A Distinct Voice In Karen Hesse's Leanora

Karen Hesse wrote a poetic story by weaving 11 different characters together to share this tale, based on real events. By having 11 different distinct voices, Hesse is able to represent America in the 1920’s as well as modern-day life. By representing in both time periods, Hesse’s story resonates with the young, modern reader. Every reader can find a character they can relate to. Whether it is Leanora, who is struggling to find her way. Or Reynard Alexander, who speaks his opinion in hopes of a safer tomorrow. Or even Merlin Van Tornhout, who finds it easy to hate but difficult to act on his account. These characters can connect to young, modern readers who might be struggling with their own morals and decisions. By writing in poetry, Hesse resonates with young, modern readers, too. Even though poetry is short, sweet and to the point, Hesse utilizes every single word. Her words are well written because they are strategically and efficiently used. Her style is so effective because she writes in a way that gives each character a distinct voice that is unique and original. This clarity of voices between characters makes it easy to find one to connect with on a deeper, much more meaningful level. Leanora, for example, comes alive through her own voice throughout the poems that create her own story …show more content…
Reynard used his job as the town’s newspaper editor to share his feelings about the Ku Klux Klan. Although writing his true opinion about how horrible and dangerous they were risked his own life, he did not back down. He risked his life in hopes of saving others. He was doing everything he could to protect his town. Reynard’s character has morals that students need to analyze and see the value in because sometimes doing the right thing is not always the easy way out. Above all, they need to care for each other, even when it is not the popular action to