Lyddie, Chapters 1 through 6

You've begun the book! What do you think so far? How has Katherine Paterson captured your attention? What do you like or not like about Lyddie as you first get to know her? Comment on any and all of these questions, or simply let us know what's on your mind as you begin your trip to 19th century New England where the Industrial Revolution begins to affect people's lives and choices.

Lyddie

Welcome to our class blog home base for your thoughts on Lyddie.

As usual, you will visit here when you complete a chapter and say what's on your mind. How did this chapter affect the way you feel about our Industrial Revolution Essential Questions? What do you think of Lyddie, and how did this chapter possibly change your mind about her?

If you want to comment on what a classmate has said about the chapter, you may do so. Otherwise, start a new conversation with your comment!

Whether a new comment or a reaction to a classmate, remember to make it meaty (approximately 200 words) and polite. And, don't forget to sign it!

Chapter 1-6

Living Alone

Social Scientist Robert Putnam is known for his book Bowling Alone, which looks at both research and suggestions about the decline of communal civic behavior. His latest research is on a similar but more incendiary topic, namely the idea that diversity in a community leads to the same sorts of communal disconnectedness.

This research will be a focal point of conversations, because Putnam is a popular author and because he is a liberal thinker who is not in sympathy with what he found in his research.

Visit Harvard's press release and the links within it to Putnam's June 2007 article as well as press reactions.