Teetoncey (Cape Hatteras Trilogy)
#1 of 3 in The Cape Hatteras Trilogy Series
on Goodreads (92)
What’s inside...
In 1898, twelve-year-old Ben rescues a near-drowned girl from a shipwreck off the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Although the girl, named Teetoncey, becomes part of his family, she will not utter a single word.
Character compass
Ben O'Neal
Teetoncey
Mrs. Georgie O'Neal
Discussion points
What did you think about Ben's decision to help Teetoncey? How would you have reacted in his situation?
How do the characters in the book show courage and compassion? Can you share a time when you acted courageously?
What did you learn about life by the sea from the descriptions in the book? How does it compare to where we live?
Why do you think the community is so important in 'Teetoncey'? How does our community support us?
How do the events in the story show the importance of understanding and forgiveness?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, share your own feelings and thoughts about the story's themes to model open expression.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stood out to them. This can help them articulate their thoughts and connect more deeply with the reading.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book. This can help them engage visually and make the themes more concrete.
Relate the courage shown by characters in the book to personal family stories where courage was key, enhancing their connection to the text.
After reading, suggest re-enacting a scene from the book. It’s a fun way to help them remember details and dive deeper into character analysis.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: In 'Teetoncey', characters frequently encounter challenges such as harsh weather conditions and isolation, yet they demonstrate perseverance to overcome them.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to maintain determination and a positive attitude even when they face difficulties at school or in their personal lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of community support
Explanation: The tight-knit coastal community in the story often bands together to help one another, showcasing how collective effort can achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in community activities, understand the value of helping others, and see how teamwork can lead to successful outcomes.
Example Lesson: Cultural respect and understanding
Explanation: The book presents characters from diverse backgrounds, and highlights how understanding and respecting different cultures enrich one’s life.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to be open and interested in learning about different cultures, promoting diversity and inclusion in their own interactions.
Example Lesson: Caring for the environment
Explanation: The story’s setting along the Cape Hatteras coast emphasizes the beauty and fragility of the natural environment, urging a respect and stewardship for it.
Real-World Application: Children can adopt habits that protect and preserve their natural surroundings, such as recycling, conserving water, or participating in local clean-up days.