Dogsong
by Gary Paulsen
Adventure
Scholastic, 1985
Summary: The story centers around the adventures of an Inuit boy named Russel who desires to experience the “old ways” of Inuit life while being trapped in a modern existence. Russel begins a relationship with a village elder named Oogruk. The old man tells Russel of how his life was before arrival of outsiders and the advent of their technology and theology. Oogruk is mystical in nature and he captures Russel’s imagination by explaining that life is explained and lived through tribal songs and he should create his own song. Russel attempts this through traveling across the land on a quest of discovery with Oogruk’s sled dog team. During this time he experiences a dream in which he discovers a past life that runs parallel to his own. In it he rescues a young, pregnant girl and defeats a Polar Bear by using traditional hunting methods and his dog team. In doing so Russel discovers his own song of life, the “Dogsong”.
Themes: This book explores traditional themes of courage and self-discovery.
Rationale for Use: Paulsen show his young readers that they should seek their own identity by examining their own personal core values.
Content Area Connections: This book is ideal for use in a Social Studies class when studying traditional Native American culture and how the Inuit’s made use of and adapted to their environment.
Possible Problems or Concerns: Some students may struggle with the blurring of reality and the dream sequences. Many young readers are very literal in their interpretation of events and will need extra help in discovering how the author is using the dream to demonstrate Russel’s quest for personal discovery. In spite of this minor concern I would highly recommend this book for use not only in the classroom but as a book that a student could read for pleasure.
~Randy Johnson
My daughter gave me two Paulson books: Voyage of the Frog and The Winter Room. Having never read his work before this year, I was quite pleased. They remind me of the type of books I read as a junior high student. I think his work is great for young people and is rich with life lessons.
ReplyDeleteI've read Gary Paulsen's books before and found them quite enjoyable. I haven't read this one though and plan on adding it to my reading list of books to read. This book could also be used to teach children that their identity's can be shaped by the past, through culture and tradition.
ReplyDeleteMy students enjoy reading Paulson. I haven't read any of his books myself, but they seem like good, interesting reads. This book in particular would be good for my classroom when reviewing the Indians.
ReplyDeleteI am always asking my student questions about their heritage. I feel that this book would be a good source to inforce how culture and traditions can impact their lives even with them knowing it. - Vera Grant
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