The legend of the bluebonnet

DePaola, T. (1983). The legend of the bluebonnet. NY: Putnam

Summary:

The land was dry, and people were dying. They prayed, sang, and danced to the great spirits to show them the way. For many days they waited for the rain to fall. Out of the few children left, there was a little girl with her doll that watched the people dance from a distance. The sun was setting, and a shaman was returning to speak to the people. He told the people that they had become selfish taking from the land and not giving anything in return. The people had to give an offering of the most valued possessions they owned. By doing this, the great spirits will restore life to Earth and the people. Some of the people were being greedy with their personal belongings and didn't want to offer their new things. She-Who-Is-Alone was the only person that gave up something valuable to her. She sacrificed her doll that she loved so much. After she sacrificed her doll, she saw over the hill and saw beautiful flowers. The other people took the flowers as a sign of forgiveness from the great spirits. They began to dance and sing, and suddenly a warm rain began to fall. From that day on, She-Who-Is-Alone was known by One-Who-Dearly-Loved-Her-People.

Strength:

The message the book portrays is that we shouldn't be selfish when others are suffering. If we sacrifice something materialistic or just our time can make a difference in other people's life. The children will learn from the book about love and sacrifice. Even though it is hard to let go of something you love, the sacrifice is worth to see the good it brings to other people or the world. The children will love this book because of its illustration, the story, and the message.

Connections:

Booktrailer:

https://youtu.be/obscP0AiFPo