Days of Little Texas
on Goodreads (191)
What’s inside...
A ghostly love story from the author of Teach Me. Welcome, all ye faithful and otherwise to a ghost story, a romance, and a reckoning unlike anything you've read before. Acclaimed YA author R. A. Nelson delivers a tantalizing tale set in the environs of the evangelical revival circuit and centered around Ronald Earl, who at ten became the electrifying boy wonder preacher known as Little Texas. Now sixteen, though the faithful still come and roar with praise and devotion, Ronald Earl is beginning to have doubts that he is worthy of and can continue his calling. Doubts that only intensify when his faith and life are tested by a mysterious girl who he was supposed to have healed, but who is now showing up at the fringe of every stop on the circuit. Is she merely devoted, or is she haunting him? Fascinating and original, this is an unusual story whose reverb will be deeply felt and which will inspire lively book discussion. From the Hardcover edition.
Age
12-15
Length
402 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Ronald Earl (Little Texas)
Wanda Joy
Lucy
Discussion points
What do you think Little Texas was feeling when he encountered the supernatural elements? What would you feel in his situation?
How do the relationships in the book evolve? Which relationship was most interesting to you and why?
The setting of the story plays a significant role in shaping the events. How does the setting affect the characters and their actions?
If you had the opportunity to give Little Texas advice at any point in the book, what would you say to him?
How do the themes of redemption and facing one's past play out through the story? Can you think of any examples from your own life or someone else's that relate?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own impressions of the book and encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story. Use open-ended questions to foster a deeper understanding of the character's motivations and the story's themes. Discuss the supernatural elements creatively, exploring what they symbolize and how they drive the story forward. Relate the themes of the book, like redemption and courage, to real-life situations or decisions to make them more relatable to your child. Encourage your child to imagine alternative scenarios or endings to develop their analytical and creative thinking skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of self-discovery
Explanation: The protagonist’s journey reflects the struggle of finding one's true self amidst challenging circumstances and external expectations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value their personal experiences and feelings, understanding that self-discovery is a crucial part of growing up.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: Throughout the book, choices made by the characters lead to various outcomes, illustrating the cause and effect relationship of decisions.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to think critically about the potential outcomes of their choices and to act responsibly.
Example Lesson: Forgiveness and redemption
Explanation: Characters in the story learn to forgive themselves and others, showcasing the healing power of forgiveness and the opportunity for redemption.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these ideas by learning to forgive themselves and others in real-life conflicts, promoting emotional growth and understanding.
Example Lesson: Overcoming fear and doubt
Explanation: The book depicts the protagonist’s internal battles with fear and self-doubt, eventually overcoming them through courage and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to face their own fears and doubts, understanding that courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.