About This Book
Donald Crews's 'Shortcut' is a suspenseful and engaging story about a group of African American children who decide to take a shortcut home by walking along active railroad tracks. Their adventure quickly turns into a dangerous situation when they hear and then see a train rapidly approaching. The book vividly portrays their fear and their quick thinking as they scramble to safety. It's a powerful narrative for children aged 4-11, offering a thrilling plot while subtly opening conversations about safety, rules, and the consequences of risky choices. The book is known for its striking illustrations and fast-paced storytelling.
Children taking a shortcut by walking along a railroad track find excitement and danger when a train approaches.
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Scary Scenes
Discussion Prompts
1
Why do you think the children decided to take a shortcut on the train tracks?
2
How did the children feel when they realized a train was coming? What would you have done?
3
What are some rules we have to follow to stay safe, especially around places like train tracks or roads?
4
Have you ever felt scared but had to be brave? What did you do?
5
What lessons do you think the children learned from their experience?
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