A Line From Flaubert

** This frigid winter has been an excuse for me to catch up on my reading list and finish a few book reviews for area libraries.** 

One of my trips to the Rushville Public Library produced a surprising gem the other day.

One of the young adult books I had chosen was set in historic France. Recent historic France. As in post WWII. 

It was a Robert Cormier short novel. 

Tunes For Bears To Dance To. 

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Have I been living under a rock? Is this a new classic? If not, I think it should be.

This short novel was quite a surprise to me.

From the beginning one can guess at a few different paths the plot would take. Honestly though, until very near the end I did not guess the deeper meaning Cormier was trying to convey. I admire this twist. I admire this approach to an age old theme because it gripped me right at the heart - and the throat - and made me think.

Here are the real tragedies and atrocities that life hands out indiscriminately to us, young and old; and Cormier’s story makes these two main points:

1    1. Recognize real evil DOES walk the face of this Earth.

      2. How you interact with this real evil effects EVERYONE.

The inner struggles of this eleven year old boy, Henry Cassavant, highlight the true mess that life really is. They highlight the million decisions each person must make every day, whether they want to or not. Cormier points out in details along the way that doing nothing IS a decision; it allows something to proceed and it allows something to cease.

Doing nothing is an acceptance of the status quo. Henry is faced with nothing new, but he grows, making decisions that are NOT accepting of the status quo. Three major areas of his life play out, that at first, propel him along on a path he has no control of. Then slowly, acts of evil, which on the surface look to destroy this child, actually inspire Henry to make decisions- little bit by little bit- that change lives around him for the better. Henry himself and the others are not even aware of the larger importance of his decisions.

Henry’s interactions with his employer, Mr. Hairston and his friend, Mr. Levine set in motion waves of action that reveal the age old faces of evil, victimization, and heroism. Cormier shows us that the small, quiet, humble heroes in life are larger than evil, larger than any publicly celebrated hero, or mythological knight in shining armor.

What does this book have to do with Whitewater Valley history you ask? 

Well, nothing really...and everything. 

We history buffs like to say if you do not study history you are doomed to repeat it. History is about the past, the present, and the future actually. You study the past, apply its lessons to the present - to have an improved future. 

Many changes need to happen in the Whitewater Valley. 

What interactions can YOU initiate in your beautiful valley by the river?

Instead of wallowing in the aftermath of downturns, like Henry Cassavant decide to not be SAD. 

Decide to DO something.

DO SOMETHING.