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Accelerated Reader Quiz available: #117017Eleven-year-old Solomon Freeman and his parents, newly freed slaves, are building a homestead in north Florida's wilderness, living their dream of independence. Their battle to survive is filled with harsh difficulties in this wild and fickle new home, and they all work long, hard days. Solomon's father, Moses, dreams of his only son sharing his love for the land. Lela, his mother, tries to shield Solomon from his father's expectations, for she knows that the boy's heart is not in the fields.Solomon is a natural woodsman, good at fishing and hunting. Though these skills bring food to their meager table, Moses wants his son to concentrate on farming. Further distancing father and son is the arrival of a refined Virginian brandishing a fifteen-foot whip with deadly precision. Solomon is captivated by the man and the whip while Moses despises the whip and dreads his son's fascination with the newcomer. Lela struggles to make a home, keep peace between her husband and son, and continue Solomon's education as they fight to survive.When the chance comes to go on a cattle drive, Solomon jumps at it-though his parents are reluctant to let him go. He confronts a new world as he rides a Florida marshtackie horse, wields his whip rounding up a large herd of wild cattle, and brings them to market at the coast-where he sees sights he had never dreamed existed.Are the Freemans strong enough to build a successful homestead? Will they be welcomed in this hard place where blacks have only been slaves in years past? Will the family seal its bond through shared hardship or splinter irreparably? Does Solomon have the wisdom he needs to face challenges beyond his years and see the family through its perils?See all of the books in this series
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-14
Length
204 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Solomon's feelings change throughout the story and what caused those changes?
What do you think was the most important lesson Solomon learned? Why?
Can you think of a time when you felt similar to Solomon? What happened and how did you handle it?
Why do you think friendship was important in the story?
How do you think Solomon felt at the end of the book? What gives you that idea?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to convey the emotions of Solomon, emphasizing changes in mood to help your child understand the character's development.
Pause after significant events or turning points in the story to ask your child how they think the character is feeling, encouraging them to empathize.
Relate the story's themes to your child's experiences, asking them to draw parallels between their life and Solomon's journey.
Discuss the decisions made by characters in the book and ask your child what they would have done differently, fostering critical thinking.
Highlight the importance of the outcomes in the book and connect them to real-life consequences and the importance of making thoughtful choices.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Sharing
Explanation: In the book 'Solomon,' the main character learns the value of sharing his belongings with others, which leads to positive relationships and happiness.
Real-World Application: Children can practice sharing their toys or snacks with friends at school or siblings at home, fostering a generous spirit and cooperative interactions.
Example Lesson: Respecting Differences
Explanation: Solomon encounters various characters who are different from him. Throughout the story, he learns to respect and appreciate these differences, which enriches his experiences.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to embrace diversity among peers, understanding that everyone's unique qualities contribute to a vibrant community.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: When faced with challenges, Solomon creatively thinks of solutions, demonstrating the effectiveness of problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children can use problem-solving strategies when they encounter obstacles in schoolwork or interpersonal relationships, enhancing their critical thinking and resilience.
Example Lesson: Courage to Try New Things
Explanation: The story shows Solomon hesitantly trying new activities but finding joy and self-confidence when he does.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to engage in new experiences, whether a new sport, hobby, or making new friends, can lead to personal growth and self-discovery.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: Solomon learns that friendships are built on trust and kindness, and these relationships bring support and joy to his life.
Real-World Application: Teaching children to nurture friendships by being reliable and kind can help them build strong, supportive networks.