[HPforGrownups] Re: stereotyping Molly Weasley and male/female role models

[groups at e-dennis.net]

No: HPFGUIDX 85079

> Now Hermowninny:
> I believe what you both have said to be true, however, I don't think
> it's the whole truth.  I have 3 daughters, and they don't like books 
> with a female lead.
>
> I have given them countless books that showcase young girls, and they 
> simply aren't interested.  I read every book my kids do before I will 
> let them read it and even I didn't enjoy the ones with a female lead 
> as much as those with a male lead.
>
> We have even read several books where the lead characters are a duo-
> boy and girl--equal and complementary in capabilites and "screen 
> time".  Still, we all identified with (and liked) the boy more.
>
> When I discovered this, I was alarmed.  Does this point to some 
> stereotype in my mind that has been passed on to my daughters, or are 
> there just no good books out there with a female lead?
> 
>  Perhaps it's only natural for girls/women to look to boys/men to be 
> their hero.  (Please only throw fruit, no daggers!)

I think they happens when an author begins their book with the wrong goal in
mind.  Instead of, "I'm going to come up with the best possible book I can,"
they think, "I'm going to come up with a book with a female lead."

I think this is focusing on the wrong goal from the off, and I, like you,
find it shows up in some writer's work from time to time.  Instead of fruit
or daggers, might I be so bold as to throw a couple of books I enjoyed
*with* female leads, "Anne of Green Gables" and anything from the "Little
House on the Prairie" series.  Oldies but goodies. *g*

-Dennis
  Who was teased in school for reading these 'girly' books.