I have much admiration for people who have courage under fire. Too many times, I notice children giving up easily when a task is too hard. Perseverance and determination are two qualities I want to instill into my own three children and the students I come in contact with.
Margaree King Mitchell and Larry Johnson (illustrator)do just that. She wrote Granddaddy’s Gift as a model of courage and persistence during the civil rights movement. In the story, Little Joe, the young female narrator, speaks to the reader. She shares how her Granddaddy acted with courage. As she shadow her Granddaddy, Little Joe learns the value of working hard and being persistent. Granddaddy volunteered to register to vote, a right that was met with great resistance.
“You’re doing all right, Joe. Just be satisfied with what you have.”
Little Joe met her own resistance. People didn’t want trouble so her friends couldn’t play with her anymore.
The story Margaree shares provides numerous opportunities for discussion on civil rights. What a great read for background knowledge. It lends itself to discuss goals and ambitions, effort and determination for each of us.
“Grandaddy had taught me to stand up for things, even if I was scared, and always to be proud. His gift never left me.”
Savorings for reading and in writing for Granddaddy’s Gift:
- Love of Reading –
- Magic of 3
- Character introduction – leads to a ‘One day’ story
- Taking a stand
- Passage of time