SuitabookThe silent witness
Robin Friedman
- Reading
- Before reading, briefly place the story in the Civil War period; afterwards, invite your child to distinguish what happens to Lula’s family from the wider history.
- Themes
- War and family life: Troops arrive near the McLean family’s home, and the family moves away from the war. The historical period is approached through its impact on one family rather than only through military events.
- A child’s place in history: Lula is playing with her rag doll when two visitors arrive at her home; she and the doll are described as becoming part of American history. The narrative uses an ordinary childhood object and experience to connect Lula with a larger historical account.
- Worth knowing
- The setting includes troops fighting, cannon, trenches and tents, as well as the family leaving home. The extent of any battle depiction or distress is unclear.