My Travels with Capts. Lewis and Clark, by George Shannon
#17 of 3 in My America Series
What’s inside...
A fictional journal recounting the travels--from Pittsburgh to the Pacific Ocean--of sixteen-year-old George Shannon, the youngest member of Lewis and Clark's Corps of Discovery. Young George Shannon joins Lewis and Clark on their two-year trek across the Western United States in a well-researched and lavishly illustrated story full of bear attacks, raging rivers, and encounters with Native Americans.
Discussion points
How do you think George Shannon felt during his journey with Captains Lewis and Clark?
What challenges did the crew face and how did they work together to overcome them?
If you were on an exploration like this, what tools or skills would you find most valuable?
What did George learn about the different places and people he encountered?
How do explorations and adventures help us understand our world better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the story. Ask them what role they would like to have if they were part of Lewis and Clark's expedition.
Discuss the teamwork aspect of the journey. Highlight how collaboration and supporting each other are crucial in achieving goals.
Use a map to trace the route that Lewis, Clark, and George Shannon took. This can help bring the story to life and provide a visual aid that enhances understanding.
Talk about the importance of resilience and perseverance, as shown by the characters in their exploration.
Ask your child about what they would have done differently if they were leading the expedition, encouraging them to think critically and empathetically.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, George Shannon displays perseverance as he faces various challenges during the expedition with Captains Lewis and Clark.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by continuing to strive towards their goals, regardless of difficulties they encounter, enhancing their resilience in school or while learning new skills.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The book highlights the importance of working together as the characters collaborate to navigate through their journey, illustrating teamwork.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the value of cooperation and working with others to achieve common goals, which can be practiced in team sports, group projects, or family activities.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: George demonstrates courage facing unknown territories and challenges, which is a central theme in the story.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be brave when trying new activities or facing their own personal challenges, promoting personal growth and confidence.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: The exploratory nature of the journey encourages curiosity about the natural world and different cultures.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore different subjects, ask questions, and learn about diverse cultures, enhancing their knowledge and understanding of the world around them.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The story conveys respect for the environment as the characters interact with the natural world during their expedition.
Real-World Application: This can be instilled in children by teaching them the importance of environmental conservation and encouraging activities that involve caring for nature.