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Lesson 1 (from Prologue and Book 1, Chapter 1: "All Respects to Heaven, I Like It Here")

Objective

Let the Great World Spin is a National Book Award-winning novel by Colum McCann. Set largely in New York City, the narrative explores two major events through the perspectives of several different protagonists, each reflected in different chapters. The first of these major events is based on the historical Twin Towers tightrope walk performed in 1974 by Philippe Petit. This lesson introduces the class to the novel and author, employs research on Petit’s World Trade Center tightrope stunt, and involves analysis of the Prologue’s setting and narrative style.

Lesson

Research Activity: Conduct research on author Colum McCann and the publication and reception of Let the Great World Spin. When was the novel published? What awards has the work earned? How did critics respond to the book? Develop a brief presentation discussing your findings.

Group Assignment: Assign students to groups of 3-4 each. As a group...

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