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Mr. Coville,
I recently purchased multiple copies of your book Always October from Scholastic Book Clubs to read with my above grade level tier reading group. First, let me say that I thoroughly enjoyed the book and believe my students will as well. However, after reading Chapter 10, Spelunker, I was very conflicted at your choice of words. Quote, " That sounds dirty. Do I need to look it up on Urban Dictionary?" As an educator and mother of teenagers I was quite appalled that this reference was used. My question to you is why? Why was this reference made in a book written for this intended age? You do realize there will be young readers now inquiring on Urban Dictionary the meaning of Spelunker. I can only imagine what else they will look up once they realize the true intention of the Urban Dictionary. I stand very conflicted as to whether or not to use this book with my students. Please help me understand why this was included?
Thank you,
Jennifer Potthoff
I recently purchased multiple copies of your book Always October from Scholastic Book Clubs to read with my above grade level tier reading group. First, let me say that I thoroughly enjoyed the book and believe my students will as well. However, after reading Chapter 10, Spelunker, I was very conflicted at your choice of words. Quote, " That sounds dirty. Do I need to look it up on Urban Dictionary?" As an educator and mother of teenagers I was quite appalled that this reference was used. My question to you is why? Why was this reference made in a book written for this intended age? You do realize there will be young readers now inquiring on Urban Dictionary the meaning of Spelunker. I can only imagine what else they will look up once they realize the true intention of the Urban Dictionary. I stand very conflicted as to whether or not to use this book with my students. Please help me understand why this was included?
Thank you,
Jennifer Potthoff
Reply by Bruce Coville
Dear Jennifer Potthoff -
You are right.
That is the most clear and direct response I can offer.
I have often pushed boundaries, but despite numerous protests, in my mind I had never gone beyond where I thought kids really were. In this case, I fear I did. When I wrote that line it seemed funny. Actually, I still think it is funny, but in retrospect I see the problem, and realize that I should have struck it.
In answer to your question "Why was this included?" I can only say it was a mistake on my part, and I apologize.
Sincerely,
Bruce Coville
You are right.
That is the most clear and direct response I can offer.
I have often pushed boundaries, but despite numerous protests, in my mind I had never gone beyond where I thought kids really were. In this case, I fear I did. When I wrote that line it seemed funny. Actually, I still think it is funny, but in retrospect I see the problem, and realize that I should have struck it.
In answer to your question "Why was this included?" I can only say it was a mistake on my part, and I apologize.
Sincerely,
Bruce Coville