Course Description

If you are a 4th - 7th grader and love to read, discuss and explore literature, then this is the book club for you! In this course, we will read Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan. Gather together with other students to discuss this award-winning work of historical fiction that chronicles the life of a Mexican migrant farmworker in the 1930s. Book Synopsis: Esperanza thought she'd always live a privileged life on her family's ranch in Mexico. She'd always have fancy dresses, a beautiful home filled with servants, and Mama, Papa, and Abuelita to care for her. But a sudden tragedy forces Esperanza and Mama to flee to California and settle in a Mexican farm labor camp. Esperanza isn't ready for the hard work, financial struggles brought on by the Great Depression, or lack of acceptance she now faces. When Mama gets sick and a strike for better working conditions threatens to uproot their new life, Esperanza must find a way to rise above her difficult circumstances-because Mama's life, and her own, depend on it. Students will each be given a specific role which will guide the weekly discussion in response to what they have read. You may talk about events and characters in the book, the author's craft, or personal experiences related to the story. Literature circles provide a way for students to engage in critical thinking and reflection as they read, discuss, and respond to books. NOTE: This course will require the student to have a copy of the book and to complete the assigned reading each week and come prepared to each session ready for discussion and fulfilling his/her assigned role within the group. Homework/Time Commitment: Reading weekly assigned chapters. Supply List for Students: Esperanza Rising - can purchased on Amazon or Marketplace