I enjoyed reading Linda Sue Park’s A Single Shard because it was a different read than the other books we have studied this semester. Tree-ear is the first male protagonist we have had since we left High Fantasy. I found this book interesting because it was very Eastern to me. I think the Eastern cultures emphasize values and behavior in their developmental years more than we do in America. Even though this book was set in 12th century Korea the life lessons were still applicable.
This book was easier to read for me because there was more development of the characters. I felt like I got to really know Tree-ear and grow with him. Despite Tree-ears struggles he was always able to maintain a positive attitude and look forward. He did not let obstacles set him back. Additionally, the relationship between Tree-ear and Crane-man strengthened the emotional connection in the novel. They form a beautiful friendship and Tree-ear’s growth is partially defined by this relationship.
Throughout Tree-ear’s journey both externally and internally, Park leads the reader with him. I would recommend this novel for children because I think it teaches us about life in a very simplistic manner. Today kids are so bombarded with movies and tv and fantasy and everything is always getting “bigger and better”. I like the slow pace of this book for that reason. To remind children that life itself is a journey and it is what you make of it as an individual and that will never change.
I really enjoyed this book too! I liked the depth of the characters because it allowed me to create a connection with them. I think this book teaches kids great lessons in a much simpler form than in high fantasy novels.
ReplyDeleteYeah I definitely enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. I think that more people might connect with Tree-Ear because he isn't one of those characters who just has some sort of talent magically without any effort. He has to learn and grow and make mistakes just like the rest of the real world.
ReplyDeleteThe book was much different than I expected. It was far more enjoyable than I ever imagined. Tree-ear learned from Crane-man I think many children could learn from his example. We learn about patience and to never give up, both are great lessons for children.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your post! Especially about tree-ear being optimistic. I think that is a great lesson that every kid needs to learn, especially as time gets by because it seems like we continue to take things for granted (especially in this country) and because of that we tend to have a pessimistic view of life.
ReplyDeleteThe slow pace was definitely nice to read. Even though it was slow paced, there were aspects of action and emotion, it wasn't just a boring story that goes along an everyday experience. The message is still profound, but done in a way that does not overwhelm the reader by unnecessary details.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed this book as well. However, I found it more to be focused on an American aspect rather than the Korean. Altough, Tree- ear was Korean I felt myself feeling like I was reading a story about the American dream. I understand your theory of indivudial growing and completely agree. I just found it strange how this young boy was able to change his stars in a Korean book, without adapting the American dream
ReplyDeleteI also enjoy A Single Shard's straightforward messages. Park gives the main characters unlucky circumstances and the most wise, selfless, good qualities. I enjoy Crain-man so much. The lessons he teaches and the way he cares for Tree-ear moved me from the beginning of the novel. Park shows how these qualities cold do well for even the most under privaleged people gives the book an unclouded message unlike those presented in high-fantasy books which involve heros with both positive and negative character traits.
ReplyDeleteI think you make a good point in examining Tree Ear and Crane Man's relationship. I felt as though Crane Man was somewhat of a mentor to him. Once he is gone, Tree Ear only has the advices and wisdom Crane Man imparted on him in the past. Also, tying the Eastern culture into the book is a great move on Parks's part for teaching children because it too is slow and based on "patience" a lot of the time.
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