Writers like Roz are Saving the World
And inspiring the next generation
We’ve reached the midpoint of our debate class and the gaggle of Chinese tweens for which I’m responsible have just finished a rousing debate. “All right, all right” I say with a chuckle as the debate winners finish good-naturedly taunting those they’ve defeated. I make a familiar gesture and they all turn the page of their workbooks to a fresh story written by Roz Warren, Writing Coach. The kids break a familiar smile as they start reading, they know they’re in for a good time. Roz has become legendary in this part of Shanghai, well known by the youngsters that frequent my classes.
Each semester I put together workbooks for my debate class, workbooks that always include no less than three of the latest stories written by the legendary librarian herself. As a debate teacher in Shanghai, I’m always on the hunt for excellent literature to introduce my kids to, and since English isn’t their primary language, I have the privilege of introducing them to the greats. Thanks to them having an entirely different selection of authors available to them during childhood, I look like a genius when I introduce them to Roald Dahl and Enid Blyton. I’m the trendsetter for these youngsters who are dipping their first toes into the world of English literature, and it’s a job made all the easier thanks to writers like…
