Chinese Cinderella

The importance of literature have been acknowledged for centuries, however, reading is dying in today’s society and it is not helpful that media is beginning to take over our daily lives. The literacy rates in the United States are declining resulting in a drawback. Contrary to the rising belief that reading is no longer as useful as it once was, it continues to show great use in our lives. Reading engages one’s mind in a different way than any other type of media. It helps one develop greater emotions and learn valuable lessons. Literature has the ability to immerse your mind into a new world. The lack of visuals forces one’s imagination, creating one’s own unique story experience. Although some books contain pictures, one is left with an abundant amount of details to test one’s imagination. Andrew Solomon states, “If you read nothing, then your mind withers, and you lose your ideals.” Not only does reading test one’s imagination,

People are often more distant with characters in media due to the amount of background knowledge one possess of the characters. While reading Chinese Cinderella, I developed a deeper connection with Adeline as a result of knowing the conditions she grew up in and I began to feel a greater emotional pain for her while she was struggling. One of the lines in the story says, “‘...Who do you think you are? Showing off week after week!’ Big Sister cried as she slapped me with her strong right hand.” (pg. 15) When reading this line, you could feel the stinging pain five year-old Adeline felt after her sister sent a striking blow to her cheek and the despair growing inside the little girl. I began to understand that she grew up relationships that are not typical in today’s life. This is important because one can reflect these understandings upon one’s own life and make sense of the world around