According to Jacques Lacan the way we define The Other is to a large extend linked to the way we conceive, even define ourselves. As adults we might be able to talk about this for hours and maybe, if on a good day, throw in a bit of constructive self criticism. However, try explaining that to a class of 7 year old children... How can we explain and help them internalise something we ourselves struggle to grasp? The answer is literature for children. Throughout the years I have read amazing stories that help young children come to terms with The Other, The Alien, The Stranger, meet them and accept them in a way we are not even capable of. What follows is a list of books I use in my classes to introduce tolerance to difference. It is also a list of books I have come to love.
- The Sneetches by Dr. Seuss
A lovely story about a society that did not care for difference.
- The Way Back Home by Oliver Jeffers
What happens when two complete strangers end up in a tight spot far away from home?
Visit the official Oliver Jeffers site:
- The Butter Battle Book by Dr.Seuss
A story about two societies that are as different as they are the same.
- It is OK to be Different by Todd Parr
Visit the official Todd Parr site:
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