Teachers, as you revise your reading lists for the next school year, I recommend taking a look at The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. Over the last few years I have seen many teachers asking for ideas on how to teach The Odyssey [TO] because students were struggling. I love TO and I loved teaching parts of it when I taught middle school many years ago. Students often find the text, plot, and themes difficult to relate to. Another great, classic option is The Count of Monte Cristo. It is the story of a hero’s journey, and he is a hero readers can cheer for, unlike Odysseus whose morals are questionable at times. Students will find Edmond Dantes a relatable character done wrong, and will want to follow him on his path to revenge. The prolific author Alexandre Dumas, also known for The Three Musketeers, is of French and African descent; his father was a general for Napoleon. The Count would pair nicely with short stories like “The Most Dangerous Game,” or movies like The Fugitive, or Shawshank Redemption. If you have found success teaching TO, stay with it! However, I do recommend The Count of Monte Cristo, a classic that is often overlooked, to be considered as a new addition to your curriculum. Happy Summer!
