Books for My Ninth Grade Students

My name is Tannis Deloyola and I teach Freshman English Honors at Canyon High School along with my student teacher Donbi Chung, who is currently completing her single subject credential. We are seeking funding to purchase the novel The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, to be housed in our campus library for current and future students to access. We are striving to purchase 175 copies of the book.

As a strong proponent of teaching literature related to the Holocaust, I was discouraged to find out that Elie Wiesel’s memoir Night, which I have taught for 12 years is no longer part of the 9th grade curriculum. In its place I have received District approval to teach The Book Thief. Although fictional, the novel has historical merit which allows students the opportunity to learn about the Holocaust and cultivate a sense of acceptance and empathy for diversity. Because the novel is new to our curriculum, we currently do not have more than 3 copies on our library shelves.

Each year, in collaboration with teaching Night, I encourage and facilitate student participation in Chapman University’s annual Holocaust Art and Writing Contest. I will continue to do so through teaching The Book Thief. Students will gain valuable insight into questions of social justice and oppression which provides a foundation for developing young adults who care about civil responsibility and speaking out against the abuse of power. The Book Thief provides compelling examples of people who do not adhere to the status quo in the face of injustice and who are willing to sacrifice themselves to protect marginalized and persecuted populations. Through both courses of study, students learn about holding onto their humanity during inhumane times and begin to develop their own moral compasses. We are excited about the opportunity to teach the novel with our 9th grade students.

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