• Bulk Order Discounts: Order 5 or more books (same title) and save 15%.
• Order Online: Order online with MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover, or PayPal.
• Order By Mail: Send your order with a school/district check. No personal checks accepted.

About the Book April Morning

April Morning tells the story of Adam Cooper, a boy coming of age in colonial Lexington, Massachusetts. Spanning just over 24 hours, the tale begins on the eve of the battles of Lexington and Concord, famously known as "the shot heard 'round the world," and ends with Adam's entry into the bloody and passionate conflict for American independence.

The novel's events are narrated through Adam's eyes, offering a personal lens through which to witness the turbulent events that led to the onset of the American Revolutionary War. As the collective mood in Lexington shifts from that of tense anticipation to explosive action, so too does Adam's understanding of freedom, loyalty, and the cost of war.

Navigating complex relationships with his father, a reserved and practical farmer, and his garrulous, idealistic grandfather, Adam is under mounting pressure to define his role in the community and the nascent rebellion. The central point of the novel comes as Adam faces the reality of battle for the first time, provoking within him a seismic upheaval of his previously sheltered world.

Themes in the book April Morning

Freedom and Independence: The pursuit of freedom in April Morning stands as a debate not only about the colony's liberty from British rule but also about Adam's personal emancipation. The story intricately weaves the themes of freedom and independence as Adam confronts societal expectations and his own maturation. Through internal conflict and external pressures, the story challenges readers to contemplate the true meaning of freedom.

Identity and Self-Discovery: Adolescence often marks the period of intense self-reflection and discovery, and this period in Adam's life is no different. He is compelled to question his allegiances, beliefs, and his place in a rapidly changing world. This theme is a veritable goldmine for discussing the struggle to forge a unique identity amidst cultural, familial, and individual expectations.

Sacrifice and Conflict: The Revolutionary War was steeped in sacrifice, a truth that is starkly portrayed in April Morning." The novel provides a lens through which to examine not only the bravery and valor of those who fought but also the everyday citizens who were thrust into a life-and-death struggle. The theme of sacrifice serves as a powerful teaching moment, prompting students to consider what individuals may need to relinquish in the pursuit of their ideals.

Activity Ideas    for the book April Morning

Historical Accuracies and Context: Use April Morning to illustrate the significant historical event that was the Battle of Lexington and Concord. By examining primary sources and comparing them to Fast's portrayal, students can engage in historical inquiry, fostering a more nuanced understanding of this pivotal moment in time.

Literary Analysis and Character Development: Conduct character studies on Adam, emphasizing his growth and the influences of historical circumstances on his development. Analyzing the secondary characters, such as Adam's father, Young Road, and the Widow Simmons, against the backdrop of the Revolution can deepen students' appreciation for how authors utilize characters to convey deeper meaning.

Thematic Discussions and Modern Parallels: Foster classroom discussions that draw parallels between the novel's themes and contemporary issues. Students can explore the nature of rebellion, the legitimacy of government, and the human cost of war, linking the past to current societal and political contexts. This not only strengthens critical thinking but also underscores the relevance of historical literature in shaping their understanding of the present.

Writing and Research Assignments: Assign students essays that explore various aspects of the novel, such as the role of women during the Revolution, the importance of storytelling in preserving historical memory, or a comparative analysis between the American Revolution and another significant historical event. These assignments encourage research and provide opportunities for students to express their understanding and interpretation of the text.

Collaborative Projects with History Classes: Collaborate with history teachers to design joint projects that combine historical knowledge with the novel's themes. This could involve staging reenactments, creating multimedia presentations, or organizing debates on Revolutionary War topics.