Night Fires
on Goodreads (165)
What’s inside...
In 1922, thirteen-year-old Woodrow Harper and his recently-widowed mother move to his father's childhood home in Lawton, Oklahoma, where he is torn between the "right people" of the Ku Klux Klan and those who encourage him to follow the path of his "nigra-loving" father. An unflinching look at a painful chapter in America’s past, Woodrow finds a father figure in his new neighbor, Senator Crawford, who offers comfort and understanding. However, beneath the surface of Lawton lie ugly secrets, and Woodrow's need for approval from the senator may lead him to make choices he will regret.
Age
8-12
Length
192 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Woodrow Harper
Mr. Harper
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt when facing challenges? What would you do in a similar situation?
Why do you think friendship is an important theme in 'Night Fires'? Can you share a story about a time a friend helped you?
What are some ways the characters in the book show courage? How can we show courage in our daily lives?
How did the setting of the story influence the events? What role does our environment play in our choices?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personal experiences to those of the characters, enhancing empathy and understanding.
Discuss the historical context of the book to give deeper insights into the challenges the characters face.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next at various points in the story to foster critical thinking.
Link discussions about the book's themes to real-world events or personal values, making the conversation more relevant and impactful.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and addressing racial prejudices
Explanation: In 'Night Fires,' the protagonist confronts the ingrained racism of his community when he realizes the implications of his father's involvement with the Ku Klux Klan.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children recognize and question racial prejudices they may encounter, encouraging them to form their own views about equality and justice.
Example Lesson: The importance of standing up for what is right
Explanation: The main character, despite the pressures and risks, chooses to stand against his father's and the community's racist actions, illustrating moral courage.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this to their own lives by standing up against bullying or unfair treatment of others in school or their community.
Example Lesson: The impact of historical context on people's lives
Explanation: Set in the post-World War I era, the book gives insights into the social dynamics of the time, helping the protagonist and readers understand the roots of some present-day issues.
Real-World Application: This understanding can help children analyze how history shapes societal beliefs and behaviors, fostering a deeper appreciation for contemporary social issues.
Example Lesson: Personal growth through challenging experiences
Explanation: As the protagonist confronts harsh truths about his family and community, he experiences significant personal growth and a shift in his worldviews.
Real-World Application: This shows children that difficult experiences can lead to personal development and a better understanding of the world around them.