In The High Valley (Illustrated) (Katy Did Book 5)
#5 in Carr Family Series
on Goodreads (762)
What’s inside...
In 'In The High Valley', the fifth book in the 'Katy Did' series by Susan Coolidge, the story follows the lives of Clover and Elsie Carr as they embark on a new adventure in the American West. The sisters move to the High Valley in Colorado, where Clover's husband, Clarence Page, has a cattle ranch. The novel explores the challenges and joys of pioneer life, as Clover adapts to her role as a rancher's wife and Elsie finds her own path. The picturesque setting and the characters' personal growth are central to the narrative, as they build their homes and form a tight-knit community. The book, illustrated to enhance the reading experience, continues the themes of family, friendship, and the pursuit of happiness that are prevalent throughout the 'Katy Did' series. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
Character compass
Imogen Young
Geoff Templestowe
Lionel Young
Katy Carr
Clover Templestowe
Discussion points
What do you think made Clover and Elsie decide to move to the High Valley? How would you feel if you were moving to a new place?
How do the characters in the story show courage and adaptability in dealing with their new surroundings?
What can we learn from the interactions between different characters? Is there a character you admire most?
How do the descriptions of the landscape in the High Valley make you feel? Can you imagine what it looks like?
If you could add another chapter to the story, what would happen next?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts about the book to open up a two-way dialogue. Use open-ended questions that help your child express their feelings and thoughts about the story. Relate the themes of the book to your child’s own experiences to make the discussion more relatable. Encourage your child to imagine beyond the book by asking what they would add or change in the story. Compliment your child’s responses to reinforce their confidence in expressing their views.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'In The High Valley', characters demonstrate responsibility through managing a ranch and making community-oriented decisions. The narrative showcases the importance of taking ownership and accountability for one's actions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by taking charge of their own tasks such as cleaning their room, completing homework, or caring for a pet, understanding that their actions directly impact those around them.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The characters in the book face various challenges while settling in the West, but they persist and overcome obstacles. This persistence in the face of difficulties is a recurring theme.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of continuing to try even when things are tough. Applying this in schoolwork, sports, or learning a new skill can help them achieve their goals despite difficulties.
Example Lesson: Community Building
Explanation: The storyline promotes the importance of community as characters work together to build a supportive and thriving environment.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to contribute positively to their own communities, whether in school, neighborhood, or among friends, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The book's setting in a high valley emphasizes the beauty and respect for natural surroundings, teaching the characters (and the readers) about the importance of environmental conservation.
Real-World Application: This can help instill a lifelong respect for nature in children, encouraging them to participate in environmental protection activities and be conscious of their environmental impact.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Characters are often faced with new challenges and opportunities in the unfamiliar territory and must adapt quickly.
Real-World Application: This highlights the importance of adaptability in a child's life, encouraging them to embrace changes and new experiences, such as moving to a new school or trying out a different sport.