From: Susan Daugherty <kdaugherty>
Date: Sat, 7 Aug 1999 12:54:36 -0500

I agree with Robin and think that Steven's question is the $64,000 one. In my experience children do notice details but don't realize anything about hidden meanings. Usually I don't realize about Freudian significance either! But I think that both the children and I somehow get a feeling of depth from books with more levels than one, and that richness of experience enters into our subconscious somehow. I only know when a book thrills me, usually not why it does. I like hearing the erudite opinions of those of you with different theories about why these books speak to me, but I usually am surprised by the theories! I have always had a mysterious and unsettling feeling when I read MOON MAN to children. They are very quiet and I want to do my best to make the experience a deep one for them by reading very well. To me, there is a deep sadness about the book that I think the children feel as well. On the other hand, CRICTOR is a lot of fun, I think we just enjoy it so much because it is silly and satisfying in its happy ending. Maybe I don't want to think too much about the old lady and her huge snake!

Susan Daugherty



Susan Daugherty Librarian Franklin Elementary School Madison, WI 53505

kdaugherty at madison.k12.wi.us
Received on Sat 07 Aug 1999 12:54:36 PM CDT