Project Mulberry

I really enjoyed reading this book. When I got between the first couple chapters- I was confused as to what the commentary was and why it was there. I didn't like it in the middle of almost every chapter. When I first read it, the commentary took me away from the story. I began focusing on what they were talking about and had to refocus when beginning the next chapter. On page 12 of Project Mulberry where Linda Sue Park 'gives permission' to skip those sections- for a brief moment I thought about doing just that, but decided to give it a whirl. I think it was nice to read the story inside of the story, but I think it would have been better placed at the end so it wouldn't interrupt the reading. I felt obligated to read the commentary because it was entered throughout the story. I enjoyed it, but think it would be better placed elsewhere.
I was impressed with the discussion of racism. It wasn't the central issue but I think it touched on it enough to create enough awareness to address the problem with a classroom for example. I also liked that the topic of racism wasn't one of the more discussed 'African American/Caucasian' issues, but 'African American/Korean', which I'm slightly embarrassed to admit that I know next to nothing about. In my education, these were not the issues that were addressed. I feel as if I've cheated myself because I haven't taken the initiative to read about these other issues. I believe this is the only book I have read that touches on this topic so it was refreshing to see this in print!

Do you see what I see?

I loved Al Capone Does My shirts, I enjoyed it more than the others we have read so far in class. I think it's a great book for a younger audience especially because it tackles a common problem without directly stating it. There is a story surrounding it which in my opinion makes it a lot easier for children to read. Maybe it is my passion for this group of people but this questioning the text paper has me all flustered. I started thinking about stereotypes in society concerning this group in particular and I got angry. Not sure at who in particular but I just do not understand how some people can be so cruel to others. I have a friend who has a disability and some of the physical characteristics that fall into that group. I look at her and see this amazing woman who has accomplished so much in her life, and someone else walking on the street may look at her and automatically form these stereotypical opinions. Society sees what they want to see and it bugs me. But on a happy note- I really did like the book :)