Next Spring an Oriole (A Stepping Stone Book(TM))
#1 of 15 in Time Of The Eagle Series
on Goodreads (144)
What’s inside...
Historical fiction at an easy level is hard to find, and this pioneer story, narrated by 10-year-old Libby Mitchell on her journey from Virginia to Michigan in 1837, is smoothly written and appealing. The wagon trail is not easy, and Whelan is careful to include a taste of the hardships. She's also careful in her presentation of the Potawatomi Indians, who figure in the story when the Mitchells nurse one of their own children back to health. The story, though brief, is well developed.--Bulletin, Center for Children's Books.From the Trade Paperback edition.
Discussion points
How do you think Libby felt moving to a new place? What would you do in her situation?
What can we learn from the way Libby interacts with her new environment and the people she meets?
Why do you think the author chose an oriole to represent the arrival of spring? What does the oriole symbolize in the story?
What are some differences and similarities between your life and Libby’s life in the 1800s?
How does the setting influence the story? Can you imagine the story taking place somewhere else?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to put themselves in Libby’s shoes, discussing how they would feel and react in similar situations.
Highlight the historical and cultural aspects of the story to enrich your child's understanding of the past.
Discuss the symbolism in the book, like the oriole, to deepen your child’s appreciation of literary devices.
Compare and contrast activities can be helpful, such as drawing parallels between your child's daily life and Libby’s life in the story.
Use the setting as a springboard to explore geographic and historical education, perhaps even looking at maps or photos of similar locales from the period.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Adaptability in new environments
Explanation: The protagonist, Libby, moves to Michigan with her family and learns to adjust to a new environment and community.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of being open to change and finding ways to adapt, whether it’s moving to a new school or trying out a different activity.
Example Lesson: Understanding diverse cultures
Explanation: Libby befriends a local Chippewa girl, Fawn, and through their friendship, learns about the Chippewa culture.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be curious and respectful towards people from different backgrounds and cultures in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Courage in facing difficulties
Explanation: Throughout the book, Libby faces various challenges, including the initial discomfort of settling into a new place and feeling out of place.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to confront their own challenges with courage, understanding that facing fears is part of growing up.
Example Lesson: Value of friendships
Explanation: The friendship between Libby and Fawn highlights the mutual support and understanding they offer each other, showing the positive impact of having good friends.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to build and maintain supportive friendships and teach them the benefits of having trust and support among peers.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of nature
Explanation: The book’s setting in a Michigan forest allows Libby to explore and appreciate the natural world around her.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to explore the outdoors and learn more about the environment, promoting a lifelong respect and care for nature.