Almost to Freedom
Carolrhoda Picture Books Series
What’s inside...
Lindy and her doll Sally are best friends - wherever Lindy goes, Sally stays right by her side. They eat together, sleep together, and even pick cotton together. So, on the night Lindy and her mama run away in search of freedom, Sally goes too. This young girl's rag doll vividly narrates her enslaved family's courageous escape through the Underground Railroad. At once heart-wrenching and uplifting, this story about friendship and the strength of the human spirit will touch the lives of all readers long after the journey has ended.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-9
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Sally felt when she had to leave her family behind?
What does the rag doll, Sally's only companion, symbolize in the story?
Why is freedom important and what are some ways people fight for it?
How can having something or someone to hold onto help us during tough times?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening when your child shares their thoughts about the book, validating their feelings and perspectives.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Sally's situation to foster deeper understanding and empathy.
Discuss the historical context of the story gently, ensuring you explain complex issues in an age-appropriate manner.
Connect the themes of the book to current events or personal family stories related to perseverance and hope.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The story, told through the perspective of a young girl's doll, showcases the challenges faced during an escape from slavery. It portrays the perseverance needed to overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges with courage and determination, understanding that resilience is key to overcoming difficulties.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As the doll witnesses the struggles and fears of the characters, readers are invited to understand the deep emotions and hardships of others.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to develop empathy towards others' feelings and situations, fostering a sense of compassion and support in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of hope and freedom
Explanation: The overarching theme of seeking freedom drives the narrative, illustrating the value and significance of hope in dire circumstances.
Real-World Application: Children can appreciate the importance of freedom and hope, inspiring them to value these ideals and possibly advocate for them in their communities.
Example Lesson: Historical awareness
Explanation: Set during a tumultuous period in American history, the book educates about the past, specifically about slavery and the Underground Railroad.
Real-World Application: This lesson allows children to gain a historical perspective, encouraging them to learn more about history and understand its impacts on the present.