Ok, I admit it, I haven’t finished the book for today’s fifth grade book group (I’ll have to speed read at lunch today), but I like what I’ve read so far. Peter Pan in Scarlet by Geraldine McCaughrean is very British, and I’m sure her use of words is one thing that’s caused confusion with the kids, but it’s a fun romp. McCaughread does perpetuate stereotypes, though: there is much offensive mention of the “little redskins.” I’ll be interested to hear whether the kids in the book group picked up on that particular phraseology. And I’ll be interested to find out whether the kids enjoyed the book and understood the storyline. Update tomorrow!
Countdown:Â 12 days!!!
I have read “Peter Pan in Scarlet” and found it to be a wonderful and faithful sequel to J.M. Barrie’s classic story.
As far as the children and the use of British terms, if they have read the original Peter Pan or any book by P.L. Travers, Roald Dahl, Lynne Reid Banks, Mary Norton, Anthony Horowitz, Jo Rowling, etc., they shouldn’t have a great deal of difficulty. Scholastic even reduced the amount of Americanizing of the language in Harry Potter.
McCaughrean’s use of the words Indian and redskin do not carry the same stigma that they do in America. Explain to your students that McCaughrean’s use of ‘redskin’ is not done in a disrespectful way. It does not carry the same taboo that it would if she were an American author. Americans are sensitive to the use of those words because Native Americans are part of our culture and communities.
Point out British author Mary Hoffman’s wonderful picture book, “Amazing Grace.” In it Grace pretends to be the Indian, Hiawatha comlete with ceremonial headdress. I have many students in my class from the Mdewankanton Dakota tribe. They like seeing Grace wearing something from their culture. I do explain that in England they use words that we don’t. It is fun to discover the differences in our language and in our cultures.
It can lead to a lively and fun discussion.
There is a wonderful WEB site, http://www.storybookengland.com, where you can explore England through its children’s books and authors.
DG
Thanks, Denise – very helpful stuff here! I did tell the kids about the differences in meaning of the word “redskin,” something which I did not know before your comment, and it triggered an interesting conversation. Didn’t have time to track down “Amazing Grace,” but will take a look tomorrow…thanks!!!