[LIT] caution used re:reading suggestions for students

[Shighley at aol.com]

Chris:
You bring up many excellent points in describing your daughter's experience 
with "problem novels".   You voice concerns that are being debated more and 
more on various forums.   A very controversial book about this, Welcome to the 
Lizard Motel, by Barbara Feinberg.

http://www.educationnext.org/20054/84.html
While I don't agree with all of Feinberg's points (or the way RWW is 
represented in the review by Diane Ravitch), there are some very salient points.   
This issue has also been discussed on LMNet (school media specialists) and Child 
Lit.   It really grates on me when people asks for suggestions for books as a 
type of bibliotherapy activity.   Some kids want to learn about others with 
similar problems, others want to steer clear, and who's to say that any book can 
offer good advice to a child?

What much of this says to me is that the element of choice is very important 
for readers.
Susie
shighley at aol.com