
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.