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

Bud, Not Buddy

Title: Bud, Not Buddy
2000 Newbery Medal
Author: Christopher Paul Curtis
Published: 1999
Plot Summary: Set during the Depression -era, this story is about a 10 year old boy , Buddy Caldwell, who becomes an orphan after his mother dies. His mother leaves Buddy a suitcase filled with family memorabilia in which Buddy finds a possible clue in discovering who his father is. Buddy, in search of identity, hope, and survival, goes on a quest to find his father whom he believes to be a jazz musician in Grand Rapids Michigan.
Major Characters: Buddy Caldwell, Angela Caldwell, Todd Amos, Mr. Herman Calloway
Theme(s): Finding hope in bleak circumstances
Reader's Response: Readers are forced to explored the harsh conditions of American life during the depression era and how racism further complicated life for African Americans during that period.
Teaching Idea: Have students create their own historical graphic novel (3 or 4 slides using PowerPoint) of what life was like during the depression era as a member of a different ethnic group (Polish, German, Irish, African American, etc.) using primary documents such as photos, flyers, art work and music representing that time period. Students can explore economic status, religion, education, etc.
Grade Level: 4 - 6
Reading Level (Lexile): 950