About This Book
This Newbery Medal-winning chapter book tells the tender story of the Witting family in 1910 Kansas. Widower Jacob, still grieving his wife's death, places an advertisement for a mail-order bride. Sarah Wheaton, "plain and tall," arrives from Maine, bringing a quiet warmth and competence that captivates Jacob's children, Anna and Caleb. The narrative beautifully explores themes of loss, loneliness, and the hesitant formation of a new family. The central tension lies in Sarah's homesickness for the ocean and whether she will choose to stay on the vast, flat prairie. It's a gentle, poignant exploration of belonging and the courage to embrace new love after loss, suitable for children aged 6-10.
When their father invites a mail-order bride to come live with them in their prairie home, Caleb and Anna are captivated by their new mother and hope that she will stay.
sadness_grief
loneliness
Discussion Prompts
1
How do Anna and Caleb feel about their mother who passed away? How do they feel about Sarah coming to live with them?
2
What does "plain and tall" mean to you? How does Sarah show her personality through her actions?
3
Why does Sarah miss the ocean so much? Have you ever missed a place or a person very much?
4
What are some ways the Witting family shows kindness and understanding to Sarah?
5
Do you think it's hard to start a new family? What makes a family feel like home?
External Reviews
Awards
1 award
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