Peck's questions

Peck's questions.

l. What would the story be like if the main character were of the opposite sex?

(helps diffuse sexual polarizations and stereotyping) By using these questions a reader is able to see different perspectives, and stereotypes. It shows the reader how using a particular gender changes the story.  Stereotypes make males more dominant while females are portrayed to be submissive and proper.  Changing the sex of the character will change the whole dynamics of the story.  2. Why is the story set where it is? (Not where is the story set?)

(points out setting as an author's device) The author’s use of a particular setting is to create a visual of a specific place or time.  It helps build the tone and mood for the story.  For example, a story in Florida (sunny, happy, relaxation) compared to a story set in New York (busy, fast-paced) or in the Woods (isolated, dark, scary) the mood and expectation of the reader changes.

3. If you were to film the story, would you use black and white or color and WHY?

(consideration of tone) As readers we tend to picture the story in our heads due to the time frame and year the story takes place.   I imagine a story from the 1900 to be sepia tone with minimal, simple graphics.   While a story set in the future would include futuristic elements and an abundance of color, illustrations and movement.  4. If you could not use all of the characters, which would you eliminate and WHY? (characters which add texture vs. simplification for media translation) Depending on the role of the character would determine how the story would change. For example eliminating a main character would change the whole aspect of the story line but if you eliminate a trivial character the story will not change much. The main character is the center of the story everything revolves them.  5. How is the main character different from you?

(reader can identify without being like the main character) As a reader I usually try to connect with the characters and think about what I would do in the same situation.  Since we have grown up with different backgrounds, religion, socioeconomic status, the way we live, our values, decisions and actions would be different as well.  I can place myself in the character’s shoes and view the conflict through an author eyes. Although we may be different we can still identify with the character in a story. 6. Would this story make a good TV series? Why/not?

(ending focus and sequential nature of chapters) One thing that is always on my mind when I read a good book is, “this would make an interesting movie”.  The only problem is sometimes the movie cannot express what the author was trying to say.  Producers use creative expression to change the story’s ending or meaning, which in turn changes your perception.   Sometimes movies lack the depth of the character and storyline.  Since reader’s create a visual in their minds it is difficult to compare a book to a movie which shows the point of view of the creator not the reader’s image.  7. What one thing in the story has happened to you?(anecdotal response of recognition) Good readers make connections with the characters in a story. They try to find the connection and similarities between themselves and the characters.  Readers will sometimes begin to empathize with the characters, revel in their victories, hurt in their losses, regret decisions or even think about the advice they would give the character. 8. Reread the first paragraph of Chapter 1. What is in it to make you read on? If nothing, why did you continue to read? Authors provide a hook to leave you with a question about what will happen next. The conflict between the character may be something the reader has in common and may want to know how it was resolved. Authors use techniques does not provide definite answers, or only provides tidbits to engage our curiosity and makes us want to continue reading.

. 9 If you had to design a new cover for the book, what would it look like?(deceptive packaging and consumerism) '. When asking myself the question of changing the cover of a book some things I look at is what is the book trying to say.  I have come across book covers that make me think why would the author use that it.  Although we are told not to judge a book by its cover, that is the first thing we do.  The cover is what draws us in, and sets the mood for the entire story. Book covers are designed with the targeted population in mind.  For example a kids book would include bright colors, large print, graphics and words.  While a young adult book would depict a young teen with muted graphics and colors, depending on the subject.  The cover acts like a billboard to catch your attention.

 10. What does the title tell you about the book? Does it tell the truth?(titles as narrative hooks vs. symbolic titles) The title of the book usually gives you an idea of what the book is going to be about.  It can also be a symbol of what the author wants you to believe it is about.  The title may also help make your own impression of what the story is about. Titles can be very deceptive and may not match the story.