And it’s even harder for a child, which is only just learning about what’s right and wrong in social situations. Doing what one knows to be right can be hard, even for adults. Or in other words, our actions should reflect our values.
Maybe unintentionally he asks us to do what we know to be right. But Jon Klassen goes a step further than just stating a human convention. Not to compare “This Is Not My Hat” to the bible, but it does have a similar message: Stealing is morally wrong (and there’s a high chance you will get caught, and maybe killed for your crimes). One message certainly is: “You shall not steal”, as it is written in the ten commandments. It presents us with a story of how not to act. The picture book touches on a few deep-seated topics: Taking responsibility for one’s actions, self-control over emotional impulses and personal growth by living up to one’s values, just to name a few. It fits me just right.” (Klassen 2012) The morally correct line of thoughts is stated in this text passage but the small fish decided to not act accordingly. But I am going to keep it.” Justifying this with: “It was too small for him anyway. The small fish even explains: “I know it’s wrong to steal a hat. The story does contain moral guidelines, it presents a clear line between what is morally acceptable or unacceptable. By trying to please everyone he becomes an active part in the persecution of the small fish.
The crab is a naive bystander, denying his moral obligations to be involved in the conflict.This process doesn’t change his personality nor his behaviour but it does justify his actions, at least from his perspective. The big fish is a supposed villain who becomes a victim.He does stay likeable throughout the story but his actions become increasingly unjustifiable. His greed undermines his ability to live up to his values. The characters personalities seem to be as follows: Therefore, looking for a hero is an impossible task. So, what ‘s the message, if there is one?Īs stated above there are no positive role models in this book.
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