Cesar Chavez
A true book Series
on Goodreads (10)
What’s inside...
Presents the life story of the Mexican American labor leader, Cesar Chavez, who helped achieve justice for migrant farm workers by creating a union to protect their rights. Explores his early life, the 1965 strike against California grape growers, his methods of resistance, and the growth of the United Farm Workers organization to include support from diverse groups across the country. The narrative also delves into Chavez’s effective leadership and his activities following the strike.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What challenges did Cesar Chavez face, and how did he overcome them to help others?
Why do you think fairness and equality were so important to Cesar Chavez?
How can we apply Cesar's values in our daily lives at school or with friends?
What do you admire most about Cesar Chavez's character and actions?
How do you think Cesar Chavez felt when he saw positive changes occurring as a result of his efforts?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by asking what your child already knows about Cesar Chavez or civil rights leaders in general. Use the key questions above to guide the discussion and listen actively to your child’s thoughts and opinions. Share your own perspectives to encourage a two-way conversation. It could also be beneficial to relate the book’s themes to current events or personal family stories to make it more relatable and engaging for the child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The book portrays Cesar Chavez's deep empathy for workers and their struggles, highlighting his tireless efforts to improve their lives.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and understand the feelings and hardships of others, fostering kindness and supportive actions in their own interactions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Commitment
Explanation: Cesar Chavez's dedication to nonviolent methods and relentless activism despite numerous challenges demonstrates the power of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to stay committed to their goals and face obstacles with determination and patience.
Example Lesson: Justice and Fairness
Explanation: The story emphasizes Chavez's fight for equity in the workplace, advocating for fair treatment and better conditions for all workers.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of fairness and the role they can play in promoting justice in their communities, whether at school or in local groups.
Example Lesson: Civic Engagement and Advocacy
Explanation: Chavez's role in organizing marches and protests teaches the importance of civic participation and using one's voice to effect change.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be active participants in their communities and to use their voices responsibly to advocate for themselves and others.
Example Lesson: Leadership and Influence
Explanation: Chavez exemplified leadership by inspiring and mobilizing people towards a common goal, showing that leadership is about service and vision.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to take on leadership roles in small projects or group activities, learning to guide others with compassion and integrity.