Abe Lincoln at Last!
#19 of 27 in Magic Tree House (R) Merlin Mission Series
What’s inside...
The Magic Tree House series takes Jack and Annie on a journey to Washington D.C. in the 1860s where they meet President Abraham Lincoln. The siblings help him deliver his famous Gettysburg Address during a critical time in American history. The book, formerly known as Magic Tree House #47, is part of the Merlin Mission series and is now renumbered as #19, celebrating 25 years of the bestselling series with new covers and an updated numbering system. Jack and Annie are trying to get a special feather to help save Merlin’s baby penguin, Penny. They are whisked back to 1861 where they face challenges meeting a busy President Lincoln, who is struggling to save a nation in crisis. They are sent even further back in time to a mysterious woods frequented by Lincoln. Here they meet an orphan named Sam who may help them in their quest, but they may also need to help Sam. As time races, they need to make the right decisions to help a president, a troubled nation, and still manage to get the object necessary to save Penny the penguin.
Character compass
Jack
Sam
Annie
Abraham Lincoln
Discussion points
What challenges did Abe Lincoln face, and how did he overcome them?
What qualities do you think made Abe Lincoln a good leader?
How can we apply Abe Lincoln's values to our everyday life?
Why is it important to learn about historical figures like Abe Lincoln?
What did you learn about friendship and teamwork in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing Abe Lincoln's qualities, relate them to current everyday situations your child may face to help them connect the dots.
Encourage your child to think about how historical lessons can be applied today, making history feel relevant and dynamic.
Highlight the importance of perseverance, as seen in Abe Lincoln's life, when discussing challenges and failures.
Use examples from the book to talk about the value of teamwork and ask your child about times they've had to work as part of a team.
Ask your child to draw parallels between the story's events and their own life, enhancing personal connection with the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The book shows Abe Lincoln's journey through difficult times, demonstrating the importance of staying determined despite facing challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to keep trying in their personal challenges, such as learning a new skill or dealing with schoolwork.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Abe Lincoln is portrayed as someone who cared deeply for others, helping children understand the importance of considering the feelings and perspectives of others.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be considerate and understanding towards their friends and family members in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Historical Awareness
Explanation: The book provides insights into a significant period in American history, the Civil War, through the experiences of Abraham Lincoln.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take an interest in history and learn about how past events shape the present.
Example Lesson: Leadership
Explanation: Abe Lincoln's role as a leader during a tumultuous time highlights the traits of good leadership such as integrity and decision-making.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these leadership qualities in group settings such as collaborative school projects or sports teams.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The story showcases Abraham Lincoln solving numerous problems during his presidency, emphasizing the process of thoughtful decision-making.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to approach their own problems methodically, thinking through possible solutions.