More Copyright Stuff

I have no affiliation with American Girl Company. This is my blog with my opinions, which do not reflect the company.

Addy Saves the Day

Chapter One: Seeds of Hope
Do you like gardening?

If you had the chance to ask God one question, what would you ask?


Chapter Two: Hope and Determination
What do you pray for?

Molasses Cookies

Do you find it hard to get along with someone?

Why do you think Harriet is so mean?


Chapter Three: Healing
Compare Addy’s fair with fairs you’ve visited.

What is your favorite thing about fairs?

Has anyone in your family died? How do you think Harriet feels?


Chapter Four: All for One
Do you think Harriet, Sarah and Addy can get along now? Why?

How did all three girls help stop the thief? Could any of them do it alone?

Have you been happy to find someone?

Happy Birthday, Addy!

Chapter One: Double Dutch
Learn to play it!

Was freedom fair for former slaves?

Why do you think it took so long for blacks to have true freedom?


Chapter Two: Sunshine
Do you ever feel lonely?

What’s the best day you’ve had?

If you could pick any day for your birthday, what would it be? Why?

Do you have an older friend like M’Dear?

Why do you think Northern whites were mean to colored people?


Chapter Three: Bitter Medicine
Benne Candy
1 cup sesame seeds
1 (1-pound) box light brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon white vinegar
Heavily butter an 11 by 2-inch pyrex baking dish.
Wash sesame seeds and remove any debris that may be in the seeds and drain well. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium high heat until a drop of water bounces around the skillet. Pour seeds into skillet and stir constantly. Dry and parch seeds until light brown, approximately 2 minutes. Do not burn seeds.
In a heavy saucepan, combine and melt the sugar, butter, milk and vinegar. Using a wooden spoon, stir constantly until ingredients are dissolved. Cook over medium high heat to light crack stage. If using a candy thermometer, the temperature should be between 265 and 285 degrees F. Once it reaches the desired temperature, remove from heat and beat in the sesame seeds with your spoon. Pour immediately into prepared dish. Score candy while still warm and cut into squares when cool.

Should Addy and Sarah ride a streetcar without permission?

What bitter medicine did Addy swallow?


Chapter Four: Brotherly Love
What challenges do you sing through?


Chapter Five: Changes in the Wind
What changes do you think the end of the war will bring?


Looking Back
Learn “Sally Walker” and “Ring Around the Rosie”

Addy's Surprise

Chapter One: Winds of Winter
Could you imagine not knowing where half of your family was?

How does your church decorate for Christmas?

What songs do you sing at Christmas?

If you don’t already know it, learn to sing “Joy to the World”


Chapter Two: Something Pretty
Do you like secondhand shops?

What surprises have you saved for?


Chapter Three: Freedom Ain’t Free
How do you help others?
¨

Chapter Four: The Cost of Freedom
Every girl should learn to stitch a hem. Ask your mother, grandmother or another woman to teach you.

Why do you think Mrs. Ford let Addy stay downstairs?

Chapter Five: Christmas Surprises
Why do you think some people are rude at Christmas?

What foods are part of your Christmas celebration?

Have you ever welcomed someone home, who you feared you’d never see again?


Looking Back
Do you celebrate Kwanzaa?

Addy Learns a Lesson

Chapter One: A New Home
Do you think freedom will be easy for Momma and Addy? Why?


Chapter Two: Freedom?
Have you felt cramped?

Would you like to share a bathroom with ten families?

“Freedom got a cost” do you think that still applies today?

How did you feel when you learned to read your name?


Chapter Three: Tested
Compare Harriet to a girl you know.

Do you think friends and enemies have changed in the last century?

Do you have a friend you study with?

How did you learn to read?

Do you think Addy is being fair to Sarah?


Chapter Four: The Lines are Drawn
What is your family like?

Have you watched troops leaving for Iraq?

Have you been made fun of?


Chapter Five: The Spelling Match
Have you been left out?

Describe a time your parents were proud of you.

Have you been in a spelling bee?

What prizes have you won in school?

Watch Akeelah and the Bee


Looking Back
Learn to sing “America”

America (My Country, 'tis of Thee) by Rev. Samuel F. Smith (1808-1895)
My country, 'tis of Thee,
Sweet Land of Liberty
Of thee I sing;
Land where my fathers died,
Land of the pilgrims' pride,
From every mountain side
Let Freedom ring.

My native country, thee,
Land of the noble free,
Thy name I love;
I love thy rocks and rills,
Thy woods and templed hills,
My heart with rapture thrills
Like that above.

Let music swell the breeze,
And ring from all the trees
Sweet Freedom's song;
Let mortal tongues awake;
Let all that breathe partake;
Let rocks their silence break,
The sound prolong.

Our fathers' God to Thee,
Author of Liberty,
To Thee we sing,
Long may our land be bright
With Freedom's holy light,
Protect us by Thy might
Great God, our King.

In February, 1832, Reverend Smith was reading through some German music and was particularly attracted to the tune of "God Save the King," although he was unable to understand the German words. "In a brief period of time at the close of a dismal winter afternoon" (his own words), he penned the verses as they now appear. The tune itself was controversial. It was considered to be "un-American" in later years, even though the tune had actually appeared in America before 1776. It was used for a number of patriotic songs, including God Save the President, and God Save George Washington. In 1798, it appeared again as an Ode to the Fourth of July, with the words, "Come All ye Sons of Song. "The author removed one of the original verses dealing with tyrants and ending with "No more our blood be shed... By alien hands."

“Rally Round the Flag”
Rallying Song

Yes, we'll rally round the flag, boys
Rally once again,
Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom
We will rally from the hillside
We'll gather from the plains,
Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom!

Chorus: The Union forever!
Hurrah boys hurrah!
Down with the traitor, up with the star,
While we rally round the flag, boys
Rally once again
Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom!

2. We are springing to the call
Of our borthers gone before,
Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom.
And we'll fill the vacant ranks
With a million freemen more,
Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom!

Chorus:

3. We will welcome to our numbers The loyal, true and brave, Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom And altho' they may be poor Not a man shall be a slave, Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom!

Chorus:

4. So we're springing to the call From the East and from the West, Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom. And we'll hurl the Rebel crew From the land we love the best, Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom!

Chorus:

Battle Song
We are marching to the field, boys, We're going to the fight, Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom, And we bear the glorious stars For the Union and the right, Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom. Chorus: The Union forever! Hurrah boys hurrah! Down with the traitor, up with the star, For we're marching to the field, boys,

Going to the fight, Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom!
2. We will meet the Rebel host, boys, With fearless heart and true, Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom, And we'll show what Uncle Sam has For loyal men to do, Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom. Chorus: 3. If we fall amid the fray, boys, We'll face them to the last, Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom. And our comrades brave shall hear us As they go rushing past, Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom. Chorus:

4. Yes, for Liberty and Union We're springing to the fight, Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom. And the vict'ry shall be ours For we're rising in our might, Shouting the Battle Cry of Freedom. Chorus


This song was written as a rallying song for the Union and its supporters and was extremely popular up North. It was also known and sung down South by Confederate troops as well, who wrote their own verses.

Meet Addy

Chapter One: Whispers of Freedom
Have you faked sleeping? Did it work?

What does freedom mean to you?


Chapter Two: Sold!
Slaves were sold every day. How do you think the families felt?


Chapter Three: A New Plan
What chores do you hate?

What do you think about Momma’s view of love and hate?

Do you know anyone with a heart full of hate? What are they like? How about someone with a heart full of love?

Could you imagine leaving your baby sister, knowing you may never see her again?


Chapter Four: Into the Night
My name, Amie, also means “Much Loved”. What does your name mean?

Can you trace your relatives to the Civil War?


Chapter Five: Freedom Taken
How do you think Addy felt?

Looking Back
Read about the Underground Railroad.

Other Kirsten

Welcome to Kirsten's World
Play the games mentioned:
Follow the Leader: First a leader or "head of the line" is chosen, then the children all line up behind the leader. The leader then moves around and all the children have to mimic the leader's actions. Any players who mess up or do not do what the leader does are out of the game. The last person standing other than the leader is now the new leader.

Tree Tag Under hökens vingar kom: A somewhat similar game is known in Sweden as "Under hökens vingar kom". In this variant, the catcher(s) call out "Under hökens vingar kom!" ("Gather under the wings of the hawk") while the others (the "doves") respond "What color?" The catchers name a color, and those who wear that color can then safely walk across the field to the other side. The others have to dodge the catchers, and if caught, they join the catchers themselves.
Rules
The rules of tag are very flexible. Rules such as the following can be either decided upon before the game, or added as the game progresses to make play more fair.
At the beginning of the game, one player is designated "it". After "it" is chosen, the other players scatter. "It" must chase them down and tag them, usually by tapping them somewhere on the body. A tagged player becomes "it", and the former "it" joins the others in trying to avoid being tagged. This process repeats until the game ends.

In a typical game of tag, no score is kept, nor is a winner selected. Those who can avoid being tagged or who can stay "it" for the least amount of time are generally regarded as the best players. There is usually no time limit; the end of the game is chosen arbitrarily, perhaps when the players tire of the game, when recess ends, or when players get called home for dinner.
An anomalous property of tag is that although being "it" gives a player the most influence upon the game and thus could be considered the best role to play, the position is stigmatized and avoided. While most agree that the temporary stigma associated with being "it" is harmless, some have criticized tag because, they allege, a player who is often pursued to be made "it" or who is physically slow can be singled out and embarrassed. Because of this, tag has been banned in some schools.

Hide and seek
Hide and seek (sometimes called hide and go seek) is a popular tag variant that is best played in areas with lots of potential hiding spots, such as a forest or a large house. "It" covers their eyes or faces away from the playing field and counts out loud to some predetermined number while the other players hide. "It" then tries to find the hiding players. The next "it" is either the first or the last player found, depending on the rules agreed to by the players.

Fox and Hounds
This variation is best played in as large an area as possible, with as many participants as can be found. If played in a school, it should use the entire area covered by the grounds and, ideally, the interior of the building as well. Possibly the best games are played across an entire housing estate and involve more than a hundred players, with rules against players using their homes or gardens as hiding places. Such a game can take several hours to conclude, particularly when some players are very skilled.
The game begins with a single player (the "hound") giving the "foxes" a big enough head start to allow them to get out of sight. The hound then gives chase and tries to hunt down the foxes. Upon being tagged (or sometimes, wrestled to the ground), the foxes switch sides and become hounds.
Ultimately, all but one of the players will be hounds, chasing down a lone fox. Great kudos are due to any player who can evade the hounds for a great length of time without resorting to foul play.

Shadow Tag
This form of tag was originally played in mid- to late- afternoon or morning, but the modern ubiquity of outdoor lighting makes it a popular game for summer nights. It is exactly like tag in all respects except that shadows are used. The shadow of the player who is "it" must touch another person's shadow. The other person is now "it."

Under hökens vingar kom
A somewhat similar game is known in Sweden as "Under hökens vingar kom". In this variant, the catcher(s) call out "Under hökens vingar kom!" ("Gather under the wings of the hawk") while the others (the "doves") respond "What color?" The catchers name a color, and those who wear that color can then safely walk across the field to the other side. The others have to dodge the catchers, and if caught, they join the catchers themselves.

Blind Man's Bluff
Blind Man's Bluff involves the "it" player being blindfolded or keeping their eyes closed while attempting to catch other players. This is a flawed version of the game as "it" is clearly at a disadvantage, and cheating is easily attained by "it" opening their eyes. The game can function well in a relatively confined space (such as a larger living room) where the "it" player can hope to entrap other players in corners, thereby touching them with an outstretched hand or leg or at least compelling the other players to give away their position by creating a sound. In some variations, every player is blindfolded.

Puss in the Corner is a solitaire card game which is played with a deck of 52 playing cards. It is similar to another solitaire game Sir Tommy, but with modifications and with the waste piles placed at the corners of the foundations, hence the name. First, the four aces are separated from the rest of the deck and placed side by side in two cards of two, forming a square. The four waste piles, which initially would contain a card each, are located at the corners of the square.
Building on the foundations is up by color (red suits on red, black suits on black, no matter the suit) to kings. The player first examines the cards to move any cards that can be built on the foundations. If a gap occurs, it is not immediately filled. Only one card can be moved at a time. After the sufficient cards are built, four cards, one at a time, are dealt onto any of the wastepiles (not necessarily one on each waste pile). Afterwards, any cards that can be built to the foundations are moved. There should be no building on the wastepiles themselves. The process is repeated, i.e. dealing four cards any on the waste piles and moving any available cards (the top card of each waste pile) to the foundations over and over, until the stock is exhausted. After the stock is exhausted, the player can do a redeal. To do this, the player must pick up the four waste piles in any order one wishes, and without shuffling, restarts dealing four cards, restarting the process. The game ends when this second stock is used up.
The game is won when all the cards end up in the foundations.

Crack the Whip is a simple outdoor children's game that involves physical coordination, and is usually played in small groups, either on grass or ice. One player, chosen as the "head" of the whip, runs (or skates) around in random directions, with subsequent players holding on to the hand of the previous player. The entire "tail" of the whip moves in those directions, but with much more force toward the end of the tail. The longer the tail, the more the forces act on the last player, and the tighter they have to hold on. As the game progresses, and more players fall off, some of those who were previously located near the end of the tail and have fallen off can "move up" and be in a more secure position by grabbing onto the tail as it is moving, provided they can get back on before some of the others do. There is no objective to this game other than the enjoyment of the experience. References to this game go back to the 1890s in England. Recently, this game has been challenged by some child advocates in the U.S. as being harmful to both the physical and psychological development of children. There is the potential for some children to become seriously injured when thrown off the tail of the whip, for example, especially on ice. In addition, the social lessons of the game are not as obvious and appealing as in other types of physical games and sports.


Kirsten on the Trail
This should be read after Kirsten’s Surprise

Have you been told to stop playing with a friend?

Should Kirsten have told her parents about Singing Bird when they met?


Kirsten and the New Girl
Do you like staying home from school?

Have you embarrassed yourself?

What’s it like to be the new girl?

Looking Back
What do you and your friends do for each other?


Kirsten and the Chippewa
This should be read during Changes for Kirsten

Have you been scared of people?

Why is it rude to make fun of others?

Knowing Aunt Inger trades with the Chippewa, could that hinder Kirsten’s friendship with Singing Bird?


Kirsten Snowbound!
Read another book about the blizzard of 1888.

Has your family lost power, or worse, their home? What did you do?

Compare the blizzard with Hurricane Katrina. Which was worse? Why?


Kirsten's Promise (Should be read after Happy Birthday, Kirsten!)
Has anyone asked you to make a promise you couldn’t keep?

What other secrets should you tell?

Have you seen a wagon like Ezra’s?

If you can, play a computer game like Oregon Trail 2 to understand the rough life of pioneers.

Make a flower crown

Learn to sing “Oh Susannah”
Oh I come from Alabama with a banjo on my knee,
I'm going to Louisiana, my true love for to see
It rained all night the day I left, the weather it was dry
The sun so hot I froze to death; Susanna, don't you cry.
Oh, Susanna, don't you cry for me
For I come from Alabama,
With my banjo on my knee.
I had a dream the other night when everything was still,
I thought I saw Susanna coming up the hill,
The buckwheat cake was in her mouth, the tear was in her eye,
I said I'm coming from Dixieland, Susanna don't you cry.
I soon will be in New Orleans
And then I'll look around
And when I find my gal Susanne,
I'll fall upon the ground.

“Pop Goes the Weasel”
Half a pound of tuppenny rice,
Half a pound of treacle.
That’s the way the money goes,
Pop! goes the weasel.
Or the alternative verses:
Half a pound of tuppenny rice,
Half a pound of treacle.
Mix it up and make it nice,
Pop! goes the weasel.
Or the alternative verses:
Up and down the city road, (also seen as 'Up and down the King's Highway')
In and out the Eagle,
That’s the way the money goes,
Pop! goes the weasel.
For you may try to sew and sew,
But you'll never make anything regal,
That’s the way the money goes,
Pop! goes the weasel.
In both England and the English colonies, extra verses have been added, some humorous and others serious:
All around the mulberry bush,
The monkey chased the weasel,
The dog, he thought 'twas all in fun.
Pop! goes the weasel.
or...
Round and Round the mulberry bush,
The monkey chased the weasel.
The monkey stopped to tie his shoe.
Pop! goes the weasel.
or...
All around the mulberry bush,
The monkey chased the weasel
The weasel thought it was all in jest
Til the monkey slew the weasel
(with other versions of the above where reason for murder is given (such as the weasel biting the monkey), or later verses describing how the deed was done, typically through strangulation)
or...
Ev'ry night, when I come home,
The monkey's on the table.
I take a stick and knock him off,
Pop! goes the weasel.
or...
Round and round the cobblers bench,
The monkey chased the weasel,
The monkey stopped to pull up his socks.
Pop! goes the weasel.
or...
Round and round the carpenter's bench,
The monkey chased the weasel,
The monkey thought 'twas all in good fun.
Pop! goes the weasel.
or...
Round and round the cobblers bench,
The monkey chased the weasel,
The monkey thought 'twas all in fun.
Pop! goes the weasel.
A penny for a spool of thread,
A penny for a needle.
That's the way the money goes,
Pop! goes the weasel.

Due to the obscure slang and cryptic reference "pop goes the weasel", there is considerable dispute over the rhyme's meaning.

Find another song from the period to learn.

Changes For Kirsten

Chapter One: On the Trap Line
Can your older siblings do things you can’t? What activities can you join in on? Can you do things without your younger siblings?

John teases Kirsten. Do your brother’s friends tease you?

Have you cared for a wounded animal?

Why should they leave the raccoon?

Talk to your parents or a park ranger about the difference between a wild animal and a pet.


Chapter Two: Fire!
What do you do in the winter?

Do you have a baby sibling?

What promises did Kirsten break?

Have you had to start over? What was it like?

Talk to your parents about an escape plan for your family in case of a fire.


Chapter Three: Good News?
What does your family do in troubling times?


Chapter Four: Old Jack
Have you ever been lost?


Chathper Five: Welcome Home
What changes has Kirsten experienced in the series?


Looking back
Talk to your mom, grandmothers and aunts about what appliances make their lives easier. Find out how daily life has changed in three generations.

Kirsten Saves the Day

Chapter One: The Bee Tree
Have you seen a bee tree?

Does you mother worry?

Have you gone fishing?

Have you been stung by a bee?

Do you think Kirsten can get the honey? Should she try?

Talk to your parents about the dangers of bees, and their benefits.


Chapter Two: In the Berry Patch
What is your favorite fruit?

Ask an adult to take you berry picking.

Should Kirsten worry about the bear cub?

How do you celebrate the Fourth of July?


Chapter Three: Bears!
Have you ever recklessly put yourself or someone else in danger?

How do your parents punish you?


Chapter Four: Bringing Back the Bees
Have you ever tried to help, only to have it not work out how you anticipated?


Chapter Five: The Best Basswood Honey
What gift do you want, more than anything in the world?


Looking Back
Have you gone camping?

Would you want to live in the wilderness forever?

Happy Birthday, Kirsten!

Chapter One: Tornado!
Have you been in a tornado? What did you do?

If you’ve moved, what do you have to remember your friends? If you haven’t moved, have you ever given someone something to remember you by?


Chapter Two: New Babies
Do you think it’s still dangerous to have a baby?

What things does your mom worry about?

Have you and your friends surprised someone?

What gifts have you given your teachers?

Do you help with younger siblings?

Compare your chores with Kirsten’s. Which would you prefer?

Have you seen new kittens or puppies?


Chapter Three: Big Enough
Wood Thrush:





Chapter Four: Party Plans
How do you celebrate your birthday?


Chapter Five: Friends Come Around
Make a daisy chain with your friends.

What music does your family listen to?

Have you danced with your dad?


Looking Back
Midwife is the term traditionally used to describe the art of assisting a woman through childbirth.

How do you help your family?

What do you want to be when you grow up?

Kirsten's Surprise

Chapter One: Pestering
Have you pestered your parents or siblings?

How do you prepare for winter?


Chapter Two: A Crown for a Queen
Read about Saint Lucia, also known as Saint Lucy.


Chapter Three: To Town at Last
Have you ever wanted to go somewhere that badly?


Chapter Four: Braving the Blizzard
Have you been in a blizzard? What was it like?

Do you think Kirsten should’ve told her father about Singing Bird?


Chapter Five: Silent Night, Lucia Night
Have you surprised your family?

Have you taken part in the feast of Saint Lucia?


Looking Back
Read some of the “Little House” Christmas stories. Compare their celebrations with Kirsten’s, and your own.

Kirsten Learns a Lesson

Chapter One: Miss Winston
Have you ever been the new girl in school?

Have you had a new teacher?

How do your teachers get acquainted with the students?

Have you ever had to learn a new language?

Read the words to the song. Imagine the class singing it together.

What games do you and your friends play?

Indian: What images come to mind?


Chapter Two: A Secret Friend
Have you memorized a poem or verse?

How do your teachers reward you?

What do you think of the Indian girl?


Chapter Three: Visitors
Would you want your teacher to live with you? Why?

Do you have a secret fort?

Our remaining Indians live on Reservations. Have you been to one?


Chapter Four: Singing Bird and Yellow Hair
How do you exercise your memory?

Have you lied to your parents? What happened? Why is telling the truth better?


Chapter Five: Belonging
Why do you think Kirsten memorized the poem so easily?

Have you ever preferred a friends family over your own? How were the families different?

How did Singing Bird help Kirsten?

Do you think they will see each other again?


Looking Back
What time do you get out of school?
How old were you when you first went to school?

Meet Kirsten

Meet Kirsten
Chapter One: America!
Where do you and your friends like to play?

Do you have relatives who live far away?

What would you do if you were on Kirstens ship, traveling to America for the first time, and someone in your family was sent back?


Chapter Two: Lost!

Cloudberries: The ripe fruits are golden-yellow, soft and juicy, and are rich in vitamin C. When eaten fresh, cloudberries have a distinctive tart taste. When over-ripe, they have a creamy texture and flavor somewhat like yogurt. They are often made into jams, juices, and tarts. In Sweden, they are also used as an ice cream topping.
Due to its high vitamin C content, the berry is valued as protection against scurvy. Its high benzoic acid content acts as a natural preservative.

Have you ever been lost? What did you do?

How did you reunite with your parents?

What could Kirsten have done differently?


Chapter Three: Across the New Land
How do you try to stay close to family?

This is my favorite picture in the book, which is your favorite?


Chapter Four: A Sad Journey
Cholera

Has a friend of yours died? How did you feel?


Chapter Five: Home at Last
What would you bring to a new world?

What’s the longest distance you’ve walked?

Meadowlark

Looking Back
What would you take on a journey like Kirstens?

Just a word of help....

Feel free to use the questions on this blog when discussing the books with your daughters. The questions are written for the girls to answer, but if you feel comfortable, answer them yourself first and discuss your answers with your daughter. This is meant to be a link to the past, to help you and your child find further adventures together. I've tried to stay away from the recipes in the books for copyright reasons. Play the games, listen to the music, sing the songs. When possible, visit the locations to involve your child in history. Happy reading, and above all, HAVE FUN!

Other Josefina

Welcome to Josefina's World
Compare Spanish Priest with modern missionaries.

A Reward for Josefina
Bunuelos

Who do you most want to please?

Looking Back: Harvest time in 1824
Pinon

Compare modern farms with Josefina’s Rancho

Again, Josefina!
Okay, I LOVE this story. Once again, excellent advice is offered to girls: practice. Also, multi-tasking can make time pass quicker.

Do you play an instrument? Was it easier or harder than you anticipated?

Thanks to Josefina
What can you do to help?

One person can make a difference. Without Josefina, the weaving wouldn’t have happened. Also, thanks to Josefina’s idea of each sister helping each other, the business went smoothly.

Secrets in the Hills: A Josefina Mystery written by Kathleen Ernst
Chapter One: A Secret Sign
Why do you think Fransisca and Josefina fight so?

Do you think a fancy shawl will heal their bitterness?

Chapter Two: Strangers
Do other girls resent you?

Could you imagine knowing exactly what you wanted to be, when you were only twelve?

Has a stranger ever come to your family for help?

What do you think the map is for?

Chapter Three: La Llorona
What legends does your family talk about?

Do you think they’ve found treasure?

Chapter Four: Frightening Prediction
Do you know someone who is always pessimistic?

What other reasons would a person not return to buried treasure?

Chapter Five: Beginning the Search
Have you traveled to a new place? What was it like?

If you haven’t traveled, do you know someone that has? Do they share any stories?

Chapter Six: A New Partnership
Do you know anyone who struggles to live alone?

Have you heard stories of buried treasure?

Chapter Seven: Trouble between sisters
Do you think Josefina saw a ghost?

What do you and your siblings fight about?

Chapter Eight: A Ghost in the Graveyard
Why is it important to listen to the stories of elders?

Do you think Josefina is seeing La Lorona?

Chapter Nine: Fransisca’s Surprise
Is it easier now for biracial marriages?

Why do you think Fransisca wasn’t more upset with Josefina?

Chapter Ten: The Widow’s Trunk
Do you think Josefina and Senor Zamora will be able to find the treasure?

How do you think Terestia felt, being stolen from her home?

Chapter Eleven: Searching for Gold
Do you think God led Senor Zamora to the Montoya Ranch for a reason?

Do you think they’ve found treasure?

Chapter Twelve: Secrets Revealed
Explain why the cross is a better treasure than riches.

How could Josefina help Soledad?

Why are legends like La Lorona important?

Chapter Thirteen: Heart’s Desire
Review how all Josefina’s wishes have come true.

Looking Back
Read about Saint Francis. Why do you think his feast day was chosen as the setting? Read the legend of La Lorona.

Changes for Josefina

Changes for Josefina
Chapter One: Gifts and Blessings
Compare Santa Claus with La Fiesta de los Reyes Magos

Listen to a waltz from 1824

Chapter Two: Sleet
Why didn’t Papa say something to Tia Dolores?

Why didn’t the girls plan work?

Do you know an optimist, like Josefina?

Have you ever been heartsick with sorrow?

Josefina’s Plan
Do you treat your parents with the same respect Josefina does?

Heart and Hope
Why was it important for Josefina to be there when Tia Dolores read the marriage proposal?

Looking Back
If you can, compare the persecution of New Mexicans with the hatred towards illegal immigrants today.

Talk to your daughter about which pictures were her favorite in each book, which is her favorite book, and why.

Josefina Saves The Day

Josefina Saves the Day
Chapter One: The Bird-Shaped Flute
How do you greet new adults?

Do you share secrets with your sisters, like Josefina?

Chapter Two: Heart’s Desire
Is there a day you’ll remember as long as you live?

Why was this day so special to Josefina?

What led Senor Montoya to trust Patrick?

'Home, sweet home"
'Mid pleasures and palaces though we may roam, Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home; A charm from the sky seems to hallow us there, Which, seek through the world, is ne'er met with elsewhere. Home, home, sweet, sweet home! There's no place like home, oh, there's no place like home! An exile from home, splendor dazzles in vain; Oh, give me my lowly thatched cottage again! The birds singing gayly, that came at my call Give me them-and the peace of mind, dearer than all! Home, home, sweet, sweet home! There's no place like home, oh, there's no place like home! I gaze on the moon as I tread the drear wild, And feel that my mother now thinks of her child, As she looks on that moon from our own cottage door the woodbine, whose fragrance shall cheer me no more. Home, home, sweet, sweet home! There's no place like home, oh, there's no place like home! How sweet 'tis to sit 'neath a fond father's smile, And the caress of a mother to soothe and beguile! Let others delight 'mid new pleasure to roam, But give me, oh, give me, the pleasures of home, Home, home, sweet, sweet home! There's no place like home, oh, there's no place like home! To thee I'll return, overburdened with care; The heart's dearest solace will smile on me there; No more from that cottage again will I roam; Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home. Home, home, sweet, sweet home There's no place like home, oh, there's no place like home!

Why do you think the author chose to include parts of this song?

Chapter Three: A Charm From the Sky
Can you read sheet music?

What stories does your family enjoy sharing?

Have you and your siblings ever worked together to get a gift for your parents?

Chapter Four: Shining Like Hope
Compare Papa’ reaction with everyone elses’.

Why did Papa’s reaction payoff in the end?

Looking Back
Read more about the Santa Fe Trail

Very Funny, Elizabeth!

Chapter One: The Merriest Girls in Virginia
Felicity and Elizabeth are frequently refered to as “The merriest girls in Virginia”. Do you and your friends have nicknames?

Do you think Elizabeth has changed since “Changes for Felicity”? How so, or why not?

Do you think being married is easy?

When do you hope to get married?

Chapter Two: Tarts for Tea
Would you want to marry someone you’ve never met?

Do you intentionally annoy an older sibling?

Chapter Three: Miss Priss
Do you think women really were miserable? Why or why not?

Were Elizabeth’s pranks appropriate?

Have you ever moved?

Could you imagine leaving your mom and dad to live in another country, knowing you would never see them again?

Chapter Four: Hot-Heads
What foods does your family eat at parties?Do you ever just do what your friends want?

Josefina's Bizcochito

Biscochito
From Beverly Hernandez, Your Guide to Homeschooling.

INGREDIENTS:
1 pound pure lard
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
6 cups flour
1/4 cup red wine
2 tsp anise seed (slightly crushed)
1 cup sugar mixed with 2-3 tsp cinnamon

PREPARATION:
1. Cream lard until fluffy.
2. Add sugar slowly gradually, beating well.
3. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well.
4. Add anise seed.
5. Mix in flour by hand, using enough wine to make dough soft.
6. Let stand about 10 minutes.
7. Use cookie press or roll out dough on lightly floured board and cut into squares.
8. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes on ungreased cookie sheets.
9. Remove from sheets while hot and dip top side in sugar/cinnamon mixture.

Happy Birthday, Josefina!

Chapter One: Spring Sprouts
What new and exciting things happen in this chapter?

Have you ever cared for a motherless pet before?

Why do you think Josefina felt pity on Florecita?

How has Josefina changed since the first book?

Chapter Two: Tia Magdaena
What springtime chores are your favorites?

Ask your parent or grandparent to tell you a story about their childhood.

Chapter Three: Second Chances
What do you want to be when you grow up? How is that similar or different from Josefina’s dream?

Have you ever broken something of value? What happened?

What second chances have you been given?

How do you and your friends play with dolls?

What are your dolls made out of?

Chapter Four: Rattlesnake
Have you ever had to act quickly to save a friend?

Looking Back: Feast Days and Childbirth
Were you born on a Feast Day? Whose?

Josefina's Surprise

Chapter One: Christmas is Coming
What do you think happened to Nina?

What are your favorite traditions?

Chapter Two: Where’s Nina?
What types of cookies does your family bake?

How do you decorate for Christmas?

What Songs do you sing?

Chapter Three: The Silver Thimble
What effect did the thimble have?

Chapter Four: La Noche Buena
The title of this chapter means “The Good Night”. Why was this a good night for Josefina?

Where do you find comfort?

Josefina Learns a Lesson

Chapter One: Light and Shadow
Why doesn’t Tia Dolores do the work for the girls?

What do you think of thunderstorms? Have you ever witnessed a flood?

How is Tia Dolores helping Josefina? Describe their relationship.

Chapter Two: Turning Blankets into Sheep
Has your family lost anything?

How do you help your family?

How is Tia Dolores like red wool?

Chapter Three: Rabbit Brush
Fransesca feels Tia Dolores is making the girls change. Is that good or bad?

How does your mom talk to your dad? Does she have a say in decisions? Compare their relationship to Tia Dolores and Papa.

Chapter Four: The First Love
What does reading mean to you?

What was Josefina’s lesson?

Looking Back
Don Quixote

Meet Josefina

Chapter One: Primroses
Josefina and her sisters have each taken on new roles since their mother died. Ana is the “mother”, Fransesca is the “beauty”, Clara is the practical one, and Josefina is the baby. What are your roles in your family?

This is the first book to include the death of a parent. Have you lost someone close to you? Can you relate to Josefina? What would you add?

Chapter Two: Abuelito’s Surprise
Do you have a relative that comes to visit? How often?

Can you play an instrument?

What do you like about music?

Chapter Three: A Gift for Tia Dolores
Listen to some recordings of Fandango music. Could you sit still?

When have you found courage?

Chapter Four: Josefina’s Idea
Which picture is your favorite?

Other Felicity

Felicity's Dancing Shoes
Okay, my question is this: how did Felicity squeeze her feet into Nan's dancing shoes? Her feet are either really small, or Nan's are really big. I love this story, because once again it shows what sisters will do for each other. What is up with the expression on Nan's face when Felicity is putting on the shoes?! It's so odd. I also like the moral: practice makes perfect. This story serves as a fun way to remind girls to practice. There's nothing new in the Looking Back section. If you've read the other ones, this one is pretty much the same. I'm trying to find dance instructions somewhere else for you. Let me know if you find them!

Felicity’s New Sister
I really think this story should be read after “Felicity Saves the Day” but before “Changes for Felicity”, since that’s when it takes place. This is a great story to read if a baby is expected. Moms and daughters should talk about Felicity’s responsibilities, and compare those to the child’s responsibilities. They should also talk about the jealousy Felicity had at staying home, and her bravery in the storm. The “Looking Back” section discusses childbirth and care in the 1770’s. Once again, it would be great to compare the clothing and toys to their modern counterparts. I’m going to find instructions to make a pincushion.

Felicity’s Valentine
How do you and your friends communicate during class?
Felicity Discovers a Secret
Have you ever ruined something that did not belong to you?
Do you have a neighbor who makes you nervous? Someone who is unkind, or different?
How should we treat people we don’t understand?
Why is it important to be kind?
Do you wear glasses? What do you think of them?
This looking back section is about glasses. Do you like any of the old glasses? What do you like/dislike about them?

Felicity Takes a Dare
Is Felicity brave or foolhardy?
How should we behave around animals we don’t know?
Do you like fairs, like the Publick Times?
Have you ever broken a bone? How?Do you think Felicity will change her behavior?
Welcome to Felicity's World
This book is great for home study about the Revolutionary War. If a child is not homeschooled, or is not an avid Felicity fan, they probably won’t care for it. It is written like a short textbook, and would be a great classroom tool.

Felicity’s Fashion Show & Play
This movie is also great for true Felicity fans. The introduction by Valerie Tripp is also worth a watch. If you’re planning on performing Felicity’s play, take a peek. It’s pretty good.

Felicity’s Elegant Tea Party
This tape was made in 1991 to introduce Felicity, and to encourage girls to attend the Tea Party. The narration is pretty corny, but it’s worth the watch to hear Valerie Tripp (who wrote the books) and Pleasant Rowland (the founder of Pleasant Company, and creator of American Girl) speak. I never had the chance to watch it as a child. It didn’t meet my current expectations, though. It is available at many libraries, and an avid Felicity fan may really like it.

Peril at King's Creek: A Felicity Mystery by Elizabeth McDavid Jones
Chapter One: An Interesting Guest
Do you like baby animals?

How does your family seat everyone at dinner and parties?

Where do you think Felicity has seen Mr. Haskall?

Chapter Two: Disturbing News
Dither

How has the war changed Felicity’s life?

How has Felicity changed?

Why do you think the Wentworths are so loyal to the Governor?

Chapter Three: An Uncommon Horse
Traitor

By definition, are the Patriots traitors?

Compare the way Mr. Haskall treats Felicity with the way everyone else treats her.

Chapter Four: Trouble at the Creek

Watercress

Foolscap

Haversack

Snakeroot

Creeping Thyme

Beech Drop

Yew

Leatherbark

Dog Fennel

Do you have a sister? Are you close to her?

Chapter Five: The Old Laundry
The Bartrams

What do you think of Mr. Haskall?

Have you ever lost a pet?

Chapter Six: The Path to Yorktown
What do you think about the relationship between Penny and Felicity?

Chapter Seven: Intruder in the Stable
Have you picked wild berries?

Warbles

Catbird

Snowball Flowers

Do you think it was a misunderstanding, Mr. Haskall being in Penny’s stall?

Chapter Eight: Mr. Haskall’s Secret
Research the Convention and discuss it.

What could a woman do to help during the Revolutionary War?

Chapter Nine: Maps
What do you think the note means?

Chapter Ten: Rendevouz

Chapter Eleven: Felicity’s Plan
What can Felicity do now?

Is her plan a good one?

Chapter Twelve: Pursuit
Isn’t it wonderful that Nan is growing up, and Felicity trusts her?

Can you imagine SLEEPING in stays?

Why is it good Mr. Haskall didn’t take Penny?

Chapter Thirteen: Betrayal
Explain the importance of the shoes throughout this book.Have you ever had to make a choice about loyalty, like Mr. Haskall?

Changes for Felicity

Chapter One: A Cardinal and a Bluebird
Knowing that most girls could not afford dolls, how wealthy do you think the Merriman's and the Coles were?

Find out how large Williamsburg was in 1774. How does that compare to your hometown?

How do you and your friends play?

Elizabeth named her doll after the Queen of England. Where do you find names for your dolls?

Have you seen a foal before?

What do you wear in the rain?

Chapter Two: Friends Divided
Is it wrong to be happy someone stays in jail forever?

If Elizabeth had known Jiggy Nye before, do you think she would feel differently?

How are Elizabeth and Felicity different?

Have you ever known someone in jail? How did that affect your family?

Chapter Three: Grandfather's Errand
Felicity is once again asked to be patient. Are you patient?

Can stubbornness be a good thing? Why is it more often bad?

Felicity turned to the Psalms, a book in the Bible, when she was troubled. What do you read when you are worried or scared?

Have you ever lost a grandparent? How did you feel?

Chapter Four: Into the Valley
Do you think this title refrences the Psalm?

Why do you think the author chose this title?

What good changes have you made?

Do you think everyone just needs a friend?

Do you know someone who could use a friend?

Chapter Five: Patriot
List the characters in the books, and what changes they have made throughout the series. Who has changed the most? Why do you think that is?

Looking Back
Do you think Felicity had to grow up fast with the war?

Have you ever had to grow up fast?

Felicity Saves the Day

Chapter One: King's Creek Plantation
Where do you go on summer vacation?

Here is a description of battledore and shuttlecock. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battledore Get together with some friends to play its modern counterpart, badmittion.

Chapter Two: Faithful Friends
Compare your behavior around guests with Felicity's. Which do you think is better?

Have you ever lost a pet? How would you feel to suddenly see it again?

Chapter Three: The Note in the Bottle
Felicity plays with Penny to relax, what do you do to relax?

Do you know a toddler like William?

Why shouldn't Felicity keep Ben's secret?

Have you ever kept a secret?

Chapter Four: Runaway
Felicity used homemade herbs to heal Ben's wound. What does your mom put on your scrapes?

Felicity knew it was wrong to help Ben. Even after she learned her father was looking for him, she continued to help him. Do you think she was dishonoring her father?

What else could she have done?

Did you ever do something you knew your parents would disapprove of?

Chapter Five: Penny Saves the Day
Have you ridden a horse before? Imagine how hard it must have been to ride a horse sidesaddle, in the rain. How do you think Felicity stayed calm?

How do you think Felicity's mother felt about the whole situation? Her husbands apprentice ran away, and her daughter tried to help him. What would you do?

Have you had to say goodbye to someone? Was it easy? Why?

Looking Back
What does your family do for vacations?

What is your favorite thing about summer?

Do you know anyone who has fought in a war? Do they talk about it? How do you think war changes people?

Happy Birthday, Felicity!

Chapter One: Springtime Promises

Chapter Two: Posie
Do you have any pets? When did you get them?

Do you know anyone who plays the drums?

Listen to some recordings of minuets. Listen to recordings of drum rhythms from the Revolutionary War. How are they different?

Trust is a common theme throughout Felicity's stories. Why do you think trust is so important?

Chapter Three: Grandmother's Guitar
Have you ever moved? Have you ever had to move from one country to another? What do you think that would be like?

Grandfather thinks Ben is not trustworthy because he is not loyal to the King. Does not being loyal to a King or President make a person untrustworthy?

Do you think Grandfather is like any people you know?

Listen to a recording of someone playing the spinet.

Felicity only wanted to make Annabelle jealous. Have you ever shown something off, just to make someone feel bad?

Felicity knew it was wrong to take the guitar, but she took it anyway. Have you delibrately disobeyed? What was your punishment?

Chapter Four: Drumbeats

This is a picture of Sweet William

How would you feel if you were Elizabeth?

Do you think Felicity is considerate of her friend's feelings?

Now imagine you are Felicity, how excited do you think she is?

Do you think her parent's would've listened to her talk about the marines plans if Grandfather had not been there? Why?

Chapter Five: The Long, Dark Night
Compare Felicity with the weed in the book.

Felicity's Surprise

Discussion Questions

Chapter One: An Invitation to the Palace
Have you ever been invited someplace special? What did you do there?

What things do your parents worry about, that you find annoying? Why do you think they worry about this?

Chapter Two: Sugar Cakes and Christmas Hopes
Annabelle seems pretty confident her Father's name will help her. Do you know anyone like that?

Listen to a piece of music from 1774 to better understand what they danced to.

Some schools still require dancing in physical education classes. Do you think this is a good idea? Why?

What are your hopes for Christmas this year?

Chapter Three:Tidings of Comfort and Joy
Mrs. Merriman has had a cough for several weeks. Do you know anyone who's been sick for a long time?

Felicity and her mother agree to work on her new dress together. What projects have you helped your parents with?

Do you like to dress up, or are you more tomboyish like Felicity?

What toys are special in your family? What are your family's Christmas traditions?

How often do you help your parents with chores? Do you help more when you know they are buying something for you? Ask your parents to help you learn a new skill this week.

Chapter Four: Gloom and Shadows
When Felicity's mom got sick, Felicity realized what was important in life. Have you ever had to re-think your priorities?

Chapter Five: A Season for Surprises
What is your favorite dress (or outfit)?

Do you like to dance?

Compare Elizabeth and Felicity with Cinderella and her fairy godmother.

Which picture was your favorite?

What did you like most about this story? What did you dislike?

Looking Back
Name some similarities in the modern Christmas and the Christmastide Season in 1774.

Vocabulary
Apothecary
mince pie
Shrewsbury cakes
Spinet

Felicity Learns a Lesson

Questions to Discuss

Chapter One: Apple Butter Day
Why did Felicity climb the roof?

Have you seen the flower inside an apple? Take an apple apart and examine it.

Have you tasted apple butter? If you can, visit a Farmer's Market and purchase some. It's great on toast!

Felicity's family enjoys evenings in the parlor together. What does your family do to relax together?

How did you learn to read? Who taught you?

Felicity wants to attend college. What do you want to be when you grow up?

What classes do you take in school? Would you like to learn dancing, handwriting, and serving tea, like Felicity?

What do you think of your teacher?

Chapter Two: Loose Tooth Tea
Have you ever done something you really didn't want to, just to see your parents pleased expressions?

How is Public Times similar to cities today?

Felicity's father was unhappy with the price of tea. Is there any price your parents are unhappy to pay? What do they do about it?

Do you have a nickname you don't like? Have you ever given someone a nickname they didn't like?

What are ways people can be polite today? Is it important to be polite?

How did you lose your first tooth? Have you ever lost a tooth somewhere embarassing?

Have you dealt with someone you'd rather not? What did you do?

Why is it important to be polite, even when others are rude?

Chapter Three: Tea in the River
Do you like your handwriting?

Why did the colonists throw the tea into the river?

Do you have an older sibling with a crush? Do they act like Annabelle does with Ben?

Felicity struggled with what her father believed, and what Annabelle was telling her. Have you ever been unsure about a situation? What did you do?

What effect did the "Boston Tea Party" have? How did this one act impact all of society?

Chapter Four: Bananabelle
Have you seen a wig? Read about why men and women wore wigs in Felicity's time. Try on a wig, if you can.

Do you have a bossy older sibling like Annabelle? How did you handle it? What should Elizabeth do?

Do any of Mr. Merriman's comments apply today?
Chapter Five: A Bright Red Cardinal Bird

Chapter 5:
Do you know anyone who has had a hard time standing up for herself?

Can you relate to Felicity's anger with Elizabeth?

Is it wrong to let someone say mean things without stepping up?

Have you ever not wanted to go to school? What happened?

How did Elizabeth feel about Felicity?

How have you mended friendships?

Looking Back
Where do you go to school? Who goes with you?

Where do you want to go to college?

Do girls still need to run a household?

How are your chores divided?

Can you stitch or sew?

What is your local newspaper like?

Vocabulary
Civilized:
Disloyal: Unfaithful
Hot-heads: Foolish
Ninny: A silly person

Meet Felicity

Questions to Discuss
These questions are for you to discuss with your daughter as you read the books together, or as she reads the books alone. These are just meant to be a starting point for further discussion.

Chapter One: Merriman's Store
Is Felicity's Father's store like the stores you visit? How is it different? How is it similar?

Felicity hates doing anything inside. Are there any chores you don't like to do?

How do you protect your skin in the summer? Would you prefer that, or wearing a straw hat like Felicity?

What do you think of the way Felicity and her friends speak? Which do you prefer, the way they speak, or the way we speak today?

Should Felicity try to see Mr. Nye's horse? Is that a good or bad idea?

Chapter Two: Penny
Felicity struggles with concentrating on her penmanship. Do you struggle with anything in school? Can you relate to Felicity's wandering imagination?

Felicity hates having to wear her summer hat. Is there anything you don't like to wear?

How is Felicity's neighborhood like yours? How is it different?

What do you think of the way Jiggy Nye treats Penny?

What do you think about what Felicity said to Jiggy Nye?

Chapter Three: Jiggy Nye's Threat
Is there anything your brother or sister can do better than you? Is there anything you are better at than them?

What do you do on rainy days?

Mrs. Merriman says "Haste makes waste". Do you think that still applies today?

Do your brother or sister follow you when you want to be alone?

How are your squabbles with your brothers' and sisters like Felicity's? How are they different?

How did Jiggy Nye react to Felicity's visit?

What was the family's reaction when Will told them about the visit?

Chapter Four: Ben's Promise
Should Felicity have snuk out of the house? What was dangerous about it?

Why is it important to obey our parents?

Felicity had to lie to her mother about where she was. If she had to lie about it, do you think it was wrong?

Should you borrow things without asking?

Do you wear dresses? Is there anything you can't do in a dress?

How would you feel if someone borrowed your clothes without asking?

Penny helped Felicity slow down, and learn patience. Is there anything you need to improve? How can you work on that behavior?

How did sharing the secret change Ben? Do you think he just needed a friend? How would you like to leave your family and friends just to learn a trade?

Chapter Five: Independence
Do you have a good luck charm?

What lessons did Felicity learn?

A Peek Into The Past
How are the clothes in Felicity's time different from the clothes today?

Do you like the way Felicity dresses?

How does your family eat dinner?

Do you eat any of the foods listed in the book?

Have you been to Colonial Williamsburg? What was it like? Did you like it? What was your favorite part?
If you haven't been, do you want to go? What do you hope to see there?

What was your favorite illustration in the book? What do you like about it?

How are you and Felicity similar? How are you different?

Vocabulary Words
Apprentice: One learning a trade under the charge of a craftsman
Chit: A bill, usually for a small amount; a marker
Colony: A government settlement for exploration
Independence: Freedom
Miffed: To be annoyed
Nag: One given to complaining
Ruffians: A hoodlum
Stays: "Stays" is another word for corset.

A Little Info

Hi all! This blog has been made just for you, so feel free to use it! I will have discussion questions available about each of the girls, recipies and crafts from each time period, and all the information you could want to help your daughter learn American history. Please bear with me, I'm re-reading the books one at a time (starting with Meet Felicity, since that was the earliest one on my shelf. Meet Kaya would've made more sense, but oh well. I will get to her eventually). You will find all the info for each girl under her title. Thanks for visiting, check back often!