About This Book
Jean Craighead George delivers a moving story about a young boy named Charlie who believes a baby raven, Blue Sky, can cure his ailing naturalist grandfather. Inspired by his Teton Sioux friend, Singing Bird, Charlie brings the raven home, leading to a profound connection and a journey of discovery. The book explores themes of responsibility, the wonders of the natural world, the cycle of life and death, and the unique bond between humans and animals. It gently addresses the difficult topic of a loved one's declining health while celebrating the resilience of nature and the power of observation.
When Charlie's friend Singing Bird, a Teton Sioux, tells him that ravens have curing powers, Charlie steals a baby bird from its nest hoping it will cure his grandfather, and Granddad, a retired naturalist, encourages Charlie to record his observations of the bird and study the effect it has on humans.
illness
peril_danger
Character Death
Discussion Prompts
1
Why did Charlie believe the raven could cure his grandfather? What do you think about the idea of animals having 'curing powers'?
2
What responsibilities did Charlie take on when he brought Blue Sky home? How did he show he was a good caretaker?
3
How did Granddad's love for nature influence Charlie? What did they learn from observing Blue Sky?
4
The book talks about life and death. How did Charlie and his family cope with Granddad's illness? What feelings did they experience?
5
What did you learn about ravens from this story? What other wild animals are you curious about?
6
How did Singing Bird's Teton Sioux culture influence Charlie's understanding of nature and the raven?
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