Books That Challenge My Emotions: A Reading Reflection
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Chapter 1: Emotionally Charged Literature
I have a collection of books that I eagerly purchased but now find myself hesitant to read. Unlike my "eventually" reading list, these titles are filled with emotional weight, promising to leave me introspective, moved, and perhaps in tears.
Section 1.1: MAUS
I believe I encountered this story during high school and appreciated the unique approach of depicting harrowing historical events through animal characters, which made it more digestible for me. After recently adding it to my Christmas wishlist—prompted by my lessons on Anne Frank and the Holocaust—I find myself unable to start it. Since having my son, my perspective has shifted dramatically. I cannot fathom the horrors of the Holocaust happening to my children, and I'm not emotionally prepared to engage with such material right now. For the time being, I will stick to reading "The Terrible Things" by Eve Bunting until my kids are older.
Subsection 1.1.1: MAUS 2
Similar to the original, I find myself equally unprepared to tackle this sequel.
Section 1.2: The Kite Runner
In college, I began reading "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini and was captivated by the cultural contrasts that reflect universal dilemmas, particularly the complex relationship between the two main characters. However, when I reached the part where a tragic event befalls Hassan, I had to put the book down. The emotional impact was too great, and I haven't mustered the will to return to it since. In its place, I've read "Persian Girls" by Nahid Rachlin.
Chapter 2: The Night Trilogy
Similarly, my experience with "The Night Trilogy" by Elie Wiesel mirrors that of MAUS. I have taught my 8th graders about the Holocaust and often refer to Wiesel's poignant Nobel Prize speech. Despite receiving this book as a gift with the intention of reading it, the memories of the harrowing tales, such as a starving son stealing bread from his father, prevent me from engaging with it, especially as a parent.
Section 2.1: The Bluest Eye
As a long-time admirer of Toni Morrison, I was excited to find "The Bluest Eye" at a local second-hand store. However, I underestimated the rawness of her narrative. After skimming a brief summary, I realized I need more time before diving into this profound and challenging work. Apologies, Toni—I promise to return to your writing in the future.
If you have any recommendations for emotionally charged books to add to my shelf, I would greatly appreciate your suggestions!