Write about the connections you see in this week’s reading. Are there similarities in situations, characters, symbolism, theme, etc? These can be connections within the reading (from one section to another of the text), or connections from the text to other texts (intertextual connections), or to real world experiences and events. Regardless of what connections you are making, make sure to not only point out the connection, but also explain how the link helps you understand the text more deeply.
Book April Raintree (page 1-80)
In this week's reading, from pages 1 to 80 of the book "April Raintree", I observed several connections that helped me understand the text more deeply. These connections can be seen in various aspects, such as situations, characters, symbolism, and theme.
One significant connection I noticed is the recurring theme of identity and belonging. This theme can be seen through the experiences of the two main characters, April and Cheryl Raintree, who are Métis sisters. They struggle with their racial and cultural identities as they are faced with racism, prejudice, and discrimination throughout their lives. This theme resonates with real-world experiences of individuals who belong to marginalized communities and struggle to find a sense of belonging in a society that often imposes limitations on them.
The symbolism of flowers is another intriguing connection in the text. April and Cheryl's last name, Raintree, is derived from the beautiful purple flowers that grow on their ancestral land. These flowers symbolize resilience, growth, and the continuation of their Métis heritage. However, as the story progresses, their connection to their ancestral land is disrupted when they are taken away from their biological family and placed in foster care. This symbolizes the loss of their cultural roots and the difficulties they face in maintaining their identity.
Furthermore, the characters in the novel are connected through their shared experiences of abuse and trauma. Both April and Cheryl suffer from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, and these experiences shape their lives and their sense of self. The connection between the characters shows the devastating impact of trauma on their mental health and demonstrates the need for support and healing in order to overcome these challenges.
In addition to connections within the text, I also noticed intertextual connections. For instance, the portrayal of racism and discrimination in "April Raintree" reminded me of other literary works that explore similar themes, such as "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee and "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas. These connections with other texts helped me to understand the pervasive nature of racism and its impact on individuals and communities.
Overall, these connections in the reading not only enhance my understanding of the text but also provide valuable insights into the experiences of marginalized individuals, the significance of cultural identity, and the importance of addressing trauma and abuse. Through these connections, "April Raintree" raises important questions about social justice, equity, and the ongoing struggle for belonging and self-acceptance.