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.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
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.
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
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
Monday, May 21, 2007
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?
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?
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
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.
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.
Monday, May 14, 2007
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?
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?
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
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
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
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?
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.
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
Monday, May 7, 2007
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
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
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
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
Sunday, May 6, 2007
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
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.
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!
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