Reading Response Journal: Sing to the Dawn

Mavis Tan is usually quiet in class. But she pays attention, and I can usually read her thoughts on her lovely, transparent face. When she knits her eyebrows, I stop and ask her what’s on her mind. Always, she has an incisive observation or a thought-provoking question.

A psychology major, Mavis is interested in finding out how children’s literature can influence a child’s development in terms of cognition, behaviour and moral values acquisition.

When I read her reading response journal, I knew that I had an outstanding essay in my hands. It doesn’t happen all the time these days, and so I’d like to share it with you with pride.

Education, Gender Inequality, and Kinship

by Mavis Tan

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Sing to the Dawn (1975) by Minfong Ho was one of the first literary texts I studied in secondary school. When I picked up this book again for the reading response journal, traces of the notes I had made in pencil still remained.

I tried to recall my first impression of the story, but I could only vaguely remember the plot. I made it a point to erase my pencil markings so that I could start afresh exploring the book.

This book has once again touched me because like the main character, Dawan, I believe continuous effort can help me fulfill my dreams. Being an adult, I can relate to the themes of the story better.

However, the fact that I was born and raised in different social circumstances seems to deny me the ability to totally understand the struggles of Dawan.

In the following sections, I have selected three responses which best represent my emotions and thoughts about this book. In addition, I will be commenting and reflecting upon these responses with regard to the importance of education, the issue of gender inequality, and the power of kinship.

Entry 1: Education - Privilege or Obligation?

… I may have taken my education for granted all these years. It was ‘natural’ to go to school, ‘natural’ to pass examinations and ‘natural’ to pursue higher education. I’ve never had to fight for an opportunity to study. My dad will be happy for me if I got first in class. I won’t have to be scared of doing well. Everything will be great if I do well in my exam. Why is Dawan so scared? What has that society done to young girls who have dreams? It’s absurd.

Primary education is compulsory for every Singaporean child. Unlike children in less developed countries who have no access to schools and books, Singaporean children are truly fortunate.

However, this privilege has turned into an obligation for many Singaporean students. It is sad to hear of students who complain about how much they hate school and homework, for they do not seem to see the true purpose of education.

Unlike Dawan who has a dream to help her village people, to help those who are not educated, and to rid the society of injustice, children today may be simply studying for the sake of satisfying their need to be recognized and acknowledged as worthy individuals of society.

Who is responsible for such a mindset? How can children appreciate and learn the true purpose of being educated? Adults should ponder on the important role we play as parents and teachers, and not take away a child’s right of a joyful and fruitful education.

Entry 2: Is Gender Inequality Fated?

I’m so sad. Dawan is always being given hope, and then things and people take that hope away. She smiles, then gets worried, then gets hopeful again, and is disappointed again. It frustrates me to read how she has to go through this roller coaster of emotions.

Why do brothers have the right to hit sisters? It is unjust. Why is Dawan being denied a dream by so many people who are supposed to be wise and encouraging? Are they really concerned about her? Or have they been brainwashed by the system? Maybe just because she is a girl.

Being part of a society with high gender equality, it is hard for me to imagine how it is like to be unworthy of something because of one’s gender. For a long time, many have tried to justify their biased thoughts and behaviour, but the suffering inequality brings to people is real, not imagined.

Women in many traditional societies have suffered because they are viewed as inferior to men. They are deprived of their rights as human beings, and many have continued to resign to their fate for centuries. But that ‘fate’ was created by human beings. It takes courageous individuals to stand up for justice. Or rather, it takes just one individual who dares to dream.

Entry 3: The Power of Kinship

… I know Kwai and Dawan love each other. In the midst of the struggle between chasing their dreams and reality, their relationship was hurt. Deep in their hearts, they wish each other the best, and only want the best for each other. It takes more than kinship to make selfless sacrifices. It takes courage. Dawan is brave. And so is Kwai. Love and courage have conquered injustice.

A strong and close-knit family acts as a support for us in times of struggle and uncertainty. Although squabbles may be frequent between siblings and spouses, we love and cherish each other deep in our hearts. The end of the book shows that despite the trouble caused by Dawan’s intent to further her education, her family remains close-knit.

Grandmother’s encouragement to Dawan brought tears to my eyes. Perhaps I know how it feels like to have someone assure me that ‘nothing is impossible’. The power of words of wisdom and a seemingly simple encouragement can change the life of a loved one.

I have briefly commented on the aspects of education, gender inequality and kinship in my response, and I will conclude with the following points.

Firstly, we need to cherish the opportunity to be educated and help our young to do the same.

Secondly, gender inequality is a social issue which can be overcome with courage and perseverance.

Thirdly, strong bonds with kin serve as a source of love and support.

To me, these aspects are important in every society because they have tremendous impact on individuals and social life. Through these three aspects, the theme of having the courage to pursue one’s dreams is exemplified.

Finally, I believe that Sing to the Dawn serves as a good book for both children and adults in this modern day. We can benefit a lot from the story and the messages it brings across.