Life is two things, an obstacle and a journey. These two things undoubtedly lie at the center of Linda Sue Park's A Single Shard. It is through Tree-Ear's relationships and experiences that a true portrayal of "life" is exhibited in a very meaningful and inspirational way for children. As we have read and discussed the idea of a parentless child/hero, it is through Tree-Ear's character that the idea of a hero is seen in the purest and most genuine form. While Tree-Ear does not face the same types of dilemmas and struggles of a typical twenty-first century child, the lessons he learns and the harsh realities he must accept are perfect models for children to be able to relate to.
There is no question that Tree-Ear's life has many obstacles. However, these obstacles are presented as just that- obstacles. Tree-Ear does not view setbacks or disadvantages (being an orphan, living under a bridge, having no guarantee of a meal, etc.) as barriers in the progression for a better life. Rather, Tree-Ear takes every obstacle he faces as something that can bring the smallest ounce of happiness or positive component to his life. The living conditions and lack of food are a constant battle that Tree-Ear describes but always made out to be "ok" whether because of hard work with Min or the fatherly relationship he has from/with Crane-man. The work with Min proves to be his biggest obstacle as Min is very cold and unappreciative of Tree-Ear's hard work for so long. The depiction of such obstacles to be taken as character building rather than character preventing, for lack of a better word, is the argument Park's is making about how children should handle their own obstacles and struggles. Projecting onto children the idea of a positive, mature outlook is the ideal way literature should strive to influence young readers.
The idea of life as a journey is exemplified through Tree-Ear's physical journey to Songdo along with a personal journey within. The incorporation of a young child going on a journey through children's literature is, like the presentation of universal obstacles that every child faces, something that Park's touches on successfully. Tree-Ear's journey is one not pre-destined like other heroes we have read about but one that centers of a young boy accepting an obstacle in hopes of helping others. It is through Tree-Ear's journey's that a true hero is born. Park's honest depiction of real "life" is a breath of fresh air. Of all of the books we have read so far, A Single Shard is the closest to an ideal model of lessons that children of today should look to for answers.
I really like the point you make about how, despite the much earlier time this novel is set in, how relevant it is to current readers. This is one of the great things about historical fiction for children, as it shows them that even though they have struggles, they are not alone, and indeed never have been in the past either. Book series like American Girl, and the Dear America also function this way, both as educational, though fictional representations of the past, and also as strories that young readers can relate to their own lives in the present. I know I personally was reminded of Esther Forbes’ Johnny Tremain while reading this book, as both are about parentless boys trying to break into a trade through apprenticeship. And both books are absolutely ones I would recommend to boy readers looking for someone to relate to.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your blog about Tree-Ear's journey to overcome the obstacles presented to him in the book. I was also reminded of historical fiction such as the American Girl series as well as the fact I really wanted to watch the Sword and the Stone. The idea of apprenticeship without reward from a cruel master is a very Renaissance feeling to me. I do believe Park is attempting to point out that children would do best to see things from the positive side. I do not know about other children growing up, but everything that happened to me was multiplied times ten as a way to incite drama. I feel this is in children's nature.
ReplyDeleteI like that you said that Tree-ear is mature. I think maturity is an interesting and important topic in children's literature, because with words like "maturity" we place value on age and stages of life. I agree, I do think Tree-ear is mature, and I also agree with your explanation of his maturity: he understands his circumstances are obstacles that he can overcome.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your blog. I agree that Tree ear is mature; more so than any of the other children we've read about. He doesn't complain or whine about the way his life is. Rather, he realizes that it is up to him to change things and understands that he can overcome the obstacles set forth in his life. I think he is an ideal role model for young children, especially boys. Park stresses the importance of hard work and doing the best you can with what you've got, and also that you shouldn't be afraid to go after your dreams.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree about Tree-Ear being a good role model for kids. He doesn't wait to be called - he seeks out knowledge and opportunity and he works diligently for what he wants. He is definitely a good "real-life" character.
ReplyDeleteI agree that of all the books we have read this one is the one that is closest to an ideal model of life lessons for children. Viewing life as a journey is a good point too - I like that Park wrote her book emphasizing that point and I do think that people should view life that way. I also think it is good to compare life to a journey for children more to help them understand what they want their goals in life to be.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy children books with a strong moral protagonist. Tree-ear id definitely a positive role model. He overcomes many trials and succeeds in the end. I like what you said that, "it is through Tree-Ear's character that the idea of a hero is seen in the purest and most genuine form". I agree completely.
ReplyDeleteI really like the opening line of this blog. The idea that life being an obstacle and a journey says a million words. I think this book proves that. Tree ear has embarked on this journey which changes his life; however, it wouldn't have meant the same if he had'nt encountered obstacles. These are what really challange him to grow, and growing in itself is a journey. I enjoyed reading your ideas.
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