Bad Man Ballad (Library of Indiana Classics)
The library of Indiana classics Series
on Goodreads (10)
What’s inside...
Set in 1813 in the Ohio Valley during America's last war with England, 'Bad Man Ballad' follows three individuals - Ely Jackson, a 17-year-old backwoods boy; Owen Lightfoot, a lawyer from Philadelphia; and Rain Hawk, a half-breed girl living alone in the wilderness. Together, they chase a mysterious giant-like figure known as the 'Bearman,' wanted for murder. Ely and Owen aim to bring him to justice, while Rain Hawk seeks to protect him from the public's anger. This riveting tale offers a glimpse into the hardships and dangers of western settlement, with each character navigating the armed and fearful landscape in their pursuit of the truth.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-10
Length
256 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Rafe
Harpe
Discussion points
What do you think motivates the characters in the story to act the way they do?
How do the characters change throughout the story and what causes those changes?
If you were in this story, what would you have done differently and why?
How do the settings impact the story and the characters' actions?
What lessons can we learn from the characters' experiences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story's world, fostering empathy and deeper understanding. Use open-ended questions to help them think critically about the characters and plot. Discuss the moral lessons and how they can apply them in their own lives. Share your interpretations and thoughts about the story to model engaged reading.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of consequences
Explanation: In 'Bad Man Ballad,' actions taken by characters lead to various consequences, illustrating the cause and effect relationship.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to think about the outcomes before they act, understanding that their actions will have consequences.
Example Lesson: The value of courage
Explanation: Characters in the book often face tough situations requiring bravery to overcome challenges.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be brave when facing their own challenges, such as standing up against bullying or trying something new.
Example Lesson: The power of redemption
Explanation: The story presents characters who change their ways and seek redemption, emphasizing that change is always possible.
Real-World Application: Children can understand the importance of making amends and changing negative behaviors into positive ones.
Example Lesson: Understanding right from wrong
Explanation: Through the characters' journeys, the book explores moral dilemmas, helping children discern right from wrong.
Real-World Application: This lesson aids children in developing a moral compass, crucial for personal development and social interactions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: The narrative showcases the importance of understanding others' feelings and situations.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be empathetic and compassionate towards others, an essential skill for building healthy relationships.