Old Jake's Skirts
What’s inside...
In 'Old Jake’s Skirts,' Old Jake discovers a trunk on the road and after unsuccessfully trying to find its owner, he opens it to find cotton calico skirts inside. Although initially puzzled, he finds that the skirts bring unexpected joy and brightness to both his farm and his own life.
Discussion points
Why do you think Old Jake chooses to wear the skirts? What do they mean to him?
How do the townspeople react to Old Jake’s skirts at first, and how does their reaction change throughout the story?
Can you think of a time when you felt different or were treated differently for being yourself? How did it make you feel?
What does the story teach us about acceptance and compassion towards others?
How would you help a friend who was being misunderstood or judged by others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, emphasizing that all opinions are valid.
Discuss the importance of individuality and respecting differences, using Old Jake as an example of someone who is true to himself.
Relate the story to real-life situations your child might encounter or has already experienced, fostering a deeper connection to the themes.
Ask your child how they would have reacted if they were a character in the book, promoting empathy and critical thinking.
Highlight key moments in the book when characters show growth or change; discuss what your child can learn from these moments.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness
Explanation: Old Jake creatively uses his skirts to solve various problems that arise, demonstrating that common items can have multiple purposes.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think outside the box and utilize what they have at hand to solve everyday problems, fostering a sense of independence.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through the narrative, readers see Old Jake's interactions with his neighbors, who learn to understand and appreciate his unique qualities and choices.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate diversity in others and to treat everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of their differences.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Old Jake's willingness to adapt his skirts for various uses shows his ability to adjust to different situations effectively.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of adapting to unexpected circumstances and making the most of what they have, encouraging resilience.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The unconventional use of skirts in the book highlights creativity in everyday life.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to use their imagination to repurpose objects and find creative solutions, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Community Involvement
Explanation: Old Jake interacts with his community through the various roles his skirts play, building a sense of community.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to engage with and contribute to their community, underscoring the importance of being active participants in their social environment.