So Far From the Bamboo Grove

So Far From the Bamboo Grove
Written by: Yoko Kawashima Watkins

I choose to read So Far From the Bamboo Grove before Year of Impossible Goodbyes by Sook Nyul Choi.  I found this book to be a quick read.  I actually ended up finishing the book in 2 sittings because I had such a hard time putting it down.  I wanted to know what was going to happen next! ;)

The main character, who is often referred to as "Little One', is very well developed, and because of this she very easy to relate to.  While reading this story I felt as if I was in Little Ones shoes, and this may be due to the fact that the majority of the book is written through her P.OV.  I really enjoyed the love-hate relationship that "Little One" had with her sister, Ko.  I felt as though I was really able to connect with them because my sister and I have a similar type of relationship.  With saying that, I'm sure that other siblings that may experience this same type of relationship with one another.  This is beneficial because if a reader can find a personal connection with a story, it helps improve their comprehension and overall interest in the book.  A definite plus.

So from the sounds of it, this book is read by students typically in 5th grade (or there abouts).  If I was a middle school teacher (5/6 grade) I wouldn't be opposed to having this book read in my classroom.  Now, I think it would be a different story if the book was already implemented within the curriculum or if I was bringing it in on my own.  Regardless of the situation, I think that I would feel okay about it.  I think it also has a lot to do with your classroom dynamic, teacher experience, etc.  I would probably be feeling a little 'butterflies in the stomach'-like the first time a classroom discussion began because I'd be unaware as to what questions were going to be asked by the students.  Although I'm sure with experience my confidence level would rise.

Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book.  The story was told from an interesting view point that really expanded my current view on WWII.  My lack of knowledge of history is pathetic, however, I feel as though I understand the end of WWII a little better now that I did before.  What a great way to bring history and reading together!