Dear Austin: Letters from the Underground Railroad: Letters from the Underground Railroad (Dear Levi Series)
#2 in Dear Levi Series
What’s inside...
Now in paperback! In this companion novel to Dear Levi, told in letters, 11-year-old Levi helps a young African American in a harrowing flight for freedom along the Underground Railroad. From the Trade Paperback edition.
Character compass
Levi Ives
Jupiter
Darcy
Harriet Tubman
Discussion points
How do you think Levi felt when he was helping slaves escape through the Underground Railroad?
Why is it important to help others, even if it's dangerous or difficult?
What would you have done if you were in Levi's situation?
How do you think the letters helped Levi and Austin stay connected?
What did you learn about courage and friendship from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the conversation, read the book together or ensure your child has read it. Familiarity with the story will make the discussion more meaningful.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, even if they differ from your own. This promotes critical thinking and empathy.
Connect the story to real-life experiences or historical events to deepen your child’s understanding and engagement.
Highlight the values of courage, friendship, and justice that are evident in the book, asking your child how they can apply these values in their own life.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to encourage deeper reflection and discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through the letters depicting the struggles and fears of those on the Underground Railroad, children learn to empathize with the characters’ experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing more compassion and understanding towards others who may come from different backgrounds or face various challenges.
Example Lesson: Courage and bravery
Explanation: The book showcases characters who display immense courage by risking their lives for freedom, inspiring bravery.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to face their own fears and stand up for what they believe is right, whether in confronting a bully or defending a friend.
Example Lesson: Historical awareness
Explanation: ‘Dear Austin’ provides a personal glimpse into a pivotal time in American history, making the past more accessible and relatable to young readers.
Real-World Application: Understanding historical contexts can help children appreciate the freedoms they enjoy today and the importance of preserving these rights for everyone.
Example Lesson: Importance of literacy
Explanation: The use of letters in the narrative underscores the power and importance of reading and writing as a form of communication and documentation.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to improve their own literacy skills, understanding that writing and reading are fundamental tools for expression and change.
Example Lesson: The strength of human spirit
Explanation: Characters in the story demonstrate resilience and hope in the face of adversity, a testament to the enduring human spirit.
Real-World Application: Children learn about resilience and the capacity to maintain hope and positivity, even during difficult times, which can help them in personal challenges and setbacks.