Grasshopper Summer
What’s inside...
In 1874, eleven-year-old Sam White and his family are moving from Kentucky to the Dakota Territory. These hardy pioneers know it will be hard work, but they don't expect the devastating plague that comes like an unstoppable force to sweep away all their hopes for the future. They will cope. But they will never forget this grasshopper summer.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
176 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Sam felt when he had to leave his home and move to the new settlement?
How did the grasshopper summer change the family's life? Can you think of a time when an unexpected event changed your routine?
Why do you think teamwork was important for the settlers? Can you share a situation where you had to work with others to solve a problem?
What did you learn about how people lived in the 1870s? How is it different from our life today?
If you were in Sam’s shoes, how would you handle the challenges he faced?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening to fully understand your child’s perspective. Acknowledge their feelings before sharing your own thoughts.
Relate the book's historical setting to today by contrasting old and new ways of living. This can make the discussion more relatable and engaging.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them how they would react in similar situations to the characters in the book.
Highlight the importance of resilience and adaptability as demonstrated by the characters when faced with the grasshopper plague.
Discuss the value of community and working together, which is a predominant theme in the book, and relate it to your child's experiences in school or within the family.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Grasshopper Summer,' the protagonist, Sam, and his family face numerous challenges as they move to the Dakota Territory. Despite difficulties, they persevere and work together to build a new life.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of staying strong and working through difficulties they encounter, whether it's moving to a new place or facing challenges at school.
Example Lesson: Value of hard work
Explanation: The family in 'Grasshopper Summer' works hard to cultivate their land and maintain their homestead. This illustrates the rewards that can come from dedication and labor.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to put effort into their studies, chores, and other responsibilities, reinforcing that hard work leads to tangible achievements.
Example Lesson: Adapting to change
Explanation: As Sam and his family adjust to their new environment which is drastically different from their previous home, they learn to adapt to their surroundings and the new challenges that come their way.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that being open and adaptable to change is crucial, whether it's adapting to a new grade, school, or any changes in their personal lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of family support
Explanation: Throughout the trials faced in the Dakota Territory, Sam's family remains a crucial source of support and strength for each other, showcasing the importance of familial bonds.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of supporting family members and maintaining strong family relationships during both good times and bad.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: Sam confronts both physical and emotional fears as he settles into his new life. His courage in these situations is a central theme.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own fears, such as speaking in front of the class, trying out for a sports team, or standing up for what is right.