About This Book
This heartwarming African-American folktale, based on an oral tradition first recorded in 1871, introduces readers to Old Sam, who runs a sawmill, and his lazy son. When a mysterious hired hand arrives, he not only helps with the work but also subtly teaches Sam's son a profound lesson about the importance of hard work, respect, and treating others well. It's a gentle story that models positive behavior and opens conversations about responsibility and empathy for children aged 4-11.
Old Sam hires a man to help out at his saw mill, and the hired hand also teaches Sam's lazy son a lesson about how to treat people.
Discussion Prompts
1
What did the hired hand do to teach Sam's son a lesson? Was it fair?
2
How did Sam's son change throughout the story? What made him change?
3
What does it mean to treat people with respect? How can we show respect in our daily lives?
4
Why do you think the hired hand didn't just tell Sam's son what to do?
5
What is something you've learned from someone new in your life?
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