This episode includes a discussion of How to Be Normal, as well as reading recommendations including:Someone Like Me: An anthology of non-fiction by Autistic writersObernewtyn by Isobelle Carmody Little Women by Louisa May AlcottLooking for Alibrandi by Melina MarchettaThe Complete Dramatic Works by Samuel BeckettVikki WakefieldHow It Feels to Float by Helena FoxLiving on Hope Street by Demet DivarorenWhen Michael Met Mina by Randa Abdel-FattahGhost Bird by Lisa FullerThe Skin I'm In by Steph TisdellBlood Moon Bride by Demet DivarorenStill Life with Tornado by A.S. KingThe Carrier Bag Theory of Fiction by Ursula K. Le GuinAlso discussed are:The ways in which English teachers give students the frameworks to understand the people they want to be, in terms of critical thinking, feminist thought, anti-racism, etc.A defence of young adult novels as serious literature, capable of tackling complex issues like abuse, identity and resilience, in ways that resonate with students.The ways personal experiences (queerness, neurodivergence, family dynamics) can inform fiction, and shape more honest, nuanced representation.How schools can approach “dark” themes in text studies in way that is supportive, trauma-informed, and empowering.Using “normality” as a lens to interrogate social pressures and difference, and embrace diversity.How texts foster empathy, open dialogue, and give students language for experiences they may struggle to articulate otherwise.

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