Neufeld, John: 1938-2021

Edgar Allan, 1968 - Information about the Book

General Information | Facts | Commentary | Reviews | Explanations

General Information
- The novel is about a twelve-year-old white boy named Michael and his relationship with his minister father and siblings after they adopt a black boy named Edgar Allan and the effects of such a decision.
- John Neufeld’s inspiration for writing “Edgar Allan.”
  
  Neufeld, having spent time teaching and interacting with teenagers, became attuned to their struggles with identity, social acceptance, and feelings of isolation. These themes are central to "Edgar Allan." Neufeld’s portrayal of the family’s dynamics and the community’s reaction to the adoption reflects his understanding of racial tensions and societal expectations during that era.
  Neufeld's interest in history and literature, including his personal affinity for Edgar Allan Poe, is woven into the fabric of the novel.
  Developed by AI
Facts
- Topics
  
  Transracial Adoption
  The novel centers around a white family, the Ficketts, who adopt a young Black boy named Edgar Allan. It depicts the family's struggles to adapt and the racism they face from their community after the adoption.
  Racism and Prejudice
  A major theme is the overt racism and prejudice the family encounters from their neighbors, church congregation, and even extended family members due to their adoption of a Black child. The novel highlights the deep-rooted racial tensions and biases present in society.
  
  Family Dynamics
  The book examines the strain the adoption puts on the Fickett family dynamics and relationships. The children, especially the teenage daughter Mary Nell, struggle to accept Edgar Allan, ultimately leading to a rift in the family.
  
  Community Pressure
  The novel explores how societal pressures and the intolerant attitudes of their community impact the family's ability to successfully integrate Edgar Allan, eventually leading them to return him to the orphanage.
  
  Loss of Innocence
  Through the eyes of the young narrator Michael Fickett, the novel depicts the loss of innocence and disillusionment he experiences as he witnesses the cruelty and prejudices of the adult world.
  
  In essence, Edgar Allan by John Neufeld is a poignant examination of the challenges interracial families faced due to widespread racism and intolerance in society during the time it was written.
  Developed by Perplexity AI
- General Perception
  
  "Edgar Allan" was one of the early works to tackle the sensitive topics of racial discrimination and transracial adoption in young adult literature.
  It is considered to have had a strong influence on its audience, addressing important social issues in a way that resonated with young readers.
  
  Despite being published over 50 years ago, the themes explored in "Edgar Allan" continue to be pertinent in discussions about race, adoption, and social justice.
  
  The novel is often included in discussions of significant works of young adult literature, particularly those addressing social issues.
  
  Overall, "Edgar Allan" is generally perceived as a pioneering and impactful young adult novel that brought important discussions about race and adoption to the forefront of literature for younger readers.
  
  Developed by Perplexity AI
- Reader Rating:
Commentary
- John Neufeld’s "Edgar Allan" is a compelling young adult novel that explores themes of racism, transracial adoption, and societal pressure. The story centers on the Fickett family, a white minister’s household that adopts a young Black boy named Edgar Allan. Narrated by Michael, the 12-year-old son, the novel delves into the family’s struggles as they face intense backlash from their small-town community and church congregation due to their decision.
  The book captures the dynamics within the Fickett family, highlighting how each member reacts differently to Edgar’s arrival. While Michael forms a bond with Edgar, his older sister Mary Nell opposes the adoption, reflecting the pervasive racism of the time. The Reverend initially supports the adoption but eventually succumbs to community pressure, leading to Edgar’s return to the orphanage.
  
  Neufeld poignantly portrays the loss of innocence through Michael’s disillusionment with the adult world’s cruelty and prejudice. Though written decades ago, "Edgar Allan" remains relevant for its unflinching examination of racial intolerance and its impact on individuals and families.
  Developed by AI
Reviews
- Review: "I would recommend this book. It is a really fast read. It has strong messages throughout the book."
Explanations
- How It Started
- Information from prezi