Cowboy: A Kid's Album
on Goodreads (12)
What’s inside...
This book by L. Granfield provides a photographic glimpse into the life of cowboys in the late 1800s American West. It covers topics such as a day in the life on the cattle trails, the cowboy's work with livestock, camp cooking on the open range, lively social gatherings, and more.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the life of a cowboy differs from your daily life?
What are some challenges that cowboys face and how do you think they overcome them?
What qualities do you admire in the main characters and why?
If you were a cowboy or cowgirl for a day, what would you like to do the most?
How do you think teamwork is important in a cowboy's life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the cowboy’s boots, fostering empathy and understanding.
Discuss the historical context of the cowboy era to enhance comprehension and connect the past to the present.
Connect the challenges faced by the characters to real-life situations your child may encounter, promoting problem-solving skills.
Highlight the values such as bravery, perseverance, and teamwork demonstrated in the book to reinforce these positive attributes.
Use the illustrations in the book to spark conversations about artistic interpretations and how they help tell the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Responsibility
Explanation: The protagonist in 'Cowboy: A Kid's Album' takes on various duties around the ranch, showing commitment and reliability.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking charge of their own chores at home, such as cleaning their room or taking care of a pet.
Example Lesson: Value of Hard Work
Explanation: The story emphasizes the hard work involved in being a cowboy, from early mornings to late nights, depicting dedication and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Kids can mirror this work ethic in their studies and extracurricular activities, understanding that effort leads to achievement.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Throughout the book, there's a strong sense of awe and respect for the natural world, which is integral to a cowboy's life.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and take care of their environment, whether it’s by recycling, participating in a cleanup, or simply enjoying nature walks.
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: The story introduces readers to the unique lifestyle and traditions of cowboys, enriching their cultural understanding.
Real-World Application: This awareness can encourage children to explore and respect various cultures and histories within their own communities and beyond.