Second Grade Reads Historical Fiction

This January, second grade students are reading historical fiction in school and at home. First students explored the structure of historical fiction. In December, we read biographies which set the stage for this study as many biographies focus on people from a time period in the past. As we discussed the contributions made by these people, we also focused on how the time period in which they lived affected their lives and helps to explain the importance of their work. Currently, Hill of Fire, Chang's Paper Pony and Kate Shelley and the Midnight Express are the three books being read and discussed in small groups.

Students reading Hill of Fire, learn about the experience of the farmer Dionisio Pulido and his son, living in Paricutin, Mexico in 1943. As they are plowing their field they witness the birth of a volcano- this is only the second time in recorded history that humans saw the birth of a volcano. It is the actions of the farmer and their son as they warn the villagers and help all to escape from the volcano that does destroy most of the village that stands out to our student readers. This book gives students a window also into the life of the villagers during this time period and in this part of Mexico.

Chang's Paper Pony takes place during the Gold Rush. Chang and his grandfather have come from California to work hard by feeding the miners and build a life in California. Chang's biggest wish is
to own a pony. He discovers that hard work, and his friendship with one of the characters Big Pete will help him to achieve his dreams. The reader experiences this time period through the eyes of Chang in vivid detail.

Kate Shelley lives in Iowa in 1881. As a fifteen year old girl she shows resourcefulness and courage as she saves the lives of two men and prevents many others from drowning as a heavy storm destroys the bridge over Honey Creek near her home. Kate Shelley and the Midnight Express contains vivid writing and a character that students can connect with. The historical time period is reflected in the way people dressed, traveled and communicated.

The entire grade will read Wagon Wheels and learn the story of the Muldie boys and their father as they travel from Kentucky to Nicodemus, Kansas in 1878. The Muldies were among thousands of black pioneers who left the South after the Civil War to settle in the West. We will read about the courage of the boys as they live in a dugout while their father searches for land that will enable them to have a better life, and then of their journey of one hundred and fifty miles to connect with their father.