This is about the fourth time for me to read The Deerslayer by James Fenimore Cooper. And this is the third time for me to teach my junior high students through this book. For sure, junior high kids of today are not prone to plow through 500 plus pages of Cooper's labored prose. He is worth the effort. The Deerslayer, that is, the character Natty Bumpo, is the epitome of the frontier hero, a man of honor, a knight, and a Christian gentleman. The true gist of the story is the definition of true manhood. I need the lessons myself and am certain that my students do as well.
I am also reading The Mormonizing of America by Stephen Mansfield. The Mormon movement is a very powerful force in America. I hope that it is a more powerful force after November 6. But with all of the appreciation due for the work ethic and general morality of the members of the Church of Latter Day Saints, we need to understand their history and beliefs. These are not mere Christians with a few quirks.
I have also recently started Faulkner and Hemingway: Biography of a Literary Rivalry by Joseph Fruscione. I love the works and styles of both writers. In the subtle feud that existed between the two, I would have bet my money on Hemingway if the matter were to be settled with fists. If they were in a drinking contest, who knows? As far as the depth and durability of the writings, I think Faulkner has the upper hand. Nevertheless, I am quite interested in delving further into this study.
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