Toning the Sweep
on Goodreads (462)
What’s inside...
Set in the California desert, this story revolves around three generations of black women: 14-year-old Emily, her mother Diane, and her terminally ill grandmother Ola. As the three women gather at Ola's home to prepare for her move to Cleveland, they share stories of grief and resilience. Emily learns the ritual of 'toning the sweep,' a way to honor the deceased through sound. The narrative, which won the 1994 Coretta Scott King Award, is a poignant exploration of mourning, healing, and the power of family stories in shaping one’s identity.
Age
11-12
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Emily
Diane
Ola
Discussion points
How do you think Emily felt when she had to move and leave her friends behind?
What do you think the desert symbolizes in Emily's journey with her family?
What are some ways the characters in the story show strength and adaptability?
How do the family’s memories influence their relationships?
Why is it important to stay connected with our family history and legacies?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to relate to Emily’s feelings and experiences.
Discuss the significance of memory and history, inviting your child to share their own cherished family memories.
Explore the themes of resilience and adaptability together, providing real-life examples from family or community.
Cultivate an understanding of metaphor through the desert setting, leading to deeper literary appreciation.
Prompt your child to think about the importance of family ties and how they shape personal identity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Coping with change and loss
Explanation: The protagonist, Emily, navigates through the emotional landscape of losing a loved one and moving to a new place, embodying resilience and adaptability.
Real-World Application: Children learn to understand and manage their feelings during transitions or losses in their own lives, fostering emotional intelligence and resilience.
Example Lesson: Importance of intergenerational relationships
Explanation: Through the bonds between Emily, her mother, and her grandmother, the story underscores the wisdom and love that elder family members can share.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to connect with and appreciate the older generations in their family, enriching their lives and deepening familial bonds.
Example Lesson: The value of shared memories
Explanation: As the characters reminisce about their shared past, they highlight how memories can strengthen relationships and provide comfort during tough times.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of cherishing and sharing memories with loved ones, using storytelling to enhance their connections and emotional support networks.