In case you are a skim reader we put through Speechless. If you're still with us here's why.
Hearts Unbroken is a book highly recommended by Debbie Reese who reviews books for the American Indians In Children's Literature website. Many of her reasons for liking this book are ones we brought up in discussion too. The main character and her family are positive role models and portray indigenous people living lives like they would all through America. The book brings up many of the casual racism that these characters must live through like mascots that are braves and Native Americans being asked to go back where they came from. The problem for us came in the flow of the novel. In order to make all of the author's points much of the plot line seemed forced and obvious. We would have preferred to read more about her important topics in a different format.
Three of us loved Speechless - two others more begrudgingly. They're not here so those of us that loved it will tell you why. We think this is a book that should be read by all teachers who have worked with a kid who seems angry and out of control. So probably all teachers. The main character is the cousin of this now deceased angry kid. He has nothing good to say about his cousin and has been told he will be giving a speech at the funeral. Through use of mentor-text worthy flashbacks the author shows again and again how Patrick's behaviour has disrupted every situation and person around him. Schmitt is so skillful in his character development that you don't like Patrick until around page 90 when the author starts to let you see more of the family dynamics and the opportunity lost to honestly and openly provide support for Patrick's emotional needs. We are anxious to see what other teacher's will think...
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