Laura Ingalls Wilder
Children's authors Series
on Goodreads (13)
What’s inside...
Recounts the life story of the author of the 'Little House' books, from her childhood in Wisconsin to her old age at Rocky Ridge Farm.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-8
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What challenges did Laura face and how did she overcome them?
How did Laura's family relationships influence her throughout the book?
What can we learn from the way Laura and her family adapted to new environments?
How do the descriptions of settings affect your feelings about the story?
If you were Laura, what would you have done differently in her situations?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Laura's shoes, fostering empathy and understanding. Discuss the historical context and its differences from today's world, making connections to modern life where possible. Share your own experiences with overcoming difficulties, to help relate the themes to your child's world.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience through adversity
Explanation: The story portrays Laura's family facing numerous challenges as they move across the frontier. Despite hardships, they remain strong and hopeful.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of staying positive and persistent even during difficult times, which is crucial for overcoming personal challenges in everyday life.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community
Explanation: Throughout the book, Laura’s tight-knit family and their interactions with neighboring communities underscore the importance of strong social bonds.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to value and nurture relationships with their family and friends, promoting a supportive network.
Example Lesson: Self-sufficiency
Explanation: Laura and her family often create their own solutions for problems, from building their own house to solving everyday challenges in their new homestead.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of independence and problem-solving, skills that help them become more capable and confident in their own abilities.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for nature
Explanation: The narrative details the family’s connection with the land and nature, highlighting the beauty and sustainability of the natural world.
Real-World Application: Instilling an appreciation for the environment encourages children to respect and protect natural resources in their surroundings.
Example Lesson: Historical perspective
Explanation: Set in the American frontier during the late 19th century, the book provides insights into the challenges and lifestyle of that era.
Real-World Application: Understanding historical contexts helps children develop a broader perspective of the world and enhances their appreciation for contemporary comforts and conveniences.