How We Saw the World (Native Legends)
on Goodreads (18)
What’s inside...
This fascinating collection of tales from the native tribes of North America explains the origins of natural phenomena and animal characteristics. It includes stories about tornadoes, forest fires, butterflies, horses, Niagara Falls, the bond between humans and dogs, and even a humorous explanation of why owls and rabbits look the way they do.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the legend teaches us about respecting nature?
How did the characters' actions make you feel?
Which legend was your favorite and why?
Can you think of a time when you learned a lesson similar to one in the stories?
How do you think the world would look if we followed the teachings of these legends?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child to summarize the legends in their own words to ensure comprehension.
Use expressive and animated voice tones to mimic the storytelling style often found in native legends, making the story more engaging for your child.
Connect the themes of the book to everyday situations or recent experiences that your child can relate to, which can help deepen their understanding.
Encourage your child to draw or create something inspired by their favorite legend, which can help them express their thoughts and connection to the story.
Discuss the moral or lesson of each legend and ask your child how they could apply it in their own life, promoting a personal connection with the values presented in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Through various Native legends, the book illustrates the deep connection between indigenous cultures and the natural world, showing how nature is to be treated with reverence and care.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of conserving natural resources and can practice recycling, conserving water, and participating in local clean-up efforts.
Example Lesson: Value of Storytelling
Explanation: The book uses captivating stories passed down through generations to convey values, history, and lessons, highlighting the power of oral tradition in preserving culture.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to listen attentively to stories from elders in the community and share their own stories, enhancing their communication skills and cultural awareness.
Example Lesson: Community and Cooperation
Explanation: Several legends in the book focus on characters working together to solve problems or overcome challenges, underscoring the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in group activities at school or play, where children can practice collaborating with peers to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Courage and Resilience
Explanation: Characters in the stories often face daunting challenges but through bravery and perseverance, they manage to prevail, teaching children the virtue of courage.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to face fears and adversities, whether it’s trying out for a new sport, standing up against bullying, or adapting to changes like moving to a new school.
Example Lesson: Humility and Wisdom
Explanation: The book portrays characters who gain wisdom through humility and open-mindedness, rather than arrogance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value others' opinions, admit when they are wrong, and appreciate the wisdom passed down from elders and teachers, fostering a lifelong love for learning and personal growth.