Bibliographic Information:
Bruchac, Joseph. The Way. Plain City: Darby Creek Publishing, 2007.
Plot Description: The book opens with Cody LeBeau lost in a fantasy – a hero who stands up and effortlessly takes out the bullies who plagues him. Unfortunately Cody spends a lot of time in that fantasy, until one day when his uncle comes to stay with Cody and his mom while preparing for a mixed martial arts tournament. In his uncle Cody finally finds a man to look up to, one who teaches him “the way” from his youthful insecurity onto the path of manhood.
Quantitative Reading Level: Lexile 850, GL 4-5
Qualitative Reading Analysis: The Way has a simple, straightforward structure – the plot unfolds chronologically and most of the language is conventional. There is moderately complex vocabulary sprinkled throughout, but Cody’s first person narration is mostly true to a high school freshman. The meaning of “the way” is perhaps the most complex aspect to this story, as it isn’t clearly defined. Cody’s uncle refers to breathing and meditation techniques that, as such, are likely unfamiliar to an adolescent, though they may be reminiscent of some tribal storytelling and heritage. Thus the meaning and knowledge demands depend on the cultural experience of the student – Anglo readers may be more challenged in this respect but no less impacted by this touching story.
Content Area: English Language Arts, Reading Literature
Content Area Standard(s):
CCSS for Reading Literature, Grade 7: 3) Analyze how particular elements of a story or drama interact (e.g., how setting shapes the characters or plot; 4) Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings.
Curriculum Suggestions: I enjoy connecting coming-of-age stories like this with reflective writing tasks, asking students to recall a time when they have had to persevere, or when they learned something profound from someone in their life. This book is also a great independent read for adolescent young men.
Supporting Digital Content: There is a series of short interview segments with Joseph Bruchac at Scholastic.com: http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/asset/joseph-bruchac-interview-bruchac-shares-where-he-gets-his-ideas
Personal Thoughts: This story does allude to school violence, when Cody learns of the schemes of two troubled classmates. This aspect of the story may be difficult for sensitive readers.
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