As an introduction to this unit, I chose Julius Lester's beautifully written and illustrated tale of John Henry. Here is the legend of the man who challenged the new steamdrill. The stakes were high: if the power of John Henry's own hand could not outdo the steam drill, he and countless other workers would become obsolete. My question to students would be, what is the "steam drill" in your life that threatens to overtake you? Will you fight it or give up? How do you want to be remembered?
What a good choice. So many great books deal with issues such as perseverance. What a great way to highlight other people with challenges and obstacles that were able to succeed due to determination and hard work.
ReplyDeleteYou might want to consider adding: "All The Way To Lhasa" by Barbara Helen Berger. This is a folktale from Tibet. An old woman is asked by a hurried man on horse- back how far it is to Lhasa, and she tells him he won't get there by nightfall. Then a boy walking with his yak asks the same question, and is told he can make it there by nightfall. "It's the careful, slower pilgrim who makes it to the holy city." (Booklist) Inspired by a Tibetan parable on patience and determination.
Yes! I saw that book before and had thought the same thing. I thought I could only choose one book to feature for each genre! Now that I know it's not limited to one I will surely add that that book. Thanks!
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