Silent Thunder: A Civil War Story
on Goodreads (205)
What’s inside...
Each of us has a silent thunder, a quiet desire that rumbles from deep-down. For eleven-year-old Summer and her older brother Rosco, their secret dreams seem far out of reach. Both are slaves on a Virginia plantation in the year 1862. More than anything, Summer wants to learn to read and write. Rosco is eager to join the Union Army so that he can fight for the cause that would allow all people to be free. Told in alternating voices, this is a work of historical fiction by bestselling and award-winning author Andrea Davis Pinkney.
Age
10-13
Length
224 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Summer
Rosco
Masta Giles
Discussion points
How did the main characters' experiences during the Civil War differ from each other, and what does that tell us about history?
What emotions did you feel when reading about the challenges the characters faced? How do you think you would have reacted in their situation?
How do the characters' relationships and roles in their family and community affect their actions and decisions during the war?
What can we learn from the characters' strengths and weaknesses that might help us in today's world?
Why is it important to learn about the Civil War and its impact on different people and communities?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage children to express their feelings about the book by relating the challenges faced by the characters to their own personal experiences.
Discuss the historical context of the Civil War and share how the events and decisions made during that time continue to influence our society.
Use the book’s themes to talk about the importance of courage, resilience, and hope in overcoming adversities.
Highlight the diversity of experiences during the Civil War by discussing the different backgrounds and perspectives of the characters in the book.
Ask open-ended questions that promote critical thinking and help children understand the complexity of moral decisions during conflicted times.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Silent Thunder: A Civil War Story,' the protagonist demonstrates bravery as they navigate the challenges and dangers of the Civil War era.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and stand up for what they believe is right, resembling the protagonist's courage during difficult times.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and unity
Explanation: Throughout the book, the importance of family bonds and unity is emphasized, showing how characters support each other during crisis.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of family support and togetherness in overcoming obstacles in their lives.
Example Lesson: Resilience through hard times
Explanation: The characters in the book often face severe hardships but persist and adapt to their circumstances.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to develop resilience and keep striving forward despite difficulties.
Example Lesson: Moral integrity
Explanation: Characters in the story often have to make tough choices between easy options and doing what is right, highlighting the theme of moral integrity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of making ethical decisions and acting with honesty and moral strength.