When did we start teaching children that a character has to look like them to be relatable? I was never taught to read only books by people who look like me with characters who look like me. 1/ https://twitter.com/davidobowles/status/1333797442823733255

I read the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass and it had me sobbing, even though I’m not Black. I was entranced by Bridge of Tears by Usagi Yojimbo but I’m not Japanese. Reading isn’t about finding yourself, it’s about seeing through the eyes of someone else. 2/

Even more, reading teaches us that no matter how different we are on the outside, we are all human and have a LOT more in common than we think. That we all share the depth and complexities of emotion, that we all share many of the same fears. Reading allows us to connect. 3/

To use the excuse “Well the classics don’t have anyone from my background!” is absurd. Do you think I have more in common with Homer than you?!? That I have more in common with Jane Austin or Mark Twain? I’m just as much a stranger to them! 4/

The point is, while reading the classics I am able to leave my own perspective and see the world through someone’s eyes and maybe realize that MY perspective isn’t all there is. I also learn that humanity hasn’t really changed at all. This IS valuable. 5/

Let’s not teach children that it is impossible to relate to another human simply because they don’t look the same on the outside. That’s the beginning of racism and prejudice and not a lesson any of us want to continue.

End.