4Real Forums: The Scarlet Letter for an 8th grader?

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Topic: The Scarlet Letter for an 8th grader?

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Martha in VA
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Posted: Jan 25 2010 at 12:57pm \| IP Logged

My 8th grade daughter is asking to read this. I remember reading it in highschool but don't remember specifics. I don't have a copy around to skim through. Would this be suitable for a middle school girl?

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stellamaris
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Posted: Jan 25 2010 at 1:07pm \| IP Logged

I myself would wait until a little older for this book. It deals with infidelity, self-destructive guilt, and betrayal of the vows of the clergy. The corrosive effect of revenge and unconfessed sin are shown, as are the healing effects of love, selflessness, and humility. Altogether a serious, intense novel that deals with adult themes. Even if your 8th grade student could read it, I don't think she would either understand or appreciate this book. Save it for later, imho.

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LeeAnn
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Posted: Jan 25 2010 at 1:23pm \| IP Logged

I agree with Caroline; wait on it. I read it in high school, 11th grade if I remember correctly, for American Literature. Maybe a different Hawthorne book would do?

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Erin
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Posted: Jan 25 2010 at 2:43pm \| IP Logged

I'd agree with at least 11th grade. I skimmed through it recently, some heavy issues.

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guitarnan
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Posted: Jan 25 2010 at 2:48pm \| IP Logged

I've seen this book assigned to 8th graders, too.

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Martha in VA
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Posted: Jan 25 2010 at 2:53pm \| IP Logged

Thanks, everyone. We'll be waiting! ;)

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