Show Way — Content Guide for Parents
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Religious themes
PRESENTContains references to prayer and church attendance. A minister character plays a supporting role in two chapters.
About this book
Soonie's great-grandma was just seven years old when she was sold to a big plantation without her ma and pa, and with only some fabric and needles to call her own. She pieced together bright patches with names like North Star and Crossroads, patches with secret meanings made into quilts called Show Ways -- maps for slaves to follow to freedom. When she grew up and had a little girl, she passed on this knowledge. And generations later, Soonie -- who was born free -- taught her own daughter how to sew beautiful quilts to be sold at market and how to read.
From slavery to freedom, through segregation, freedom marches and the fight for literacy, the tradition they called Show Way has been passed down by the women in Jacqueline Woodson's family as a way to remember the past and celebrate the possibilities of the future. Beautifully rendered in Hudson Talbott's luminous art, this moving, lyrical account pays tribute to women whose strength and knowledge illuminate their daughters' lives.
Frequently asked questions
Is Show Way appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The book includes depictions of violence related to slavery, such as silhouettes of a man aiming a gun and images of enslaved people being whipped. These elements are part of the historical context presented in the story. There is no genuinely frightening content in 'Show Way'. The book addresses serious historical themes but does so in a manner suitable for children, without inducing fear.
Does Show Way have violence?
The book includes depictions of violence related to slavery, such as silhouettes of a man aiming a gun and images of enslaved people being whipped. These elements are part of the historical context presented in the story.
Does Show Way have scary content?
There is no genuinely frightening content in 'Show Way'. The book addresses serious historical themes but does so in a manner suitable for children, without inducing fear.
Does Show Way have religious themes?
No religious content is present in the book 'Show Way'. The narrative focuses on the lives of African American women and their history, without incorporating specific religious practices or beliefs.
Does Show Way have racial/cultural content?
The book centers on the experiences of African American women across nine generations, highlighting themes of race, identity, and the legacy of slavery. It portrays their struggles and triumphs in the context of American history.
Does Show Way have profanity?
No profanity is present in the book. The narrative is appropriate for children and does not include any harsh language.
Does Show Way have climate change?
There are no climate themes present in 'Show Way'. The book's focus is on personal and historical narratives rather than environmental issues.
Does Show Way have sexual identity?
There is no sexual content in 'Show Way'. The book is focused on the historical and familial narratives of African American women, particularly through the lens of quilting and freedom.
Does Show Way have gender roles?
The narrative actively discusses the lives of female ancestors and their roles as artists, quilters, and freedom fighters, showcasing traditional female empowerment and resilience. This reflects a focus on women's contributions throughout history.
Does Show Way have lgbtq+ themes?
No LGBTQ+ themes are present in the book 'Show Way'. The search results primarily discuss Jacqueline Woodson's broader body of work and her recognition within the LGBTQ+ community, but do not indicate any specific LGBTQ+ content in this particular book.
