For the next twelve months we not only challenge
the Governor’s Academy community to read outside of their regular work, but to
read more diversely. Why is it important to find the time for books when our
schedules feel full, and much of our days are spent “reading” texts, emails,
memes, articles, etc.? Besides the unique enjoyment of losing yourself in a
good book, studies have shown that deep reading actually improves brain
function (don’t believe me: see
this ), and can even increase our ability to
empathize (see this…). This Washington
Post article also points to a number
of studies done recently that link reading fiction to empathy and social
awareness. So read for the pleasure of it, but hopefully reap the benefits of
improving your brain and your understanding of others.
A quick reminder of the Pesky Diversity Reading
Challenge: we have broken the year down into four categories--one for each
season. The spring challenge is to read books with a character from the LGBTQIA
community. If you’re not sure where to start, there is a display of amazing
books in the lobby of the library, a list on
our website, and lots of resources
online. Here are a few books that I have enjoyed recently that fit this
category:
Juliet Takes a Breath by Gabby Rivera
A slightly fictionalized version of the author’s
life, Juliet Takes a Breath tells the story of a Puerto Rican 19 year
old lesbian trying to find herself. She spends the summer in Portland,
Oregon interning for a crunchy-feely feminist author, and the experience
challenges her and gives her new strength in interesting ways. Along the way
she also deals with many typical teenage issues: love, fashion, family and her
hair. Rivera writes with no fear, and as a result Juliet’s voice is real and
fun.
Noteworthy by
Riley Redgate
Jordan Sun attends a private boarding school for
the performing arts. With an unusually deep voice for a girl (Alto 2) she
struggles to find a place to perform and shine until the all-boys a Capella
group needs a new tenor. Noteworthy does an excellent job of examining
gender and stereotypes within a compelling narrative. Jordan is also exploring
her own sexuality which sets up an interesting dichotomy.
The Maze at Windemere by Gregory Blake Smith
The Maze at Windemere takes a house in Newport, RI and examines 5 separate time periods
that revolve around it. Some sections and literary devices employed are more
successful than others, but overall an enjoyable read. One section of the book
(1896) follows the intrigues of a closeted gay gentleman hoping to marry into
high society and be set for life. Smith does an excellent job setting up each
time period, and this story and its characters feel very authentic--a window
into LGBT treatment in a historical context.
