An American Story
illustrations by
on Goodreads (1,524)
What’s inside...
#1 New York Times Bestselling and award-winning author Kwame Alexander pens a powerful picture book that tells the story of American slavery through the voice of a teacher struggling to help her students understand its harrowing history. From the fireside tales in an African village, through the unspeakable passage across the Atlantic, to the backbreaking work in the fields of the South, this book is a story of a people's struggle, strength, horror, and hope. It is a testament to the resilience of the African American community, honoring the past and envisioning the future. Featuring stunning mixed-media illustrations by Dare Coulter, the book is an ideal resource for family sharing, classrooms, and homeschooling, and is a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award Book.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
56 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some differences and similarities you noticed between your life and the characters in 'An American Story'?
How did the character's journey make you feel? Can you relate to any of their experiences?
What do you think the main message of the story is, and why is it important?
If you could ask the author one question about the book, what would it be?
What are some ways you can apply the lessons from this book in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story without interrupting them. Show interest in their perspective by asking follow-up questions based on their responses. Connect parts of the book to real-life situations or family stories to make the discussion more relatable. Praise their insights and encourage them to think critically about the themes and messages of the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Family
Explanation: The story emphasizes the strength and support family members provide to each other during challenging times.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and rely on their family members, fostering a supportive home environment.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Characters in the book face significant challenges but show how resilience can lead to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Kids understand that difficult times are temporary and that perseverance is key to success.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Cultural Heritage
Explanation: The narrative celebrates the rich cultural backgrounds of its characters, teaching children to take pride in their own heritage.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and embrace their cultural roots, which can boost their self-esteem and sense of identity.
Example Lesson: Empathy Towards Others
Explanation: Through character interactions, the book explores themes of empathy and understanding towards others' feelings and situations.
Real-World Application: Helps children develop compassion and empathy, improving their social interactions and emotional intelligence.