How the World Was Saved & Other Native American Tales
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
This book is a collection of Native American tales retold by Piers Harper. It includes various stories from different tribes that explore themes of creation, nature, and morality. The tales are meant to convey traditional wisdom and cultural values passed down through generations. Each story provides a unique perspective on how the world works and the role of humans within it. The book aims to preserve these stories and share the rich heritage of Native American folklore with a wider audience.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-10
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think is the most important lesson from these stories?
How do the characters' actions help us understand their values?
Can you think of a time when you had to make a tough decision, like some of the characters?
What did you learn about Native American culture from these tales?
Which story was your favorite and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the stories. Use the questions to guide a deeper understanding of the cultural and moral lessons. Relate the tales to their personal experiences to make the discussion more relevant. Highlight the significance of respect for nature and community, which are often central themes in Native American tales.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The tales vividly illustrate the Native American reverence for the natural world, showcasing characters who interact harmoniously with their environment.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and care for their surroundings, understanding the importance of conservation and respect for wildlife.
Example Lesson: The value of wisdom
Explanation: Elders and wise characters in the stories often provide guidance to the younger characters, emphasizing the importance of wisdom and experience.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to listen to and learn from their elders, gaining insight and knowledge that can help them navigate their own lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of community
Explanation: The stories highlight how working together can achieve great things, illustrating how characters often rely on the strength of their community to overcome challenges.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to value teamwork and community, understanding that collective efforts often yield better results.
Example Lesson: Courage and bravery
Explanation: Many tales inspire with characters who face fears or adversaries with bravery, underscoring the importance of courage in overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to confront their own fears and stand up for what is right, translating into everyday acts of bravery.
Example Lesson: The power of storytelling
Explanation: The book itself serves as a testament to the rich oral traditions of Native American cultures, showcasing the role of storytelling in preserving history and morals.
Real-World Application: Children can appreciate storytelling as a valuable way to communicate and preserve cultural heritage and personal histories.