Saltypie: A Choctaw Journey from Darkness Into Light
What’s inside...
In 'Saltypie', author Tim Tingle recounts his family's journey from Oklahoma Choctaw country to Pasadena, TX, spanning 50 years. The story reveals the struggles faced by his grandmother, from her time at an Indian boarding school to hardships in her new home. Through the innocent eyes of a young boy, 'Saltypie', a critically acclaimed book, portrays the family's efforts to honor their past while adapting to modern America. Tim Tingle, a member of the Choctaw Nation, is a renowned storyteller and author, sharing stories at folklore festivals and other events. Karen Clarkson, a Choctaw artist, is known for her portraits of Native Americans.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-11
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Tim's family's stories about the past influence his understanding of identity and resilience?
Why do you think it's important to remember and share stories from our ancestors?
What emotions did you feel when learning about Tim's grandmother's experiences and how the family coped with challenges?
In what ways do you think understanding one’s own history can impact a person’s future?
How can we apply the lessons of courage and perseverance from the book to our own lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story without interruption. Validate their feelings and share your own reflections to deepen the connection. Use the historical aspects of the book as a teaching moment to discuss your family's history and resilience. Lastly, relate the themes of the book to current events or personal challenges to emphasize their relevance and teach problem-solving strategies.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The story showcases the protagonist's journey and the challenges faced by his family, highlighting their strength and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to navigate their own hardships with courage and can understand that facing challenges is a part of life and growth.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and heritage
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes the significance of family bonds and cultural heritage, as seen through the protagonist's relationship with his family members.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to value and respect their family history and traditions, fostering a sense of identity and belonging.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The book portrays the challenges faced by the protagonist's grandmother, allowing children to see the world from another person's perspective.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop empathy, enabling them to understand and share the feelings of others in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage to confront and resolve conflicts
Explanation: Characters in the book face and overcome various conflicts, illustrating how confronting issues directly can lead to resolution.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing problems rather than avoiding them, applicable in conflicts with peers or challenges at school.