Reading Response "And Tango Makes Three"

     This assignment required me to choose a book mentioned in this week’s reading of Joys of Children’s Literature by Denise Johnson.  The reading discussed multicultural literature and the diverse perspectives found in it.  I chose to read And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell because it was listed under the perspectives for alternate family structures, which is a topic I find both pertinent and interesting in regards to the shape of education today.

 My Response:

     I was really surprised when I found the book and began reading; given the title I expected a book about adoption.  I guess it is about adoption in a sense, but it really represents same-sex parents, which is becoming more common in our society.  I found the story to be enjoyable and it did a great job of paralleling same-sex parents to traditional parents.  I had never really thought much about it, but after reading this story I have found myself examining where I stand and what I have experienced.  Personally, I find no reasons to be against gay or lesbians couples; my opinion is that everyone should be able to be with the person that makes them happy and supports their needs.  I have witnessed several instances of harassment in regards to this topic, which I believe are based in religion and/or fear of something different.  I guess I understand why some people are so outwardly against it, but I believe those people need to take time and understand that different does not mean bad.  The story of Tango is a true story that occurred in the Central Park Zoo and illustrates the fact that even animals want a mate that feels right to them.  This story drew direct correlations to how each of the penguin families interacted together, including Roy and Silos with their daughter.  Just like the male/female partners, Roy and Silos successfully raise Tango to be well adapted and teach her all the same skills that other penguins learn as she becomes a contributing member of the penguin society at the zoo,

     I think books such as And Tango Makes Three shed an important light, especially if a student is in a situation where he or she has same-sex parents or other students exhibit strong negative feelings towards this topic.  Society as a whole still offers a lot of negativity towards this subject and a child could easily become the target of bullying from other students or even a teacher.  Books such as this one can help everyone see that a child in this situation is just as valuable as everyone else and does not need or deserve to be ostracized, there is nothing to fear and acceptance provides a better opportunity for everyone to thrive and grow.