Product Overview
My Brother Sam Is Dead: A Family Torn By War
With this book, students will get an historically accurate picture of what life was like for families during the American Revolutionary War.
Ordering Books for My Brother Sam Is Dead by James L. Collier & Christopher Collier
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About the Book My Brother Sam Is Dead |
Tim Meeker is a teenager living in Redding, Connecticut, during the American Revolution. His brother Sam joins the Continental Army, putting him at odds with their Loyalist father. The conflict forces Tim to confront his beliefs and make difficult choices. The story highlights the personal struggles faced by families during the war and the broader societal impact. Tim's admiration for Sam's bravery is tested as he witnesses the harsh realities of war. The narrative vividly portrays the impact of warfare on civilians and soldiers alike. Tim struggles with loyalty, family bonds, and growing up in a time of chaos. The authors expertly weave historical facts into the story, making it educational as well as impactful. My Brother Sam Is Dead is a Newbery Honor book.
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Themes in the book My Brother Sam Is Dead |
Loyalty and Conflict: One of the central themes in My Brother Sam Is Dead is loyalty. Tim's family is torn apart by differing loyalties to the Crown and the Revolution. This internal conflict mirrors the broader divisions of the time. Students can explore what loyalty means and how it can be both a strength and a source of conflict. The Horrors of War: The novel does not shy away from depicting the brutal realities of war. Through Tim's eyes, we see the suffering and devastation that conflict brings. This theme can lead to discussions about the true cost of war and its impact on individuals and communities. Growing Up: Tim's journey from boyhood to maturity is another important theme. The challenges he faces and the decisions he makes shape his development. This theme can resonate with students who are themselves in a period of growth and change.
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Activity Ideas for the book My Brother Sam Is Dead |
Historical Context Research: Have students research the American Revolutionary War to provide context for the novel. This could include looking at the causes of the war, key battles, and important figures. Students can present their findings in a creative way, such as through a mock news broadcast or a series of diary entries from different perspectives. Debates and Discussions: Encourage students to debate the various points of view presented in the book. For example, they could discuss whether Sam was right to join the Continental Army or whether Tim's father's loyalty to the Crown was justified. This can help students develop critical thinking and public speaking skills. Connecting to Modern Issues: Draw parallels between the themes in My Brother Sam Is Dead and contemporary issues. For example, students can compare the divisions within Tim's family to political or social divisions today. This can help them see the relevance of historical events to their own lives. Discussion Questions: Prepare a list of discussion questions to guide classroom conversations. Here are a few to get you started:
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