Description
This book is suitable for ages 7 and up and can fit into the Waldorf curriculum as part of the social sciences. As the Waldorf child grows they should spend time studying cultures, history, and experiences starting at home and their own town (age 7) and then expanding out to their country (age 8), and beyond (age 9 and up). Stories should be told in a way that is suitable for their age. 7-year-olds respond best to stories that are familiar to them or have familiar surroundings (perhaps like the farm in the book). For older children, listening to or reading a piece of history through the eyes of two children who are friends is the perfect gentle introduction they need before they venture into the more serious studies of history and culture in 5th grade and up.
For more information on how to introduce younger children to history and culture using Waldorf methods see Alan Whitehead’s Golden Beetle Curriculum Guides.
Jacqueline Woodson is the 2018-2019 National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature
With the addition of a brand-new author’s note, this special edition celebrates the tenth anniversary of this classic book. As always, Woodson moves readers with her lyrical narrative, and E. B. Lewis’s amazing talent shines in his gorgeous watercolor illustrations.
“Manages to plumb great depths with understated simplicity and the text and art work together beautifully.”—School Library Journal, starred review
“Pictures and words make strong partners here, convincingly communicating a timeless lesson.”—Publishers Weekly
“Even young children will understand the fence metaphor and they will enjoy the quiet friendship drama.”—Booklist
