The book of the unknown americans"

Goal:

1: to demonstrate the ability to narrow down a topic

2: to prove points using the text

3: to effectively apply the concepts of feminist, psychological or reader-response criticism to the analysis and interpretation,

4:to use MLA conventions adequately.

Task:

1: Write a literary analysis of the novel “The Book of Unknown Americans”

2: Apply arguments made in two sources: one scholarly, peer reviewed, and one intended for a general audience.

3: Use verbs in the present tense to refer to events that take place during the timeframe of the text.

Sources:

1: The Book of Unknown American by Cristina Henríquez

2: One source intended for the general public, such as a documentary, a trusted website or news outlet, a podcast or radio program, a magazine article, a chapter in a book, etc. Make sure these sources are relevant, reliable, and current

3: One scholarly, peer-reviewed article or book chapter.

Structure: Follow this outline

1. Introduction: “hook” the reader by introducing the themes your essay will develop, by concisely describing interesting aspects of your text, by providing relevant background information, such as authors’ name, or any other relevant information about the novel. Then ease into your thesis: 1-2 sentences that encapsulate your interpretation of the texts. Thesis should be arguable and not solely based on personal opinion or constitute a statement of fact. Articulate the thesis in specific and effective language. Underline this statement. Make sure your thesis anticipates a discussion of how and why the novel or movie does something innovative and unique.

2.Body: Develop your analysis. Remember to make logical claims and prove them with ample and appropriate evidence from the play. Make analysis innovative. Do not summarize plot in the body.

3.Conclusion: End your analysis by presenting more than a recapitulation of the thesis and main points, but a “Big Picture” of the importance of your analysis.

(1500 words)

Link for “the book of unknown americans” : https://www.litcharts.com/lit/the-book-of-unknown-americans/themes/isolation-vs-community