My America: An American Spring, Sofia's Immigrant Diary (Book 3)
#3 of 3 in My America Series
on Goodreads (150)
What’s inside...
In 1903, Maureen, originally from Ireland, comes to Boston to live with her old friend Sofia and her Italian-American family. Together, they attend fifth grade and share various adventures. Sofia, in her third and final diary, continues to face the hardships of her new life in America with a cheerful and courageous spirit. She chronicles life in her new home in the North End of Boston, as her parents open their own store and describes the daily hardships and joys of being a new American.
Discussion points
How did Sofia's experiences as an immigrant make you feel about her struggles and achievements?
What similarities and differences do you see between Sofia’s life and yours?
Why do you think Sofia's family decided to move to America, and how do their dreams and hopes compare to what people might seek today?
How do you think the diary format helps us understand Sofia’s feelings and thoughts better?
What did you learn about American history and culture during Sofia's time? How does it compare to what you know about present-day America?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about Sofia’s journey, focusing on her emotions and resilience.
Compare and contrast your family's own stories or histories with Sofia's, discussing any parallels or significant differences to help personalize the historical context.
Discuss the importance of hope and determination, as shown by Sofia's family, reinforcing these values with examples from your child’s life.
Create a timeline with your child, mapping out key events from the book alongside current events to enhance historical understanding and relevance.
Encourage your child to keep a diary for a week, writing about their daily experiences and feelings, to relate personally to Sofia’s narrative style and explore self-expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Sofia, the protagonist, consistently demonstrates courage and perseverance as she navigates the challenges of being an immigrant in America.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace challenges and persist through difficulties, whether in school or social settings.
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation and understanding
Explanation: Through Sofia’s interactions and experiences, readers gain insights into different cultural backgrounds and the importance of accepting and respecting diversity.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to explore and appreciate diverse cultures, fostering a more inclusive mindset from a young age.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and support systems
Explanation: The story emphasizes the strength Sofia draws from her family and friends, highlighting how crucial a loving support network is during tough times.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of maintaining strong relationships with family and friends, and being supportive of others in their community.
Example Lesson: Historical context and empathy
Explanation: Set in a significant historical period, the book allows children to understand the past struggles of immigrants, building empathy and historical awareness.
Real-World Application: This can help children appreciate history and encourage them to be empathetic towards people from different backgrounds and times.
Example Lesson: Personal growth through journaling
Explanation: Sofia records her thoughts and experiences in a diary, illustrating how journaling can be a tool for self-expression and reflection.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to start keeping a journal to articulate feelings, document experiences and reflect on personal growth.