Module 5: Historical Fiction

 

The Journey of Little Charlie

Written by: Christopher Paul Curtis

Bibliography: 

Curtis, C. P. (2018). The journey of little charlie. Scholastic Press.

ISBN: 978-0545156660

Plot Summary: The Journey of Little Charlie follows the story of Little Charlie, a young boy living in the 1800's United States who goes off on an unexpected journey and learns life lessons along the way. Little Charlie comes from a family of poor sharecroppers in South Carolina. Little Charlie's father is killed one day when cutting trees in the forest with his axe, leaving Little Charlie and Ma on their own. Cap'n Buck, the overseer from the Tanner plantation next door, comes to their house soon after, claiming a debt that is owed to him from Big Charlie, Little Charlie's father. Cap'n Buck demands his debt of fifty dollars to be paid, and when Little Charlie and Ma are unable to turn up with the money, he sets off for Detroit with Little Charlie to capture runaway slaves. 

Little Charlie, just a twelve-year-old boy, is thrust into a whirlwind journey as they travel north from South Carolina, grappling with what he's always been told as the truth about slavery and the empathy and compassion he feels for the slaves he encounters on his journey. In Detroit, Cap'n Buck searches for a family of runaway slaves from the Tanner plantation, finding Eloise and Chester, ripping their papers that granted their freedom to pieces, and continuing on to Canada in search of their son who is safe from the Fugitive Slave Act and attending school. Canada proves to be a very different experience for Cap'n Buck and Little Charlie, as people are not eager to turn in any former slaves. Little Charlie meets their son, Sylvanus, in Canada, and soon faces a moral dilemma: does he follow Cap'n Buck's orders and trick Sylvanus into giving up his freedom and returning to South Carolina as a slave, or does he stand up for what's right and help Sylvanus and his family escape into Canada? Ultimately, Little Charlie takes on Cap'n Buck and helps Sylvanus and his family to Canada after all, clearing his conscience and learning valuable lessons about compassion for others.

Critical Analysis: This historical fiction novel is both accurate to the time period it is set in, the 1850s United States, as well as timeless in its themes of standing up for what's right and showing empathy. The setting of the novel drives the narrative, as the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 was passed only eight years before the start of the novel begins, meaning all Americans were required to turn in or help capture runaway slaves at this time. The dialogue is reflective of the southern accents of the characters, written in a way for readers to imagine exactly how each character may sound, further immersing the reader in the story's setting. 

The story explores many themes, namely empathy, injustice, and standing up for what's right, even when it goes against the majority. The story, told through the lens of twelve year old Little Charlie, a poor sharecropper from South Carolina, takes the reader on a journey that was authentic to the time period: a young boy who has always been told that things should be one way, is suddenly exposed to the harsh injustices of slavery and is faced with a moral dilemma as he grapples with societal "norms" and his conscience. While threaded with serious themes, Curtis infuses the story with Little Charlie's unique voice, making the story impactful and memorable.

Awards and Recognition:

National Book Award Finalist, 2018

Review Excerpts:

From Kirkus Reviews: "By seeing the story through the eyes of a poor white boy and a white overseer, readers confront how so many were connected by slavery. Curtis demonstrates in dramatic fashion how much the formerly enslaved valued their freedom and what they were willing to do to help one of their own remain free. The narrative is briskly paced, and both Little Charlie and Sylvanus are compelling characters."

From School Library Journal: "Curtis's young protagonist will sow the seed of courage in listeners with this heart-wrenching, and at times gut-wrenching, reminder that we must learn from history."

Connections:

• Author study about Christopher Paul Curtis, including:
• Elijah of Buxton, as referenced at the end of this story
• Bud, Not Buddy
• The Watson's Go to Birmingham, 1963
• The Mighty Miss Malone
• Christopher Paul Curtis is a distinguished author, earning numerous awards throughout his years as an author. Students can learn about the various awards his books have won, including the National Book Award, Newbery Honor Award, and Coretta Scott King Award for Authors.

Sources:

Curtis, C. P. (2018). The journey of little charlie. Scholastic Press.

Curtis, C. P. (2018b, January 30). The journey of little charlie. Kirkus Reviews. https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/christopher-paul-curtis/the-journey-of-little-charlie/ 

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate

Written by: Jacqueline Kelly

Bibliography: 

Kelly, J. (2009). The evolution of Calpurnia Tate. Henry Holt and Co.

ISBN: 978-0312659301

Plot Summary: The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate is a historical fiction novel set in 1899 in Fentress, Texas. Calpurnia is a feisty, inquisitive young girl trying to balance between listening to her mother and following the expectations that society has for young ladies and following her dreams to become a scientist and discover the world around her. Early in the story, Calpurnia has an encounter with her grandfather, who is a particular and enigmatic old man with a passion for science. When she is turned away from the library after asking for a copy of The Origin of Species by Charles Darwin, Calpurnia discovers an ally her grandfather, who gives her a copy and invites her to share his scientific explorations together, thus beginning a special bond between the two. The story takes place throughout the year of 1899, leading into 1900. 

Each chapter weaves together seamlessly to paint a picture of Calpurnia's growing scientific curiosity and discoveries with her grandfather, while also incorporating scenes of both typical life in the late 1800s and scenes from family life and growing up. Calpurnia grapples with her rising desire to pursue her scientific passions and the expectations of learning how to become a housewife. Calpurnia and Grandaddy discover a new plant together, and while Calpurnia despairs at the societal norms thrust upon her as a young girl, she ultimately finds that she can continue to pursue her passions of science and discovery as she embarks upon the new century.

Critical Analysis: This historical fiction novel perfectly melds Calpurnia's journey of self-discovery along with society's innovative movements towards the turn of the century. At a time when the world was seemingly bursting with new technologies and scientific discoveries, Calpurnia is simultaneously discovering the wonder of the world around her. Kelly brings Calpurnia's character to life with clever wit, while also creating a unique and special bond between Calpurnia and Grandaddy, two people who, while often misunderstood, share a deep connection over their determined pursuit of scientific knowledge. 

Each character, including Calpurnia's four brothers, is given unique characteristics that make the reader feel a part of the family as they are reading. The setting of a small Texas town in the late 1800s is apparent on every page, and Kelly immerses the reader in the historical backdrop even while telling a story that is relatable for all. This story is uplifting and inspiring for readers of all ages, teaching themes of being ture to oneself, finding wonder in the ordinary, and chasing one's dreams.

Awards and Recognition:

Newbery Honor Book, 2010

Review Excerpts:

From Kirkus Reviews: "Calpurnia is not a boilerplate folksy Southern heroine who spouts wise-beyond-her-years maxims that seem destined for needlepoint—her character is authentically childlike and complex, her struggles believable. Readers will finish this witty, deftly crafted debut novel rooting for “Callie Vee” and wishing they knew what kind of adult she would become."

From Publisher's Weekly:  "Callie's transformation into an adult and her unexpected bravery make for an exciting and enjoyable read. Kelly's rich images and setting, believable relationships and a touch of magic take this story far."

Connections:

• Readers may enjoy the next book in the series, The Curious world of Calpurnia Tate
• Calpurnia Tate, Girl Vet series, also by Jacqueline Kelly
• Readers can research an animal (or animals) that they are interested in, gathering their observations and making hypotheses, just like Calpurnia Tate

Sources:

Kelly, J. (2009). The evolution of Calpurnia Tate. Henry Holt and Co.

Beyond the Bright Sea

Written by: Lauren Wolk

Bibliography: 

Wolk, L. (2018). Beyond the Bright Sea. Dutton.

ISBN: 978-1101994856

Plot Summary: Beyond the Bright Sea is a historical fiction novel set in the 1920's on a fictional island off of Massachusetts. The main character is a young girl named Crow, who was washed ashore as a baby and found by Osh, the father figure character in the story. Osh, Crow, and Miss Maggie are the central characters of the story, a found family of sorts. Crow has always been set apart from society due to the islanders' belief that she was born on Penikese Island, which once was where lepers were sent. Crow, not knowing where she came from, becomes determined to understand her past when she discovers a mysterious and dangerous man who has been digging on Penikese, searching for something. 

Crow makes her way to the mainland and discovers the history of Penikese and of her family, as she discovers the possibility that she may have a brother out there in the world. She also learns from Osh that she had a ring and a note attached to her when she washed up ashore as a baby. The note is cryptic, as many of the words are illegible, and Crow becomes determined to piece the clues together in order to learn about her origins. Eventually, Crow discovers an empty grave that contains hidden treasure, left to her by her family, who sent her away on a boat as a baby so she could have a better chance at life. 

Crow, Osh, and Miss Maggie hide the treasure and narrowly escape the dangerous Mr. Kendall, a greedy man who wants to take the treasure for his own, and Crow learns that family is not always just who you are born to, but who you find along the way.

Critical Analysis: This novel explores many deep and emotional themes, including family, finding oneself, and the power of love. Wolk immerses the reader in the island setting, with rich descriptions of the harsh but beautiful sea and the isolation of being set off from the mainland. The setting mirrors the themes of the story, as Crow is seen as an outcast in society, becoming an island herself when others are too afraid of her rumored origins at a leper colony to get near to her. 

The reader experiences Crow's deep yearning for knowledge of her family, and ultimately herself, along with her throughout the story, while also experiencing Osh's confusion and grief in feeling seemingly cast aside as Crow's father figure during her journey of discovery. The historical setting is subtle yet remains a strong thread throughout, as the reader is able to recognize characteristics of the 1920s in the technology, customs, and societal norms of that time. 

Awards and Recognition:

Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction, 2018

Review Excerpts:

From Kirkus Reviews: "Every chapter in the book has a new mystery to be solved: why was Crow sent away in an old boat when she was a baby? Why is a fire burning on an abandoned island? Did Capt. Kidd really hide treasure nearby? But some readers will love Wolk’s use of language even more than the puzzles...the mysteries—and the words that describe them—are compelling enough to send readers to the islands for years to come."

From Publisher's Weekly:  "Wolk’s economical prose clearly delineates Crow’s conflicting emotions and growing awareness, and readers will feel the love and loyalty that she, Osh, and Miss Maggie share."

Connections:

• Explore more winners of the Scoot O'Dell Historical Fiction Award, including:
• Bea and the New Deal Horse by L.M. Elliot
• All He Knew by Helen Frost
• Butterfly Yellow by Thanhha Lai
• Finding Langston by Lesa Cline-Ransome
• Dash by Kirby Lawson
• Research the Elizabeth Islands, including Cuttyhunk and Penikese Island

Sources:

Wolk, L. (2018). Beyond the Bright Sea. Dutton.

Dragonwings

Written by: Laurence Yep

Bibliography: 

Yep, L. (2001). Dragonwings: Golden Mountain Chronicles, 1903. HarperTrophy.

ISBN: 978-0064400855

Plot Summary: Dragonwings is a historical fiction novel set in California in the early 1990s. Told from the perspective of a young boy, Moon Shadow, immigrating to the United States from China, this story takes place over several years during a time when Chinese immigrants faced persecution, prejudice, and injustice as they worked to provide for their families and make a brighter future. Moon Shadow travels to the United States to join his father, Windrider, who has been working in California since Moon Shadow was born. At first anxious to meet a father he has never known, Moon Shadow and Windrider soon develop a close bond as father and son. Moon Shadow also meets other members of the Company, a group of Chinese men working together and forming close friendships, including Uncle Bright Star, Hand Clap, White Deer, and Lefty. The men form a familial bond, as they endure hardships and injustices together. 

Windrider, Moon Shadow's father, creates beautiful kites and shares his passion for flying with Moon Shadow, along with his dream of becoming a dragon again in his next life. Moon Shadow and Windrider go through many hardships over the years, from being forced to move, living in poverty, and dealing with the cruelty of prejudiced neighbors. However, Moon Shadow and Windrider meet life-long friends along the way, including Miss Whitlaw and her niece Robin. Windrider and Moon Shadow continue to develop their understanding of flying, even writing to the Wright brothers to learn how to construct their own flying machine. 

In 1906, the San Fransisco earthquake hits, devastating the city and uprooting the lives of many. Windrider, Moon Shadow, Robin, and Miss Whitlaw help rescue as many people as they can, and Windrider and Moon Shadow convince Uncle to finally leave his home for his own safety. Eventually, Windrider and Moon Shadow relocate and work hard to create their airplane, with all of their friends coming to help them, including Uncle, Hand Clap, Lefty, and White Deer. While Windrider crashes the plane and is injured, he ultimately is satisfied with his work and realizes that his time with his son and loved ones is the most important. The story ends with the characters staying in touch and remaining a part of each other's lives, and Moon Shadow eagerly awaiting the arrival of his mother to California.

Critical Analysis: This novel is bursting with intricate details of Chinese culture and traditions, giving the reader a taste of the joy and comfort of sharing cultural customs with old and new friends. At the beginning of the story, Moon Shadow is skeptical of the people he meets in California; he is often met with cruel taunts and unkind people. However, the Moon Shadow begins to experience new interactions with others as the story goes on, notable with Miss Whitlaw and Robin. Here, Moon Shadow meets friends who are interested in learning more about his language and culture and accept him and his father as they are. 

The historical time period is authentic throughout the novel, and the setting drives the story, as Moon Shadow and Windrider often deal with hardships that were prevalent at that time, including the injustices that Chinese immigrants were surrounded by at the time. Additionally, the 1906 San Fransisco earthquake is accurately portrayed in the novel, with people facing the issues of not only the devastation of th einitial earthquake and the subsequent fires that ravaged the city, but also being made to move out of Golden Gate park after the disaster due to discrimination. 

Throughout the ups and downs that Windrider and Moon Shadow face, Yep creates a close-knit, heartwarming narrative of family, friendship, loyalty, and hope. 

Awards and Recognition:

Newbery Honor Award

Review Excerpts:

From Booklist: ""A fine, sensitive novel written with grace in a way that conveys the Chinese American's cultural heritage".

From School Library Journal  "...unique in its perspective of the Chinese in America and its portrayal of early 20th-century San Francisco, including the Earthquake, from an immigrant's viewpoint."

Connections:

• Explore other books in the Golden Mountain Chronicles by Laurence Yep, including:
• The Serpent's Children
• Mountain Light 
• Dragon's Gate
• The Traitor
• Dragon Road
• Sea Glass
• Thief of Hearts
• Dragons of Silk
• Additional books about the 1906 San Fransisco earthquake:
• The Earth Dragon Awakes by Laurence Yep
• Escape from the Great Earthquake: Ranger in Time #6 by Kate Messner
• I Survived the San Fransisco Earthquake by Lauren Tarshis
• Earthquake in the Early Morning: Magic Treehouse #24 by Mary Pope Osborn
• What Was the San Fransisco Earthquake? by Dorothy Hoobler

Sources:

Yep, L. (2001). Dragonwings: Golden Mountain Chronicles, 1903. HarperTrophy.