I Can Make This Promise

Summary

Edie always felt unconnected to her identity. Ironically enough she was always questioned about what she is whenever it was by her teachers, friends, or complete strangers. Her mom was adopted by a white couple so Edie always assumed she did not know her Native American heritage. One day Edie and her friends were going through boxes in her attic when she finds a box full of letters. The letters feature a woman who looks like her and it’s signed love Edith. What secrets are being kept from Edie?

Theme(s):

Acceptance, Family, Prejudice, Traditions

Personal Response

I received this recommendation from a student of mine who is Native American. This novel is perfect for middle elementary into middle school age groups. I love it. I found our main character Edie to be very relatable to everyone. The first chapter in her discussion of “What are you?” I thought was very reliable for students of color like my own. Parents often protect us by lying/keeping secrets so I related to Edie’s reaction to finding the letters.

Teaching Ideas

I think pairing this novel with Ancestor Approved by Cynthia Smith might be a great chance to compare aspects of Native American Culture. I would do a Novel Study using I Can Make This Promise. I would include chapter-specific vocabulary words to go over before we read. Then I would implement post-its for students to practice annotating the text. This would be an excellent opportunity to practice Reading skills needed for success during state testing/interims. There is so much you can do here

BOOK.tique