Sandra Catchings
asked:
I am very upset that this book is on a list as appropriate for 14 year old 8th graders. Because it is , my son is being forced to read it by his school. My family is deeply effected by this book. My son is in emotional upheaval and very depressed. This book should not be listed as appropriate for this age group. It should be read at the high school level and up- and be lsited as so. How could a book like this end up ?
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John
Wiesel was younger than your son when he experienced Night. Think about that. Of course, part of education, perhaps the most important part, is learning about and confronting history. Hiding from it is not healthy. Wiesel's language is plain and clear, written in a way that allows students, even middle schoolers, to read and understand. I would applaud the school and the teacher for leading students through such an important text. If you are worried about your son reading the book, I think it is appropriate to ask the teacher questions about how they are teaching it and how they are prepared to deal with emotional trauma students might experience reading it. I would not challenge their choice to teach it.
Robert Haile
My grandfather was 13 when he escaped a Russian Jewish slum, traveled all the way through Europe, left France as a “cabin boy� in the French navy where he was whipped, and jumped ship in Australia forging a life for himself and his family. He lived it. I think your son can read about it.
Sandra
Night couldn't possibly be more appropriate for eighth graders, not only because the author was 14 when these events transpired in his life, but also because it's a formative time for children to learn about what can happen when we are silent or complacent to injustice. If your son was in emotional upheaval over Night, it'd probably be a good time to talk to him about that, and what needs to be done to prevent tragedies like it from happening again.
But seriously; it's standard for schools to start teaching about the Holocaust beginning in sixth grade. Maybe it's time to discuss it as a family.
But seriously; it's standard for schools to start teaching about the Holocaust beginning in sixth grade. Maybe it's time to discuss it as a family.
Sandra Louden
Instead of just reading about this horror, there were children MUCH YOUNGER THAN 8th graders who LIVED THROUGH IT. If your son is so "deeply effected" (I think you meant "deeply AFFECTED") by it, that emotion is a positive thing, not a negative one. Grow up, woman. According to your timeline of 3 years ago, your son is now a junior in high school---I hope you haven't suffocated & protected him so much that he's frightened to leave you every morning to go to school. This book is MOST APPROPRIATE for "14 year olds" & yes, woman, he should be "forced" to read such a book--and many others like it. I cannot believe you wrote such a smothering post. You are the one hampering him--shame on you.
Kara
I am 12 and I've read books like this and I've been able to handle it. If your 14 year old son can't handle this book then he needs to grow up a bit. The author wrote this book as a way to share his story, I'm sure it was hard for him to do so, I've been through a lot of things and I don't like looking back at them. I'm sure it's written in a way to understand. I haven't read this book yet but its on my long list that keeps going.
Reece LeResche
Are you joking?
Toni Criscuolo
I read it as a high school sophomore and had a very similar strong emotional reaction to it but not depression. Rather, through discussions with parents (even 2 years later) about sensitivity to the suffering of others and dedication to challenging hatred in our daily lives gives a child the opportunity to overcome the feelings of despair and a devotion to living a worthy life. Don't be afraid to talk with him.
PS-- I, too, might select this for an 8th grader and I am a high school history teacher.
PS-- I, too, might select this for an 8th grader and I am a high school history teacher.
Elisabeth Hall
That feeling your son is having is called empathy! It's not a bad thing, and 8th grade is a great age for this book.
Talia Hadad Wilson
8th graders are the PERFECT age to read this book.
While the content of it may be disturbing - it should be.
Why hide it from them? If it was my class, I'd be sure to build up to the novel, let them know it is disturbing, as it should be. Allow them to feel what they feel. In essence, I think that is the purpose of this novel. If he wasn't disturbed, he couldn't have understood. Revel in the fact that he had an emotional response.
While the content of it may be disturbing - it should be.
Why hide it from them? If it was my class, I'd be sure to build up to the novel, let them know it is disturbing, as it should be. Allow them to feel what they feel. In essence, I think that is the purpose of this novel. If he wasn't disturbed, he couldn't have understood. Revel in the fact that he had an emotional response.
Sophie Tanen
This is so ignorant. As a Jewish girl, I read this book when I was in fifth grade. Yes, when I was 10. The Holocaust was just as horrible for children as if was for adults, they went though it. Children now can read it, and learn. I think it's great that it's being taught in middle school, I sought it out for myself.
Petra in Queenstown
We do not live in a Disney world. It is an appropriate reaction for your son to be deeply affected and depressed about the book. It might inform his nascent philosophy of life. If he is clinically depressed, it's not caused by a book.
Ashley Strang
I was 12 when my 7th grade English teacher ('05-'06) assigned Night for us to read. She gave us the option to request a new book if Night made us too uncomfortable. I remember feeling shocked, disgusted, and horrified after only a handful of pages, but I couldn't put it down. Honestly, I'm so glad I kept going. The depth of emotion, the conversations started because of it... it was so worth the read. Preteens shouldn't be "protected" from Night. I feel it's a necessary stepping stone on the path to well-rounded emotional development.
N
It really depends on what school district the book is assigned in. I teach for NYCDOE, and since its the largest school district in the USA, the curriculums and guidelines differ from district to district, or even school to school. I've been an English teacher for 10 years, and I first taught "Night" to middle schoolers, which at the time, I thought would be too difficult for them. However, there were Holocaust themed movies that were used as a companion to visualize the Holocaust such as "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" and "The Devil's Arithmetic" which had graphic scenes of violence and Antisemitism. I now teach 10th grade, and many of the kids have read "Night" in 8th or 9th grade. So I think the book is appropriate from 13+. Now as a someone who is personally triggered by memories of a challenging past- I can see how the memoir can upset the reader. However, as far as removing the memoir as required reading? No, absolutely not.
Pat W Coffey
The age appropriateness of. this book really lies in the balance of what children see on television, on video games, behind the school before and after class. In some parts of the country, where 14yr olds are part of the Junior structure they are exposed to more.
When a child becomes impacted by a book, the parents should read the book and discuss it with them. We cannot dismiss the pass when we see signs of its ugliness appear in the present.
When a child becomes impacted by a book, the parents should read the book and discuss it with them. We cannot dismiss the pass when we see signs of its ugliness appear in the present.
Lindy Lee
I can understand your concern and frustration with your child reading a book like this, especially if they are a more sensitive type. If your child is becoming upset by the content, it is best to advocate for them at the school. Perhaps there is a solution there for you all.
It is not unusual for kids your child's age to read on the topic of the Holocaust. But should be thoroughly discussed in stages with an adult that is prepared to answer questions of concern from the students/child. I was first introduced to Anne Frank's diary in the 4th grade through school. We started discussing in detail in class some of the horrible things that happened. I only mention this to show that it is not outside the norm for this topic to be introduced at your child's age. But I can empathize with you if you have a more sensitive or empathic child and I hope that you were able to resolve the issue.
It is not unusual for kids your child's age to read on the topic of the Holocaust. But should be thoroughly discussed in stages with an adult that is prepared to answer questions of concern from the students/child. I was first introduced to Anne Frank's diary in the 4th grade through school. We started discussing in detail in class some of the horrible things that happened. I only mention this to show that it is not outside the norm for this topic to be introduced at your child's age. But I can empathize with you if you have a more sensitive or empathic child and I hope that you were able to resolve the issue.
Hailey Futrell
I am not trying to be rude, but this is kinda tone deaf. History is uncomfortable. It's not here to make you feel good, it's the reality. And yeah, I bet your son is depressed from reading this book, but why don't you talk to him about how people his age felt living it. Children in 8th grade are old enough to read this book because you know what, children that age were old enough to live it. I get it, it makes you upset, but I'm pretty sure in the grand scheme of history you being upset by the Holocaust is next to nothing of the feelings of people who lived it.
Anon Ymous
oh come on, im only 1 year older than your son, tell him not to be such a weakling
TCampbell
I see images of morons wearing Camp Auchwitz shirts on TV, like it's some big joke, and I can't help but think we've done a poor job of teaching the Holocaust in school in the past. Reading true stories of what happened in Nazi Germany in one's formative years is a good way to develop empathy in our younger generation. I read Anne Frank in the 7th grade. Before that, I had no idea what the Holocaust was.
Patrick
Learning to process and understand strong emotions is one of the most important things we learn in our lifetime. I began reading similar books when I was eleven years old, and I can tell you right now that in terms of being prepared to read this book, there is no age where it will be easier. Whether you are fourteen, fifteen, or fifty, this is a subject that will cause the same reactions in almost everyone.
I can say that understanding history at a young age is far more important than shielding the young from difficult emotions. Our formative years are incredibly important in developing a sense of empathy, and strong morals and principals. If we do not allow future generations to see true history, both beautiful and awful, then we doom them to repeat it.
I can say that understanding history at a young age is far more important than shielding the young from difficult emotions. Our formative years are incredibly important in developing a sense of empathy, and strong morals and principals. If we do not allow future generations to see true history, both beautiful and awful, then we doom them to repeat it.
May
I read this in 8th grade, and I wasn't fully happy with my life at the time. But I LOVED this book. I literally couldn't put it down. The history and the story made me feel so inspired to do something great, and help others. This book pulled me out of my "sad" stage and brought me into my happy life. I would have to say that each middle schooler should read this at some point in their life because I really helped me see all the great things that I have.
Nathaniel Sturtz
Look at to kill a mocking bird. I read this book in high school and now there is a huge pro-nazi movement at my school.
Holli
14 should be high school. A freshman in high school. If your kid is affected then thank God he is or something is wrong with him. Why do we still call 20 yr olds "kids"? Let him grow up to be a man.
Sketchbook
Sandra, if you think this book is not appro for your kid, I would suggest that you are not a good parent. "An Unappropriate Parent." That's the title.
Ruby Trainor
I'm in 8th grade and I read it for school as well. It is upsetting at times but is very eye-opening. I'm very glad to have read it, and I liked reading a Holocaust book that didn't sugarcoat anything. A 14 year old should be able to handle it, and if not than reading it would definitely open their eyes to the real world
Hannah Farley
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Hale
This is hella late, but you're basically saying that only college age students should learn about World War 2. The Nazis did terrible things. People need to learn about it because if they don't, National Socialism will return. Hell, I have fascists in my school because people like you are snowflakes and don't want their children learning that bad people do bad things to innocenpt people.
Stephanie Rivas
I read this book when I was 11 and although it is difficult to read I think it is necessary to ensure these atrocities do not occur again. It reveal the ugly truth of man's power for destruction.
Austin Howell
My school had us read this in 10th grade, but I did a lot of research in 6th grade when I learned about the Holocaust. I found it very interesting and I think this is a great book to read in 8th grade, and honestly, 8th graders should read this book its an extremely good book. Plus Elie was young when we experienced this. Just think about how good of a book this is for learning about the Holocaust, It's my favorite Holocaust book and I wish I read it in 8th grade.
Marjorie Vizethann
I have taught this book for years to 8th graders. I do not agree with you. They enjoy the book very much.
Ian Koetting
You complain of your son having to deal with reading the account of someone the same age as him. Get some perspective. I am sure if Elie would have just read about it he would have.
Bernadette
I read this book at a younger age. it is my favorite book. maybe have a chat with him about it and help him through it. it is a very important read and maybe you should read it again as well to fully understand its importance.
Judy
Let your son feel the depression. It will help him understand the tragedy that should never be repeated. It will help with character. It is history that makes us human. History should be taught sooner in our schools. Over-protecting our children sets them up for failure.
If you haven't read it; perhaps you should.
If you haven't read it; perhaps you should.
Nikki
I agree. It is very emotional and difficult to think about. I wonder if there are other books that also allow students to tackle the horrors of this time in history but that also offer a redemptive hope, say The Hiding Place by Corie TenBoom. As an adult, I can understand Elie's rejection of God, his placing direct blame on God. For teens it may instead chip away at their faith and hope and understanding of one of life's most deepest questions: how can a good God allow such evil. Not sure my child's 8th grade teacher will be dissecting that one at school...but I know I sure will with my own kids at home. (also have an 8th grader reading this)
skidaddle skidoodle give me some noodles
It was terrifying to read as a 12-year-old 7th grader but I think it's vital to not hide from history and instead face it so we can learn from our past mistakes. I sympathize with your son, it was a very depressing book, but it's an important book. I'm glad that he's being forced to read it. Would you say the same things about The Diary of Anne Frank? Just food for thought.
Patricia
whew, the ignorance LEAPT out of this comment.
Darth Daimyo
Wow, are you kidding?!
Neptune
Ask your son if he remembers the book. If he does, how does he feel about reading it?
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