True Grit
on Goodreads (15)
What’s inside...
True Grit is a collection of extraordinary true stories about individuals who refused to give up and managed to survive extreme situations against all odds. The book includes accounts of remarkable feats such as American bomber pilot Louis Zamperini surviving 47 days stranded at sea by killing and eating sharks, and drinking the blood of albatrosses, only to be captured and endure years of brutal torture in a Japanese POW camp. Bear Grylls also shares the story of American Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell, who single-handedly held off a Taliban regiment while dragging his wounded body through the mountains of Afghanistan. These explorers, soldiers, and adventurers not only share courage and resilience, their experiences have also inspired Bear Grylls throughout his life. Bear Grylls, a British adventurer, author, and TV host, has accomplished feats such as being the youngest Englishman to climb Mount Everest at 23, crossing the North Atlantic in a life raft, and scaling uncharted mountains in Antarctica to raise funds for charity and promote alternative energy.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
11-12
Length
358 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What qualities do you think make someone truly courageous?
How do the characters in the story show perseverance in the face of challenges?
What can we learn from Mattie’s relationship with Rooster Cogburn?
How do the settings influence the characters’ decisions and actions in the story?
What are some decisions made by characters that you agreed or disagreed with, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, give a brief overview of the plot to set the stage. This helps your child become familiar with the storyline and characters.
While discussing the book, relate the themes to your child’s experiences, such as times when they had to show courage or make tough decisions.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings for the story based on different character decisions to enhance creative thinking.
Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of resilience and grit in overcoming obstacles.
After finishing the book, watch the film adaptation together and compare it with the book. Discuss any differences and ask which version they preferred and why.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist's relentless pursuit of justice despite numerous challenges showcases the importance of persistence.
Real-World Application: Children learn that dedication and hard work can help them overcome obstacles in school or in personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Facing adversities and recovering from setbacks, the main character demonstrates resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that it is possible to bounce back from disappointments and continue striving towards their goals.
Example Lesson: Justice
Explanation: The central theme of seeking justice emphasizes the moral responsibility to stand up for what is right.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in their daily interactions by standing up against unfairness or bullying in their environments.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: The bravery exhibited by characters when confronting dangers teaches the value of courage.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to face their fears, whether it’s trying out for a sports team, performing on stage, or standing up for a friend.