Howard Thurman's Great Hope
What’s inside...
A moving testament to the binds of community and the power of faith, Howard Thurman's Great Hope illuminates the early life of the man who became a seminal civil rights leader. Born in segregated Daytona, Florida, in 1900, Howard Thurman grew up dreaming of a better life. Through hard work, perseverance and the support of friends and family, young Howard was able to transcend the limits on Negro education in Daytona. Later in life, he became one of the first African-American leaders to promote nonviolent protest. Martin Luther King saw him as an idol and inspiration. Howard Thurman's journey from a segregated childhood to a leading figure in civil rights showcases the potential of faith and community support in overcoming adversity.
Discussion points
What challenges did Howard Thurman face, and how did he overcome them?
How do you think having hope helped Howard Thurman?
Why is it important to have people who believe in you and support you?
What are some dreams you have for your future? How can you work towards them?
How can we help others feel hopeful and supported?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book and its themes to make your child feel comfortable expressing their opinions.
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own life by asking how they might feel in similar situations.
Highlight the importance of perseverance and hope, and discuss ways these qualities can be applied in real-life challenges they might face.
Acknowledge any emotional reactions to the story, letting your child know it's okay to feel strong emotions about the characters or the plot.
End the conversation by asking your child to think about one thing they can do to inspire or spread hope like Howard Thurman did.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Perseverance
Explanation: The story illustrates young Howard Thurman's determination to learn despite facing racial and economic hardships, showing his relentless pursuit of education.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist in their goals, whether academic or personal, even when faced with challenges.
Example Lesson: Value of Education
Explanation: Howard Thurman's journey underscores how education can be a powerful tool for personal and communal upliftment.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to value their schooling and see it as a path to achieving their dreams and impacting society positively.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through interactions between Howard and diverse individuals in his community, the narrative fosters a sense of empathy and understanding towards others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to embrace diversity and appreciate the unique stories and backgrounds of people around them.
Example Lesson: Importance of Mentorship
Explanation: The book shows how guidance from elders and mentors helps Howard navigate his challenges, highlighting the role mentors play in personal growth.
Real-World Application: Children can seek out mentors—be it teachers, family members, or coaches—to help guide them in their educational and personal development.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Howard Thurman's ability to maintain hope and focus amidst adversity is a central theme, teaching the power of resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to remain optimistic and steady when facing their own difficulties, fostering a resilient spirit.