Literature Links: Part II

Book Anecdote #2

April 19—Our group said farewell to Rabat several days ago and arrived in Casablanca that same evening after spending the day in Fès.  On Friday, we began with two compelling morning sessions on Moroccan architecture and inclusive education (stay tuned for a debrief on both of these brilliant presentations).  A quick break in between sessions allowed for a coffee and tea break and glimpse out the window to see the landscape here in Casablanca.  ​

Casablanca, a view from the 16th floor of our hotel

After the second morning session, we headed for lunch with Fulbright alumni and professionals who support the program here in Morocco.  Once again, I found myself connecting with others over books.  The woman sitting across from me, E. Rose Custis, is the Public Affairs Officer for the US Consulate General of the United States.  She is based in Casablanca.  She also directs Dar America Casablanca, a cultural center with free programming.  ​​

Posing with E. Rose Custis, Public Affairs Officer for the US Consulate General Casablanca

When I told her I was an English teacher in Ann Arbor, Michigan, she instantly said, “One question:  Do you teach Octavia Butler?”  I was pleased to tell her yes, when I taught 10th grade.  Eager to continue the book conversation, I asked her what other books she believes high school students should read.  She thought for just a moment, then said, “Animal Farm, Brave New World, 1984.  The dystopia and groupthink concepts are so important for students to understand.”  Now we’re talking, I thought to myself.  Curious what other books she would want students to read, I leaned in.  “What else?  Are there other titles you think American high school students should read?” I asked.  She thought for just a moment, then said, “Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime.  The way he explains and reflects on apartheid - it is so important.”  I was beyond pleased, and (with a fair amount of pride), told her, “My World Lit students are finishing Born a Crime right now.”   I told her that students would be modeling their final assessment on Trevor Noah's style - composing chapter of their own comprised of a non-fiction opener followed by a memoir-like story.  Just as Trevor Noah raises awarness about apartheid in his chapters, they will focus on and raise awareness on an issue important to them.    Can't wait to read their final products when I return home!

In any case, the ways that literature choices and stories create connections that can span the globe has been heartening.  First at a bookstore in Rabat, now in Casablanca, it is somehow comforting to learn that the same book titles my students are reading at home in Ann Arbor also sit at the front of the bookshop in Rabat, Morocco and at the top of a Casablanca diplomat’s book recommendation list.  It makes those Pio World Lit books seem even more globally significant.

By the way, she also recommended the book The King's Fool by Mahi Binebine.  It's a story about the King's courtier, companion, storyteller, and confidante and what it is like to have that unusual job.  I couldn't hesitate to buy it on my Kindle (only $2.99.)   Can't wait to check this one out!