Module 4/SLIS 5420/September 21th
Caddie Woodlawn
by Carol Ryrie Brink

Bibliography 
Brink C.R.(2002). Caddie Woodlawn. New York: Simon Pulse (Original work published 1935). ISBN-13-978-0-689-81521-8

Summary

Everyday American pioneer life is shared through the tales of a spirited eleven year old tomboy, Caddie. Her adventures give a glimpse into the past as we discover the simple joys of keeping up with her brothers on their Wisconsin farm. She enjoys a good prank and is determined to avoid her mother’s wish of her becoming a young lady; but the kindness, courage, and compassion she displays make her the perfect friend.

My Impression

I especially enjoyed the relationships between characters. The closeness that the Woodlawn family shares through times of hardship and happiness make the characters come alive. Caddie has a very special bond with her oldest brother and often refers to him a friend. My favorite parts are when Caddie’s father finds her trying to fix the Circuit Rider’s clock and when he explains to her what responsibility comes with being a woman.

Reviews

"A spirited story that has plenty of action and strength." — Horn Book

"This Newbery Award winning book . . . has been reprinted with a charming reminiscence by the author about her grandmother Caddie . . . Told with style and grace and teamed with . . . fresh new illustrations, the story of Wisconsin frontier life in the 1860s will continue to attract readers today."--School Library Journal

Suggested Activities

The book often refers to ones looking forward to hearing news from other places. A great follow-up activity would be to spend some time looking at the format of a newspaper and discussing the differences between news articles and story writing. Have groups of students work together to create a newspaper of events from the story or of your own school.

The arrival of letters is a source of excitement in story. Review letter writing and have students write letters to relatives in other places or to students in other classes.