Written by: Babette Cole
I can see why some may feel this book is controversial; however, I would have absolutely no problem having this book available for my students to read. Perhaps my opinion comes from the fact that I, myself, have parents who are divorced. I feel that this book really dumbs down the very real and difficult events that take place when divorce occurs in families. Oddly, while reading this picture book, I frequently found myself smiling. The author, Cole, does a nice job of allowing the reader to see the situation at hand through the children's perspective. This perspective was once seen through my eyes and, similarly to the children in this book, I was relieved when the actual divorce occurred. Divorce is often viewed upon as a very negative event. Some say that divorce is not okay, it shows a lack of commitment, laziness, stubbornness... the list goes on and on. The Un-Wedding sends a message to its audience that it is okay for parents to get divorced and it's not their children's fault. This is a wonderful message to send out to students because more and more families are splitting (for lack of a better word) due to divorce. Even though divorce is common in our society, subtle messages do get sent out about what is the 'norm'. For example, just within the past few days I have been asked, "How was your past weekend at your parent's house?" My parent's don't live in the same town more or less the same home. I feel like comments, questions, etc. are constantly being said/asked/discussed around me and I always feel like I have to step in and inform them of my "un-norm" situation in order for them to adjust their word usage. So, after all that being said :), this book may be a breath of fresh air for students to read or hear. It may really relate to those children who have gone through the process of divorce and they may find comfort while reading this. Others, who may be uncomfortable with the topic of divorce may find this book appalling; while others may be able to connect with this book and perhaps let out some feelings that are not easy to discuss.
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