About This Book
Scott O'Dell's 'Sarah Bishop' is a powerful historical fiction novel set during the American War for Independence. It follows young Sarah, who, after the tragic deaths of her father and brother (who fought on opposing sides), finds herself alone and hunted by the British. Fleeing into the wilderness of colonial New York, Sarah must learn to survive entirely on her own, building a shelter, hunting, and enduring harsh conditions. The book delves into themes of grief, resilience, independence, and the complexities of loyalty during wartime. It's a compelling story for readers interested in history, survival, and strong female protagonists.
Left alone after the deaths of her father and brother who take opposite sides in the War for Independence, and fleeing from the British who seek to arrest her, Sarah Bishop struggles to shape a new life for herself in the wilderness.
Character Death
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Discussion Prompts
1
How does Sarah's experience of grief change throughout the story, and how does she cope with her losses?
2
What challenges does Sarah face in the wilderness, and what skills does she develop to survive?
3
The book is set during the American Revolution. How do the different loyalties of Sarah's family members impact her life?
4
How does Sarah's understanding of freedom and independence evolve as she builds her new life?
5
What does this story teach us about resilience and the human spirit in the face of extreme hardship?
6
If you were in Sarah's shoes, what would be the hardest part of her journey for you?
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