The Dulcimer Boy
What’s inside...
The Dulcimer Boy is a touching tale by Tor Seidler that follows the journey of two orphaned brothers, Julian and Huey, who are separated at a young age. Julian, the older brother, is adopted by a wealthy family, while Huey, who is mute, is left behind in the orphanage. Despite their separation, Julian remains deeply connected to his brother through the dulcimer, a stringed musical instrument left to them by their mother. As Julian grows up in a life of privilege, he never forgets Huey and the bond they share. The story explores themes of love, loss, and the enduring connection between siblings as Julian eventually sets out to find Huey and reunite with him. The Dulcimer Boy is a poignant narrative that delves into the complexities of family and the power of music to transcend circumstances and bring people together.
Age
10-12
Length
160 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think William felt when he discovered the truth about his family?
What do you think the dulcimer symbolizes in the story?
Why do you think Jules and William made different choices despite growing up together?
How do important decisions shape our lives according to the story?
What did you learn about the importance of family and belonging from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts about the story’s themes, such as family and resilience, to encourage a two-way conversation.
Ask your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stood out to them, which can lead to deeper discussion on the book’s themes.
Encourage your child to think about how the characters developed throughout the story and relate it to their own experiences of growth or change.
Discuss the setting of the story and how it influences the characters, enhancing their understanding of the book’s context.
Use the dulcimer as a metaphor to explore other symbols they might have come across in different stories or their everyday life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The story explores the bond between twins Jem and Dancy, showcasing their inherent understanding and compassion towards each other.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of empathy by recognizing and respecting the feelings and perspectives of others in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: Jem's journey to find his lost brother highlights his perseverance and resilience in overcoming obstacles and challenges.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to stay determined and optimistic even when faced with difficulties, teaching them the value of persistence.
Example Lesson: Value of Creativity and Art
Explanation: The dulcimer, a key element in the tale, symbolizes the beauty and emotional expression through art, influencing the character's lives deeply.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore and appreciate various forms of art, understanding that creativity is a profound way to express oneself and connect with others.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: Characters in the story face various consequences based on their decisions, teaching readers about responsibility.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children comprehend the importance of making thoughtful decisions and understanding the impact of their actions on themselves and others.