Tuttle's Red Barn
What’s inside...
Tuttle's Red Barn tells the story of the oldest family farm in New Hampshire, owned by the Tuttle family. The book traces the family's history from the original settlement in 1632 to the present day, highlighting the challenges and changes they faced. The Tuttle family witnessed the settlement and expansion of New England, fought in the American Revolution, helped runaway slaves along the Underground Railroad, and sold maple syrup to Abraham Lincoln. Over the generations, they transformed their farm and barn into a thriving country store. With evocative woodcuts by Caldecott Medalist Mary Azarian and moving prose by Richard Michelson, readers will experience a panorama of American history through the eyes of the Tuttle family.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-9
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about how the Tuttle family worked together on their farm?
How do you think the changing seasons affected the farm and the family?
What are some ways the Tuttles adapted their farm over the generations?
How do you feel about the traditions passed down in the Tuttle family?
What would you do if you were part of the Tuttle family?
Tip: Role play these questions
To deepen your child's connection to 'Tuttle’s Red Barn,' relate the family’s story to your own family traditions and history. Ask your child about their favorite family memory and compare it to the experiences of the Tuttles. Encourage them to think about how places hold memories and how they might want to contribute to their own family’s legacy. This will not only enhance their understanding but also their appreciation for familial bonds and history.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of hard work and perseverance
Explanation: The story depicts the Tuttle family's dedication to maintaining their farm through various challenges over generations.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of dedication and effort in achieving long-term goals, which can be applied in school projects or personal tasks.
Example Lesson: Respect for history and heritage
Explanation: The book highlights the significance of the farm being the oldest family-run farm in America, teaching about the preservation of legacy.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value and preserve their family customs, traditions, and learn about their ancestral history.
Example Lesson: Adaptation to change
Explanation: As the story progresses, each generation of the Tuttle family adapts to new farming techniques and societal changes while keeping the farm alive.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being flexible and adapting to changes in their environment, whether it's transitioning to a new school or tackling new technologies.
Example Lesson: The importance of family unity and collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the book, the Tuttle family works together to overcome obstacles, demonstrating strong family bonds and teamwork.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of working cooperatively with others, encouraging better teamwork at home with siblings and in school group projects.