PLATNATION BOY VS. RAGGED DICK This week, as we transition away from Plantation Boy and into our final text of the semester, I want you to take some time to think about how Murayama’s interpretation of the American dream in his story compares to the one presented to us in Horatio Alger’s Ragged Dick. In a 1-2 page (double-spaced) equivalent response, consider the following: What similarities do you see in the way Alger and Murayama’s novels present the American dream? (Think beyond the obvious differences of time and location). What differences do you see? (Again, push beyond the obvious). What factors may account for some of these differences (race, time period, etc.)? How did each novel leave you feeling about the American dream? Hopeful? Cynical? What might this say about the state of American society at the time each novel is set? Feel free to add in any other comparison/contrast observations you might have about Alger’s and Murayama’s stories.