Finding Your Own 'Thimble Summer'

Welcome! Today we're diving into the world of Garnet Linden and her exciting summer on the farm in Wisconsin. 'Thimble Summer' is a story about ordinary life made extraordinary by a little bit of luck and a lot of adventure. Let's explore it together!

Part 1: The Magic Thimble (Introduction - 10 mins)

Remember how Garnet found the silver thimble by the riverbank just before the rains came? She felt it brought her luck. Think about a time you felt lucky, or maybe wished for good luck. What symbols or objects make people feel lucky? (Optional: Show the 'lucky charm' object you prepared). Let's keep the idea of 'luck' in mind as we read and discuss.

Part 2: Garnet's Journey (Character Study - 20 mins)

Garnet is the heart of the story. Let's think about her personality. In your notebook, jot down 3-5 words that describe Garnet at the *beginning* of the summer. Now, think about her experiences: finding the thimble, the fair, getting locked in the library, Citronella. How do these events change her or show different sides of her personality? Find one example from the book that shows Garnet being brave, resourceful, or thoughtful. Write down the page number and briefly explain the example. Discuss: How does Garnet grow or change by the end of the summer?

Part 3: Life on the Farm (Themes & Setting - 20 mins)

The story gives us a wonderful picture of life on a farm during the 1930s. What details about the setting stand out to you? (e.g., the drought, the daily chores, the community fair). How does this setting influence the story's events and what the characters do? Besides luck, what other important ideas or themes run through the book? Think about:

• The importance of family
• Hard work and perseverance (especially during the drought)
• Simple joys and adventures
• Community

Part 4: Your 'Thimble Summer' Moment (Creative Response - 15 mins)

Garnet's summer was special because of unexpected events and simple pleasures. Now it's your turn to be creative! Choose ONE of these options:

1. Draw your favorite scene from 'Thimble Summer'.
2. Write a short journal entry from Garnet's perspective about one of her adventures (like arriving at the fair or meeting Citronella).
3. Design your own 'lucky charm' like the thimble. Sketch it and explain why it might bring good fortune.

Part 5: Wrapping Up (Conclusion - 5 mins)

Share your creative response! What was your favorite part of Garnet's summer? What did you learn about farm life or about Garnet herself? 'Thimble Summer' shows us that adventure and maybe even a little bit of magic can be found in everyday life, especially during summer!