Freewater
on Goodreads (4,964)
What’s inside...
A middle-grade novel about two enslaved children’s escape from a plantation and the many ways they find freedom. Under the cover of night, twelve-year-old Homer flees Southerland Plantation with his little sister Ada, unwillingly leaving their beloved mother behind. Much as he adores her and fears for her life, Homer knows there’s no turning back, not with the overseer on their trail. Through tangled vines, secret doorways, and over a sky bridge, the two find a secret community called Freewater, deep in the swamp. In this society created by formerly enslaved people and some freeborn children, Homer finds new friends, almost forgetting where he came from. But when he learns of a threat that could destroy Freewater, he crafts a plan to find his mother and help his new home. Winner of the John Newbery Medal, Winner of the Coretta Scott King Author Award, An Indiebound Bestseller
Discussion points
What do you think life was like for the characters in Freewater? How do you think you would feel if you were in their situation?
The community of Freewater was built by people who escaped enslavement. What qualities do you think they needed to have to create such a community?
How do the characters in the book show courage and teamwork? Can you give an example from the book where you noticed these traits?
What did you learn about history from reading Freewater? Was there anything that surprised you?
How do the characters change from the beginning of the book to the end? What do you think caused these changes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions to encourage your child to think deeply about the story and its implications. This not only enhances comprehension but also empathy.
Connect the themes of the book to real-life experiences or current events to make the discussion more relevant and engaging for the child.
Praise your child for their insights and encourage them to relate the challenges and solutions in the book to their own lives.
Discuss the historical context of the book, which can help your child understand the significance of the events and decisions made by the characters.
Encourage your child to consider different perspectives by asking how they would feel or react in a similar situation as the characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Freewater,' the characters, especially the young ones, demonstrate immense bravery as they navigate their lives in a hidden community of escaped slaves. Their courage is vividly depicted as they protect and preserve their freedom against external threats.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of standing up for themselves and others, even in challenging situations. This can help them tackle everyday obstacles such as bullying or peer pressure with bravery and determination.
Example Lesson: The value of community and cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters rely on each other to maintain their secret settlement, showcasing the strength found in unity and teamwork.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of working together with others to achieve common goals, whether in school projects, sports teams, or family activities, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: The residents of Freewater exhibit resilience as they cultivate a life of freedom, despite the constant threats looming over them. Their perseverance in creating a peaceful community from the ground up is a central theme.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to keep pushing forward and striving for their goals, no matter the difficulties they face, whether it’s in their studies, hobbies, or personal growth.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: The characters often engage in strategic planning and quick thinking to navigate the dangers they face, highlighting the importance of intellectual empowerment.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these skills in their own lives by learning to assess situations, think critically about solutions, and make informed decisions, which are crucial skills in academic and social settings.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through their interactions and shared experiences, the characters in 'Freewater' deepen their understanding of each other’s struggles, which fosters empathy.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be considerate and empathetic towards others' feelings and perspectives, enhancing their emotional intelligence and improving their interpersonal relationships.