Dear Levi: Letters from the Overland Trail: Letters from the Overland Trail (Dear Levi Series)
#1 in Dear Levi Series
on Goodreads (254)
What’s inside...
In 1851, 12-year-old orphan Austin Ives joins a wagon train headed for California. As he makes his way across the country, Austin writes home to his brother Levi, describing life on the rugged Overland Trail. Extensively researched, with episodes based on true incidents, 'the epistolary format and character development offer solid reading.'--Booklist An IRA Teachers' Choice
Character compass
Austin
Discussion points
How do you think Austin felt when he was writing letters to his brother Levi? What emotions can you identify?
What challenges did Austin face during his journey on the Overland Trail and how did he try to overcome them?
How does the setting of the Overland Trail influence the events in the story? Can you imagine what life would have been like during that time?
Why is communication through letters important in the story? How do you think it affects the characters’ relationships?
What lessons can we learn from Austin's experiences and decisions during his journey?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Austin's adventures and the difficulties he faced, reinforcing empathy and understanding.
Discuss the historical context of the Overland Trail and how it impacted the characters, enhancing their comprehension of the setting and its challenges.
Relate the themes of perseverance and family bonds in the book to personal experiences, making connections that are meaningful to your child's life.
Highlight the emotional impact of the characters' experiences, prompting your child to explore and articulate their own emotions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Levi, faces numerous challenges on the perilous Overland Trail. His ability to persevere through difficult circumstances demonstrates resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to maintain a positive attitude and keep trying even when facing difficulties in school or social scenarios.
Example Lesson: Importance of family bonds
Explanation: Throughout the journey, the letters Levi writes and receives highlight the strong connections and mutual support within his family.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to value and nurture relationships with their family members, understanding the strength that can be drawn from loved ones.
Example Lesson: Historical empathy
Explanation: By exploring the historical context of the 1850s American West through Levi’s experiences, readers gain an understanding of the challenges people faced during that time.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this empathy towards people in different times and situations, leading to a broader, more inclusive perspective on history and current events.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Levi encounters various problems that require creative solutions, from navigating treacherous paths to dealing with daily survival challenges.
Real-World Application: Children learn that breaking down big problems into smaller, manageable parts can help them tackle homework challenges or resolve conflicts with peers.
Example Lesson: Persistence in achieving goals
Explanation: Levi’s determination to reach his brother in California, despite the obstacles, exemplifies the importance of setting and pursuing long-term goals.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to set their own goals, such as improving a skill or completing a large project, and persistently working towards achieving them.