By Harmel Deanne Codi, JD, MBA
“Whenever you feel like criticizing anyone, just remember that all the people in this world haven’t had the advantages that you’ve had.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby.
Remember being engrossed in a tale as a child, feeling every emotion the protagonist went through, cheering for their victories, or shedding a tear for their losses? At the core of such connections lie the diverse perspectives that stories offer. Stories are not just mere tales; they are emotional journeys that help us understand the multi-faceted nature of life. Let’s dive into why stories often present these viewpoints, shaping young, empathetic minds.
Illustrating Different Walks of Life
Stories introduce children to characters from varied backgrounds, each with unique challenges, hopes, and dreams. This diversity helps children understand that the world is a melting pot of experiences.
For example, in “Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan, young readers are introduced to Esperanza’s life-changing journey from a wealthy background in Mexico to a labor camp in California. This story provides a lens into immigrant families’ challenges and sacrifices for a better life.
Enhancing Emotional Intelligence
By diving into characters’ feelings, children become attuned to emotions, both their own and those of others. This nurtures empathy, an essential trait for harmonious human interactions.
Quotation: “We read to know we are not alone.” – C.S. Lewis. Indeed, stories offer solace, make us feel seen, and help us understand others better.
Encouraging Critical Thinking
Stories often present moral dilemmas or complex situations. Navigating these requires children to weigh different perspectives and understand the reasons behind the characters’ decisions. For example: “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White presents a tale of friendship between Wilbur the pig and Charlotte the spider. When children read about Charlotte’s sacrifice for Wilbur, they’re prompted to reflect on the nuances of friendship, loyalty, and selflessness.
Highlighting Cultural and Social Differences
Stories from different parts of the world expose children to various cultural norms, social values, and ways of living. This broadens their horizons and instills a sense of respect for diversity. For instance, “The Breadwinner” by Deborah Ellis presents the life of Parvana, an 11-year-old girl in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. Through her eyes, children glimpse the harsh realities women face in certain cultures, fostering understanding and empathy.
Promoting Perspective-Taking
Stories often present events from multiple characters’ viewpoints. This narrative style encourages readers to approach different characters’ shoes, understanding events from varied angles. For example, “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio tells the story of Auggie, a boy with facial differences. The narrative is uniquely structured, offering perspectives of Auggie, his sister, and his friends. This multi-faceted storytelling encourages readers to see the world through different eyes.
In Conclusion
Stories are magic. They’re mirrors reflecting our feelings and windows showcasing worlds unknown. In teaching children to value different perspectives, we nurture empathetic beings and shape a world that thrives on understanding and unity.
References:
Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby.
Ryan, Pam Muñoz. Esperanza Rising.
Lewis, C.S. Personal reflections on the power of reading.
White, E.B. Charlotte’s Web.
Ellis, Deborah. The Breadwinner.
Palacio, R.J. Wonder.
