Initially, when I first thought about the insider versus outsider scenario it made sense that only those who were apart of a particular group (culture) could truly understand and write on that particular group. However, after reading more and more children's literature I feel that this is not always the case. For example, one of the books that my group and I read was I believed called "Three little Rabbits" and was a counting book that dressed rabbits up like Native Americans and portrayed them in a very stereotypical manner. What was interesting was that the author had spent most her life on a reservation! She was an insider. As of right now I am still pondering the debate.
As far as our readings for class this week are concerned I have to say that the last article by Cai made the most sense to me. Although the other three were quite interesting in the fact that Shannon, Bishop, and Harris all had something to say about one another, Cai (I believe) hit the nail on the head. One particular quote that stuck in my mind is this: "To include every culture, the curriculum would not only be unmanageably large but also miss the ultimate goal of multiculturalism."
I believe that this topic/debate is extremely difficult to take sides on. During class this semester I hope we can discuss the different sides and points of view to further our insight on the topic.
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The "Three Little Rabbits" example an excellent example of my confusion. As we progress through the class, I become more and more apprehensive about the books I will include in my classroom. I completely agree that so-called "insiders" and "outsiders" can write great, accurately depicted stories. I used to assume, however, that you couldn't go wrong with choosing literature written by an "insider". But "Three Little Rabbits" goes against my assumptions. I would like to consider myself a well-rounded individual, but I will be the first to admit that I do not know everything there is to know about other cultures. I used to really enjoy the "Dear America" series, until now that is. I used to think that they depicted like as it was at the time because I did not know anything different. Turns out that these stories are outrageously inaccurate. How do I find a variety of books that are diverse, accurate, and something that the kids will enjoy reading? i may never figure it out
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