A Snake Falls to Earth
on Goodreads (11,299)
What’s inside...
Nina is a Lipan girl in our world who believes in the old stories, while Oli is a cottonmouth kid from a land of spirits and monsters. Unaware of each other's existence, a catastrophic event on Earth and a sickness affecting Oli's friend brings their worlds together in unexpected ways. Darcie Little Badger uses traditional Lipan Apache storytelling to craft a tale of monsters, magic, and family in 'A Snake Falls to Earth', which has received critical acclaim including a Newbery Honor and National Book Award Longlist recognition.
Age
10-14
Length
384 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Nina
Oli
Risk
Rosita
Discussion points
What do you think Nina and Oli learned from each other's worlds?
How do the characters in the story show bravery and kindness?
Why is it important to listen to and understand stories from different cultures?
What role do animals play in the story, and how do they influence the events?
How did overcoming challenges help the characters grow?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the characters' journeys, affirming their interpretations and drawing parallels to their own experiences.
Discuss the significance of cultural heritage and the environment, emphasizing the importance of empathy and respect for different viewpoints.
Use the interaction between humans and animals in the book as a way to explore topics like conservation, kindness, and mutual support.
Highlight the resilience and change shown by characters, prompting your child to think about how they cope with their own challenges.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'A Snake Falls to Earth', Darcie Little Badger introduces characters from different backgrounds and species who learn to understand and empathize with each other’s struggles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect differences among their peers, promoting inclusivity and understanding in diverse settings.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Adaptability
Explanation: The protagonist, Nina, faces various challenges and changes to her environment, showcasing her resilience and adaptability.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to stay strong and adapt to new situations, whether it's moving to a new school or dealing with changes at home.
Example Lesson: Importance of Heritage and Ancestral Knowledge
Explanation: The story emphasizes the significance of Nina's Lipan Apache heritage and how ancestral knowledge aids the characters.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of their own family histories and cultural backgrounds, encouraging them to explore and take pride in their heritage.
Example Lesson: Connection to Nature and Environmental Stewardship
Explanation: Through its narrative involving animal characters and natural settings, the book highlights the importance of caring for the environment.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand their role in protecting the environment, fostering early responsibilities like recycling and conserving water.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face the Unknown
Explanation: Nina and other characters embark on journeys that lead them into unfamiliar territories, both physically and emotionally.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the courage to explore new experiences, face fears, and embrace opportunities for growth and learning.