Recommended for: Intermediate Years (4th-8th)

Create lasting connections through this rich story while you study themes such as science, nature, geography, history, and language arts. This four-week book study is a digital download you can use in your homeschool or as book study with a group. Each download includes:

• Across Five Aprils Book Study with weekly lesson plans, recipes, and more
• Across Five Aprils Book Report Template
• Across Five Aprils Extension Book List
• Multimedia Reference Materials links
• Book Club Meet-up Guide

Overview of Across Five Aprils

Across Five Aprils tells the story of nine-year-old Jethro Creighton as he comes of age in Southern Illinois during the Civil War. He is guided by his revered teacher and mentor, Shadrach Yale. As the war unfolds, Jethro watches his family divide: some of his brothers join the Union army, while one, to the shock of their community, enlists with the Confederacy. Over the course of five Aprils, from 1861 to 1865, Jethro faces hardship, uncertainty, and the emotional toll of a country at war. This beautifully written novel raises powerful questions about loyalty, courage, and the true cost of peace, while encouraging empathy for those on all sides of conflict. 

Themes in Across Five Aprils

There are many themes in Across Five Aprils you will explore through videos, notebooking, and projects. Explore any themes more in-depth that really stick out to you or spark the interests of your children.

• Civil War battles
• Civil War characters
• Civil War homefront: Illinois
• Abraham Lincoln
• Letters & mail
• Farm work
• Deserters
• Courage & grit
  

Book Disclaimer

This book includes some instances of slavery, war, violence, and death. We encourage parents to review all literature selections in advance to ensure they align with your family’s values and age levels. For a detailed content overview, click here to read the Parent Guide Review on Common Sense Media.