Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

Title: Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
1977 Newbery Winner
Author: Mildred D. Taylor
Published: 1976
Plot Summary: An African American family living in Mississippi during the Depression era is terrorized by racism and poverty. 9 year old Cassie tries to make sense of the violence of the KKK that she and her family endure. Ultimately, her family survives in tact and maintains their land.
Main Characters: Cassie Logan, The Logan Family, TJ, Miz Lillian Jean, Mr. Morrison
Theme(s): the survival of the family despite terrible circumstances
Reader Response: Through an examination of race relations, readers will explore the rights of citizens and citizen responsibility in combating injustice.
Teaching Idea: Students form groups and role play scenarios where they resolve and negotiate conflict caused by an injustice. Students discuss the perceived injustice and how they felt as the perpetrators and/or the victims.
Grade Level: Gr. 4 - 7
Reading Level (Lexile): 960