Originally Posted by HAN Frodo
I just think those aren't books to recommend to someone who just read harry potter and wants a fun read. i've read about 5 of those, and like one is actually enjoyable (animal farm). Steinbeck in particular is very interesting, but he's not what I'd call a fun read. I think thats why most people today don't enjoy reading- they were forced to read these books and don't realize that there are actually fun-to-read books out there, and simply refuse to read anything.
I think its a shame that kids are made to read these books. They really are for only a small percent of the population. There are other books school could pick out that are fun and can be analyzed, like LOTR. Introduce them to different genres, and see what they like.
I know what you're saying, because they don't contain the bullshit that JK Rowling has that keep you in a daze and from experiencing real literature...but again it's all about what you draw enjoyment from...a good plot or good writing. Obviously Harry Potter readers would rather enjoy a "good" (yet fairly simplistic) plot than good writing utilizing rhetorical tools.
I don't think its a shame that kids should read these books in school, I think its a shame that the teachers aren't teaching it properly...because I know thats the case for me. It's hard to teach appreciation for good writing when kids are used to shit like RL Steine's "Goosebumps".