I do think that every kid needs to have a basic understanding of the underpinnings of our culture, so I'd be inclined to encourage everyone to read the Greek myths (including the Iliad and the Odyssey), Aesop, the bible, and at least one or two Shakespeare plays.
Gosh, I've never read any of those, though I have seen a couple Shakespeare film adaptations.
But following the same logic, I would cite Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States as a must read for anyone growing up in this country. I've read many other books that I've found enlightening, or that better explored significant areas which I find important; I've read some other books which may be just better. But I have yet to read a more comprehensive and on-point overview of US history and politics.
no subject
Gosh, I've never read any of those, though I have seen a couple Shakespeare film adaptations.
But following the same logic, I would cite Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States as a must read for anyone growing up in this country. I've read many other books that I've found enlightening, or that better explored significant areas which I find important; I've read some other books which may be just better. But I have yet to read a more comprehensive and on-point overview of US history and politics.