Summary
A young girl is given the assignment of creating a family tree, which she struggled with as she does not know where her family is from. At home, she asks her grandmother for help to understand where they come from. Her grandmother began telling the story of their family lineage that originated in 1619, the language they spoke and the story of how they were enslaved and brought to America. She learned of how her people survived. With pride, the little girl was able to create her family tree.
Theme(s):
History, Culture, Family
Personal Response
find this adaptation of the 1619 project to be a great way to teach children a little bit about history, especially younger children. This book is one that I have read to my students year round, it has caused many of my students to ask many history related questions. This book brings about various emotions from sadness to joy.
Teaching Ideas
This book is a great companion for a family tree project where students first read and discuss the text, then go through the process of exploring their own family’s culture and creating a family tree of their own. Teachers could have the students spend 1-2 days creating their family trees, with the involvement of their family, and then have them share their family trees with their classroom or school community.
Recommended Reading Level
Grade 02, Grade 03, Grade 04, Grade 05
