The Boy with the Golden Hair

I selected the story “The Boy with Golden Hair.” This is an easily accessible story appropriate for a variety of age levels. A fitting story for the weeks before the start of the school year. It reminds me not to be too quick to judge my students. This is a story about a quiet boy who typically does well in school who shows up to school in a hat, something that is strict against the rules. The headmaster/principal is concerned and brings up the issue to the teacher. She had been told that the reason for the hat was head lice; however, it is revealed that the hat is covering up hair that has been dyed bright gold. The teacher is frustrated that the boy lied. The boy is told to dye his hair back to black and report back to the teacher the next morning. When he doesn’t show, the teacher goes to his house where she discovers the truth and the reason for his golden hair. 

It’s well worth reading because it drives home the point that we really don’t always know what is is going on with students and compassion goes a long way to building relationships. There’s so much going on in this story, yet there is nothing inappropriate for middle school or high school students. I’ve found that’s sometimes a challenge with contemporary literature. 

Truly a universal story.