Boy, as finales go, that one was a doozy, and if you're like me, you're racing for the next volume. But before you get started on that, let's see what we've gleaned from Volume 1, shall we?
1) This is the first manga style book we've read in Graphic Content. What did you think about the style and format? How does it compare to the other books we've read?
2) Barefoot Gen is semi-autobiographical. How does the author handle the subject matter? How does his experience influence the story?
3) What do you think about the art style and how it meshes with the material? What do you think about the depictions of violence?
4) How do you feel about Gen's father? If you were in his situation, would you have acted the same?
5) Gen is depicted as a mischievous prankster with a heart of gold, but is considered a juvenile delinquent by most of his neighbors. Do Gen's intentions excuse his actions?
6) How about Koji, Gen's brother who volunteers for the Navy? In an attempt to help his family, he broke his parents' hearts. However, at least by the end of the story, being away probably saved his life. What did you think about his parts of the book?
7) The story shown in Barefoot Gen is not one taught in U.S. history books. Was some of the content surprising to you? Did you learn something you'd never heard before? Why are children taught about the depravities of Nazi concentration camps but not about the physical horrors that result from the use of an atomic bomb?
8) Was dropping the bomb really the best way to win the war?
9) The Kamikaze pilots are a staple of Japan in WW2. What did you think about the story of Lt. Kumai?
10) How did you feel about the ending? There are 10 volumes of Barefoot Gen in total. Do you feel compelled to continue reading the series?
No comments:
Post a Comment