A Reading Guide to Out of the Dust (Scholastic Bookfiles)
Scholastic bookfiles Series
on Goodreads (15)
What’s inside...
Discusses the writing, characters, plot and themes of the Newbery award-winning book about life on a farm in Oklahoma during the dust bowl years of the Depression. This reading companion is perfect for students, parents, and teachers who have enjoyed and want to know more about Karen Hesse's Newbery Award-winning novel, Out of the Dust. Out of the Dust is a favorite middle-grade novel. This companion gives background on the author, including an interview, questions to guide reading, clues to the story's themes, plot, characters, and setting, a glossary, writing and other activities, and more. If you loved Out of the Dust, you need this reading companion.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Billie Jo Kelby
Mad Dog Craddock
Bayard "Daddy" Kelby
Ma Kelby
Arley Wanderdale
Discussion points
How did the challenges Billie Jo faced change her perspective on family and resilience?
What role does hope play in the characters' lives throughout the story, especially during tough times?
How do the themes of loss and recovery in the book relate to challenges we see in the world today?
What did you learn about the history and impact of the Dust Bowl after reading this book?
Why is it important to stay hopeful and keep trying, even when situations seem very difficult?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book’s events, and relate them to personal experiences.
Discuss the historical context of the Dust Bowl together, exploring its causes and effects to enhance understanding of the story’s setting.
Identify moments in the book where characters show strength or vulnerability and talk about the importance of both in real life.
Use the book's vivid imagery to inspire a creative activity, such as drawing a scene or writing a short poem from the perspective of Billie Jo.
Highlight the growth of characters over time to teach resilience and the ability to overcome adversity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist's journey through personal and environmental challenges showcases the importance of persevering even in difficult times.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of resilience which can help them overcome obstacles they face at school or in their personal lives.
Example Lesson: The impact of forgiveness
Explanation: Characters in the story demonstrate forgiveness, teaching the reader about healing relationships and moving forward.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to practice forgiveness in their interactions with siblings and peers, promoting healthier relationships.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community support
Explanation: The protagonist relies on the support of family and community to cope with hardships, emphasizing the strength found in unity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and seek support from their own communities and families, understanding the value of teamwork and mutual aid.
Example Lesson: Personal growth through hardship
Explanation: Characters evolve and learn more about themselves in response to the trials they face, highlighting how challenges can foster personal development.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that struggles can lead to growth and self-discovery, helping them approach personal challenges as opportunities for development.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The book portrays different perspectives, encouraging the reader to understand and empathize with various characters.
Real-World Application: Instilling empathy in children can enhance their social skills and ability to connect with others, fostering a more inclusive environment at home and school.