"Good Conversation!" A Talk with The McKissacks
This is just a short clip from the actual video. Click here to learn how you can view the entire video.
The McKissacks
Join this husband-and-wife writing team as they discuss "The Dark Thirty" and talk about the boundaries they've met and overcome as African-American authors.
- 20 minutes
- Nominated as best video of the year, "American Library Association"
Questions for classroom discussion and assignments:
- Note: The McKissack’s program is an excellent enhancement to a Black History Month curriculum.
- Patricia McKissack talks about growing up in the segregated south. Where does she say she could not go during these segregated years — and why?
- Patricia McKissack says that the most important information she can give her readers is that heroes come from all cultures. Research American heroes whose background is different than your own background/ancestors.
- Patricia McKissack says, “The races are like a lovely garden.” Interpret this comment. It can be done in an essay or illustration.
- Patricia McKissack shows the audience a Kente cloth from an African tribe. She describes its meaning and its colors. Write an essay on some sort of item (whether it’s an article of clothing, small sculpture, religious icon, toy) from your culture. Read the essay to the class, and if possible, show a picture of the item.