Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan tells the heartwarming story of a woman named Sarah who travels to the prairie to meet a family hoping she’ll stay and become part of their lives. Through Sarah’s journey and the family’s hopes, young readers learn about love, resilience, and the meaning of family. The story encourages openness to change and highlights the strength that comes from kindness and connection, offering a gentle lesson on building relationships.

We use Sarah, Plain and Tall as the focus of a three-week literature unit. Here are a few examples of how the book is used:

• Geography Integration: Through mapping activities, children compare and contrast the geographical features of Maine and the Midwest prairie.
• Writing and Expression: Inspired by the characters’ correspondence, students embark on a letter-writing project.
• Historical Context and Crafts: Children engage in crafting projects and research assignments that illuminate daily life and technological advancements of the era, linking them directly to the story’s setting and its characters' experiences.
• Emotional and Moral Growth: Discussion sessions guided by the book encourage children to reflect on the themes of courage, resilience, and the meaning of family.