This novel is ripe for analysis and discussion and students should be encouraged to engage deeply with the material while constantly connecting it to their own experiences and knowledge of history.
The instructor should be aware of some of the more adult themes and topics addressed in the novel to be sure that students are prepared and handle discussions with maturity. First, there is significant violence. While the classroom should be a brave space for students to explore difficult concepts, the instructor should be mindful of students for whom it may be overwhelming or traumatic because of their own experiences. Second, sex and sexuality are an important part of the novel, not only...