A House of Tailors by Patricia Reilly Giff tells the story of Dina, a young immigrant girl adjusting to life in America while helping her family through hard work and determination. The book teaches values like resilience, adaptability, and the importance of family. Dina’s journey shows readers how challenges can lead to personal growth and new opportunities. It inspires kids to face difficulties with courage and to appreciate the support of loved ones.

We use A House of Tailors as the focus of a three-week literature unit. Here are a few examples of how the book is used: 

• Historical Context and Research: Students add A House of Tailors to their "Timeline of American History," providing a contextual anchor for understanding the era. Further research into Germany's situation in the 1870s enriches their comprehension of Dina's reasons for emigrating. 
• Creative Writing and Narrative Skills: Through guided activities, students craft their own narratives, imagining the challenges of immigrating to a new country. 
• Cultural and Ancestral Exploration: The curriculum prompts students to investigate their own family histories, mirroring Dina's journey. This exploration into genealogy and cultural background ties personal history to broader historical trends. 
• Comparative Analysis: Students compare and contrast life in America then and now, assessing the impact of immigration on American culture and their own lives.