I enjoyed reading this book, although I can definitely see how it could be inappropriate for children to read. Elmer, a sissy duck, was teased and bullied by everyone, even his dad for the majority of the book. He ended up running away after hearing his dad disown him. He never once changed how he acted, ore who he was. He was always himself and was able to help make people realize that he is great in his own way. In the end, being himself was enough, and he was OK with that. I think that using the word sissy is never a good idea in children's literature, and will always cause controversy. Name calling is so prevalent in schools, they do not need to read negative words in the books they read to. I think that this book really does have the ability to reach more feminine males and help them see that they are special in their own way, and one day people will realize that.
The entire front of the book is based around things that are typically feminine. The title is in pink, glittery writing with butterflies and flowers. Elmer is wearing heart shaped sunglasses and a pink flower back pack. I think that this does help to drive the point home that being a sissy, equals being feminine. I think that it increases the likelihood of children to hold these stereotypes to be true as well. I am completely undecided about if I would read it to my own children or not, but I do not think it would be a part of my classroom library.
Stephanie -
ReplyDeleteOooo... I have not read this book, but from what read in your post this is (for real) controversial. Often times books with the label controversial, really aren't anything too offensive or surprising - but this on the other hand, WOWZA! Singling-out and drawing-attention to stereotypes in children's literature makes me a little angry. Sure the duck is smaller than the others, that does not mean we need to "poke-fun" and completely feminize him. I'm not sure what to think, but your blog made me want to read this monstrosity of a picture book.
Although I have never read this book, I think it is meant to be extremely empowering. Everyone gets teased at one time or another, however, that doesn’t make it right or acceptable but sometimes it really pushes them to get to know who they really are. Many times they are able to discover a lot about them self. On the flip side, bullying is linked to a rapidly growing children suicide rate making it a grave concern for schools and families. In this book, based on what I have read from your blog, I think it is trying to send an encouraging message to children and, in my opinion, I believe most children will see how awesome Elmer is. I would have to see the book to truly determine my acceptability of it. You had great comments. I was able to paint a nice picture and storyline in my head from them.
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