At Ellis Island: A History in Many Voices
What’s inside...
The experiences of people coming to the United States from many different lands are conveyed through the perspectives of a contemporary young girl visiting Ellis Island and a girl who immigrated in about 1910. The book also includes quotes from early twentieth-century immigrants and Ellis Island officials, providing a touching look into a pivotal part of America's history. The voices of real immigrants share their suffering in steerage, their first glimpse of the Statue of Liberty, and their journey through the Great Hall, bringing to life the hopes, dreams, and challenges faced by those who passed through Ellis Island.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What feelings do you think the immigrants had when they arrived at Ellis Island?
Why do you think people decided to leave their home countries to come to America?
How do you think the experience at Ellis Island was different for each person?
What challenges do you think the immigrants faced after leaving Ellis Island?
If you were traveling to a new country, what would you take with you and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the shoes of the immigrants by asking them how they would feel in similar situations. Use the illustrations and stories in the book to spark curiosity and deeper understanding. Highlight the diversity of experiences and discuss the common emotions and challenges faced by the immigrants. Lastly, ask your child how learning about these stories helps us understand the world and people better today.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through the diverse voices of immigrants who passed through Ellis Island, children learn about the different challenges and hopes that brought people to America.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by showing understanding and kindness to peers from different backgrounds, fostering a more inclusive environment at school and in playgroups.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The stories depict individuals and families persevering through difficult journeys and uncertainties, demonstrating determination and resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to persist through their own challenges, whether it’s difficult school assignments or adapting to new situations.
Example Lesson: History’s Impact on the Present
Explanation: The book illustrates the historical journey of immigrants and how it shaped the culture and population of modern America.
Real-World Application: Children can appreciate how history influences current events and societal structures, helping them understand the importance of history in shaping our world.
Example Lesson: Diversity as America’s Strength
Explanation: By presenting many voices and stories, the book highlights how America is built on a foundation of diverse cultures and people.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to value and celebrate diversity in their communities and see it as a strength rather than a division.