Like the Willow Tree

Name: Like the Willow Tree
ISBN: 9781338724325

by Lois Lowry

Lydia Pierce and her brother are orphaned by the devastating 1918 flu. They are sent to live with their uncle in a Shaker community, where they must adapt to a completely new way of life.

About This Book

This historical fiction novel, part of the beloved Dear America series, tells the poignant story of Lydia Pierce, an eleven-year-old girl who loses both parents to the 1918 influenza epidemic. Along with her older brother, she is taken in by their grieving uncle and brought to the unique Shaker community at Sabbathday Lake in Maine. Told through Lydia's diary entries, the book explores themes of grief, resilience, and finding belonging in an unfamiliar world. It offers a sensitive portrayal of loss and adaptation, while also providing a fascinating glimpse into the history and daily life of the Shakers.

After being orphaned during the influenza epidemic of 1918, eleven-year-old Lydia Pierce and her fourteen-year-old brother are taken by their grieving uncle to be raised in the Shaker community at Sabbathday Lake. Includes author's note about the Shakers.

Concepts

Sadness & Grief Loneliness & Belonging Resilience & Perseverance Love & Family Self-Confidence & Identity Curiosity & Wonder Empathy & Kindness Freedom & Independence Death of a Loved One Moving Being Different Growing Up History Family & Siblings

Heads up, parents

Character Death

illness

separation_from_parent

Discussion Prompts

How does Lydia cope with the loss of her parents? What helps her feel better?

What are some of the biggest differences between Lydia's old life and her new life in the Shaker community?

How do the Shakers show kindness and community to Lydia and her brother?

What does it mean to be resilient? How does Lydia show resilience throughout the story?

What did you learn about the 1918 influenza epidemic or the Shaker way of life from this book?