Questions About Shoe Dog: Young Readers Edition

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Answered Questions (2)

what's the difference between this book and black copy one?

Donna Rogers I haven't read the adult version, but as a librarian, I can tell you that young reader versions of books usually condense the *amount of* material in …moreI haven't read the adult version, but as a librarian, I can tell you that young reader versions of books usually condense the *amount of* material in the book (shorter), and also simplify vocabulary and present adult concepts in simpler terms. I've just started it, but I feel sure that in the adult version, Phil probably goes into much more detail about his backpacking trip around the world. His lengthy insights into the spiritual aspects of the different world religions would not hold a middle schooler's attention for very long, (maybe a high schoolers', though), therefore those concepts are explained pretty quickly in the young reader's version. If you want the really detailed version, I'd go with the adult one (black copy). If you're presenting the topic to a young person (middle or high school), go with the young readers' version and also be prepared to explain some of the 1960s cultural and political references to them, as I feel that the average middle schooler would not understand them without some background information.(less)

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Looking to get this book for my middle schooler. Is this written to simplistic?

Donna Rogers So far, the *text* is not too difficult for middle school readers, but many of the references to 60s culture (including the political and social clima…moreSo far, the *text* is not too difficult for middle school readers, but many of the references to 60s culture (including the political and social climate of that time period) may elude the average kid that age. I haven't read the adult version, but I have a feeling that in the young readers' version Phil quickly skimmed over his backpacking trip around the world. Many of the cultural references during the trip would probably also go over most middle schooler's heads, especially his visits to the various religious temples all over the world, and the short explanations he provides of each one's beliefs. I think there are going to be some very valuable life lessons in this book, but as a librarian, I have my doubts that the average middle schooler would stick with this book to the end. Maybe if they have an unusually intense interest in the subject matter. I think it would be a book best read with an adult who can give explanations for the cultural references. (less)

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