Blog Post #6 Morgan Dixon

I read Margaret Finders book “Just Girls”, during our book club. Finders begins by first making a distinction between two groups of middle school aged girls known as ‘the Queens’, and ‘the Cookies’. Both groups of girls use literacy in vastly different ways that ultimately contribute to that individuals over all success. The queens rely on peer groups to identify themselves and their roles while the cookies depend more heavily upon their individual self, using literacy sponsors like teachers and parents for guidance and support. It was an interesting read as the book went on because I found myself relating with the girls in ways that helped me reflect on my own literacy experiences.

I found myself mixed up in the descriptions of both girl groups, relating heavily to each at certain points throughout the school year. I definitely put a lot of importance on peer groups. I wanted to hang out with my friends constantly. We wrote on the bathroom walls, and passed notes whenever we could get away with it. We read magazines in the bathrooms, and we went after boys like there was no tomorrow! But I still thought of myself as academically driven. I always got good grades, but I did find myself in detention more than a few times for talking out of turn. (which after having me in a class should come as no surprise to my professors). I had a strong relationship with many of my teachers and I still think of my middle school aged teachers as people I would feel comfortable reaching out to now after numerous years passing. I had a good respect and appreciation for authority, which I personally think allowed me to get away with more overall. I felt comfortable cracking jokes mid class, and passing a quick note, but I felt confident that I would get my work done, and receive a good mark.

I think the queens and the cookies both had important aspect to their literacy experiences. The queens used peer groups to establish themselves amongst their peers, and to move forward in that respect. While the cookies depended on themselves, and their respect for success and authority to help guide them to a good education. I think if these girls were able to intermix their literacy practices with one another both groups would benefit immensely. If they were able to learn from the other group of girls, what’s important to their success, and the adopt like values, everyone involved would benefit.