Melody: Story of a Nude Dancer

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Melody: Story of a Nude Dancer

Written by: Sylvie Rancourt

First line: This isn't the beginning and it's not the end, but somewhere in the middle with Melody getting started on stage.

Why you should read this book: A cult classic never before available in English, these collected comics are considered the first autobiographical Canadian graphic novel. Melody is young, pretty, headstrong, and without any marketable skills, so when her lying, stealing, cheating, drug-dealing, thief, loser boyfriend decides she should dance naked to support both of them, she cheerfully goes along. It's a slice-of-life story with no true beginning or end, just a series of vignettes about the adventures of an optimistic girl who keeps trying to do the right thing.

Why you shouldn't read this book: Despite the vast quantities of sex and nudity, it's not an especially sexy book.

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You can learn more about children's books at the American Library Association website. Your public library is a great place to introduce your children to books. They will have special programs and incentives for kids of all ages to love reading. In most systems children are entitled to their own library cards from the time they are old enough to write their own names. It's a great way to teach responsibility as well as foster a lifelong love of learning and books.

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Dragon's Library

Wednesday, February 17, 2016