When an author writes about something they know, readers get a first-hand glimpse into their world. Their stories become alive and contain bits of cultural aspects a reader wouldn't find in any other book. What makes the story so interesting is that it is believeable. Plus, the readers don't have to question the accuracy of what is written. In that respect, insider authors have an extremely large advantage.
On the other hand, though, outsider authors are not an entirely bad thing. For one, sometimes the group they write about is so quiet that they need a diplomat to help spread their message. Outsider authors help with that. For the most part, authors only write about unfamiliar subjects after enough research.
Personally, I think that any book is a good thing. Kids read less and less, so if they can find a couple books that interest them, whether they're written by an insider or outsider, it's a good thing. Schools, though, need to teach children enough about different cultures. That way, as children read, they can figure out "insiders" and "outsiders" all by themselves.
On the other hand, though, outsider authors are not an entirely bad thing. For one, sometimes the group they write about is so quiet that they need a diplomat to help spread their message. Outsider authors help with that. For the most part, authors only write about unfamiliar subjects after enough research.
Personally, I think that any book is a good thing. Kids read less and less, so if they can find a couple books that interest them, whether they're written by an insider or outsider, it's a good thing. Schools, though, need to teach children enough about different cultures. That way, as children read, they can figure out "insiders" and "outsiders" all by themselves.
1 comment:
Hey Michelle!
I thought it was interesting that you thought any book regardless of accurate information would be good for students to read. I believe it's the teachers job to provide accurate books but also to teach students how to differentiate between good and bad information. If we let students read books with inaccurate information about other cultures are we helping them create stereotypes? So that brings us back to the debate. Who does tell such accurate information?
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