d emotionalchains develop as women and as humans.I have never read a book that made me think as much as this book did. I did not need to have an abusive father, nor be in the same horrible relationships in order to feel as though I related. Reading about a woman with that kind of family, and life, I discovered so much about who I wanted to be, and what I wanted for my life. The main character was exactly what I wanted to avoid. In addition, the roots of A Thousand Acres can be seen in numerous novels and plays, the most obvious of which is King Lear. I think it would be interesting to read both works and then be able to compare the two. . The parallels are too great to ignore. Smiley is successful because she fills in so many of the gaps left open in the play. She gives us new and different perspectives.In conclusion, I think this book should be taught in an AP English class not only because I enjoyed it so much and think everyone should read it, but also because it has so much merit. There is so much to be discussed. Not only the symbolism and imagry of the farm, but the diction and syntax are so rich throughout the novel. I think most importantly this book brought a message for the reader. I was so moved by the conviction of that underlying tone that warned me against what life can become. Quality books that become classics are those that make you think, and A Thousand Acres falls easily into that category....
