Overview
The many meanings of work -- from prehistory to the present, from around the world -- are the focus of this reader: "Work can be a place, as in 'Where do you work?' Work can be a job, as in 'What is your work?' People can get worked up and mines can get worked out. Many people are overworked but things usually work out. And sometimes you can get a really good hamburger with all the works. See other books in the series New Books for New Readers.
Synopsis
"The many meanings of work — from prehistory to the present, from around the world — are the focus of this reader: "Work can be a place, as in 'Where do you work? ' Work can be a job, as in 'What is your work? ' People can get worked up and mines can get worked out. Many people are overworked but things usually work out. And sometimes you can get a really good hamburger with all the works. See other books in the series New Books for New Readers."
Library Journal
This set of five books in a series sponsored by the Kentucky Humanities Council offers adult new readers a variety of contemporary, thought-provoking literature. Each selection is written by a Kentucky scholar with input from adult new readers and their tutors. Choices is a collection of short stories about the lives of rural families--their problems, concerns, and joys. History Mysteries outlines four mysteries involving past Kentucky events, while Kentucky Folklore discusses the rich and varied folk culture of the state. Why Work? is an informative account of the history of work. Women Who Made a Difference contains true stories about Kentucky women who made an impact on society. All but one of the books include a short introduction discussing the theme and contents. While these books were written with Kentucky readers in mind, the stories and information are such that they will appeal to a wide audience. The accounts are sometimes harsh in their reality, but adult new readers deserve access to literature that reflects the world around them and puts them in touch with their culture. Intended for reading levels 3.0 to 5.0, these books could easily be used as springboards for discussions in a tutorial setting, but mainly would be enjoyable reading on an individual basis.-- Bonnie Johnson, Montana State Univ. Lib., Bozeman