We hear it all the time, “The internet, video games, and recent technology are all having a negative effect on the literacy of our youth”. For years now, there have been complaints that students are not able to adapt their writing styles to meet the requirements of their audience. It is because of this that I was shocked to read an article on Wired that argued the opposite!
According to a 5-year study by Andrea Lunsford, a professor of writing and rhetoric at Stanford University, we are in the midst of a “literary revolution”. A literary revolution? Wait a second, what about all that chat and leet speak? As described by Lunsford, this is all part of it. She believes technology is pushing literacy into bold directions and at its essence, is reviving the ability for students to read and write. Young people write more than any generation that preceded them. And being that most of this communication is being done online, they almost always write for an audience. She even likened today’s “chat and discussion board” style of communication to that of the Greek tradition of argument. Amazing!
Coincidentally enough, after reading this article I learned that today is “International Literacy Day”! So I’ll give this New Age of Literacy a run for its money by combining the contemporary (this blog post, written for you, the audience) and the classic (e.g. a real life book) and celebrate International Literacy Day by giving you all a fabulous book recommendation.
As fascinating as Twitter and Facebook updates can be, one cannot deny the infinite pleasure attained from curling up with a good book. Recently, I’ve started reading about four books concurrently but the one that stands out to me the most is Markus Zusak’s I Am The Messenger.
As summarized on the back cover…
Ed Kennedy is an underage cabdriver without much of a future. He’s pathetic at playing cards, hopelessly in love with his best friend, Audrey, and utterly devoted to his coffee-drinking dog, the Doorman. His life is one of peaceful routine and incompetence until he inadvertently stops a bank robbery.
That’s when the first ace arrives in the mail.
That’s when Ed becomes the messenger.
The writing style is truly refreshing and the fact that Ed is chosen to go around town and help complete strangers (at least, so far) is absolutely touching. I’m not even halfway done (!), but that’s a good thing considering this is one of those books you don’t want to finish. And despite the fact that I have barely started reading it and am 150 pages in, I am recommending it to you all with full confidence!
How are you celebrating International Literacy Day? What book are you currently reading? Got any recommendations? Leave a comment, we wanna hear them!
Love,
C
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