My America
on Goodreads (151)
What’s inside...
In 1903, Maureen, originally from Ireland, comes to Boston to live with her old friend Sofia and her Italian-American family, where the two girls share fifth grade class together and various adventures. Simultaneous.
Why read this book
- Captures America's diverse cultural and historical tapestry.
- Engaging narrative that fosters curiosity and knowledge.
- Encourages empathy and understanding of different perspectives.
- Beautifully illustrated, enhancing visual learning.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do the different stories in 'My America' help you understand what life was like for people in the past?
What similarities and differences do you see between your life and the lives of the children featured in this book?
Which story in 'My America' was the most impactful for you and why?
How do you think the experiences of these characters shaped who they became?
If you could meet any of the characters from the book, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about how history shapes us by asking them to relate the stories in the book to their own experiences.
Discuss the emotions and challenges faced by the characters to help your child develop empathy and understanding of diverse perspectives.
Use the book as a starting point to explore more about American history together, possibly through documentaries, museum visits, or further reading.
After reading each story, ask your child to draw a picture or write a short paragraph about their favorite moment, helping them connect more deeply with the book's themes.
Highlight the resilience and courage demonstrated by the characters, discussing with your child how they can apply these qualities in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'My America', the diverse backgrounds of characters provide a platform to explore different cultural and personal perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and understand people from different backgrounds, encouraging inclusivity and compassion in their day-to-day interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of History and Ancestry
Explanation: The story emphasizes the value of one’s heritage through the journeys of the characters exploring their ancestry.
Real-World Application: It inspires children to discover and take pride in their own family histories, fostering a sense of identity and belonging.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: The characters in the book face various challenges but manage to overcome them through perseverance and courage.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to face their own challenges with determination and to not be discouraged by setbacks.
Example Lesson: The Power of Stories
Explanation: The narrative showcases how stories connect people and pass on important lessons and morals.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of storytelling in preserving culture and morals, encouraging them to share their own stories and listen to others’.
Example Lesson: Civic Awareness and Participation
Explanation: Characters in the book engage with their communities and contribute positively, teaching governance and civic responsibility.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to be proactive members of their communities, understanding the importance of civic duties and participation.