Don McLean's American Pie: A Fable



Last updated Thursday, December 8, 2022

Author: Meteor 17 Books
Date of Publication: 2022
ISBN: 1957317019
Grade Level: 1st    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Dec. 2022

Synopsis: A long, long time ago...

…in a small town, there lived a lonely newspaper boy. So begins this heartfelt story inspired by one of the most iconic works of American rock-n-roll.

Don McLean's American Pie: A Fable weaves elements and themes from the classic song with experiences from the singer-songwriter's own early years into a stunningly visual and uplifting tale for all ages. This fable reveals the emotional journey of a newspaper delivery boy in the late 1950s who discovers the joy of friendship and music, eventually learning that when you recognize what truly makes you happy, you're never really alone.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  What do you see on the book cover? (lots of things to point out: bike, crown/hat, newspapers, bag, guitar, etc.)
•  What do you think this book is about?

Vocabulary:

•  Neighbors - people living near or next door to the speaker or person referred to
•  Fling - to throw
•  Friendship - a relationship between two or more people
•  Imagination - the ability of the mind to be creative, form new ideas, images or concepts
•  Anticipation - the action of waiting for something to happen
•  Gleefully - joyful and happy

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  When do you use your imagination?
•  Have you ever written a letter?
•  What do you think happened to Buddy?

Craft ideas:
•  Make a crown from construction paper: be sure to grab scissors, glue/tape for the crown. the kids can color their crowns Crown templates: https://www.firstpalette.com/printable/princess-crown.html
•  Help the kids write a letter (maybe they can write a letter to Santa)

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!