Hunger Games

So I celebrated my birthday over the break and as a treat, the family got together and went to Barnes and Noble to go on a book buying spree. I just love book stores and I was eagerly browsing around (I could wander in those places for hours) when I spotted the title Hunger Games amongst the teen best sellers. I had heard my practicum students talking about it and I decided that it would be teacherly of me to pick up a copy, in order to read it and be able to better to relate to them. My plan was to deal with some teen reading, analyze it a little bit, see what could be useful from it, and then move on.

I was surprised first off by how awesome it was. I finished the book in less than a day and then promptly began eating into the next two in the trilogy. Great story idea, magnificent details, and solid writing kept pushing me onward and onward. No wonder everyone at school loved it so.

My initial point is only enhanced by the greatness of the book. Now, not only can I relate and understand what the kids are talking about, but I can genuinely agree with their love for the novel.

I think both these concepts are important. First, it is wise to be aware of what is popular amongst the youth of the world (it is a bit frightening that I am not apart of the "youth" group). The more we understand, and are able to relate, the more we can connect with the students. And in my opinion, establishing a personal relationship is the #1 most important facet in creating a classroom environment conducive to learning. It trumps all other facets; kids simply learn, respond, and behave better when there is a good relationship.

Secondly, if you dive in, you might discover something new and original.. something that you genuinely love, and are able to make a part of you and your teaching style.

I highly recommend Hunger Games and the subsequent books

Alex Rummelhart