Abenaki Captive (Adventures in Time Books)
Adventures In Time Series
on Goodreads (12)
What’s inside...
ABENAKI CAPTIVE is a story based on historical accounts of an event in the spring of 1752 when ten Abenaki hunters came upon four English trappers, known as Pastoni, taking game on Abenaki lands. Some of the English trappers were captured. In the same year, a nineteen-year-old Abenaki warrior named Ogistin was present when his people captured an English trapper named John Stark. As Stark is carried into captivity, a bond of hate and competition develops between him and Ogistin.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
180 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt when they were taken captive, and why?
What would you have done in a similar situation and why?
How do you think the story reflects the history of the Abenaki people?
What can we learn about courage and resilience from the characters in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the shoes of the characters, imagining their thoughts and feelings.
Discuss the historical context of the book, providing a brief overview of the Abenaki tribe and their experiences.
Highlight the themes of resilience and courage, asking your child to provide examples of these traits from the book.
Ask your child what lessons they can take from the book and how they can apply them to their own lives.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist in 'Abenaki Captive' demonstrates resilience by adapting and persevering through challenging and unfamiliar circumstances after being captured.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain positive and adapt to new challenges, whether it be adjusting to a new school or dealing with a difficult situation at home.
Example Lesson: Understanding and respecting different cultures
Explanation: The book explores the cultures of the Abenaki tribe and the protagonist's own, providing insights into both societies and highlighting the importance of respect and understanding.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate and respect people from different backgrounds and cultures they encounter in their daily lives, promoting harmony and inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Courage to confront fears
Explanation: Faced with daunting situations, the main character shows bravery by confronting fears directly, which is pivotal to survival and adaptation in the story.
Real-World Application: Children can be influenced to face their own fears, be it speaking in front of the class or trying out a new activity, learning that bravery can lead to personal growth.
Example Lesson: Importance of hope and optimism
Explanation: Despite the hardships faced, the protagonist maintains hope, which is portrayed as a vital element in overcoming difficult situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the power of staying hopeful and optimistic even during tough times, aiding them in maintaining mental well-being.
Example Lesson: Value of empathy and understanding
Explanation: As the story progresses, the protagonist develops a deeper understanding and empathy towards the captors, seeing them as individuals rather than enemies.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop empathy, understanding that everyone has their own story and reasons for their actions, which is crucial for forming healthy relationships.