What is decisiveness? How does someone show discretion? What does it mean to be flexible or available? When it comes to understanding and developing character traits, biographical stories are a powerful tool.
Powerful not only because they so effectively illustrate virtues but also because your young reader doesn't feel preached at.
These 10 stories are engrossing!
- Instead of being told, “You should express enthusiasm,” They will read about Pastor John Muhlenberg who influenced hundreds of men to fight in one of the first Virginia militias of the war.
- Instead of hearing that attentiveness is an attractive virtue, they get consumed with the story of Lydia Darragh who prevented a British victory by carefully listening to British plans and relaying that information to George Washington.
- Instead of being admonished be more generous, they see how Robert Morris used his financial assets to fund his country during a critical period.
Packed with adventure, danger, and real historical drama, these books keep your students turning pages as they devour tales of kidnappings, daring escapes, battles, and moments of courage.
Ten Key Virtues
In ten biographical sketches, see how a figure from the American Revolution demonstrates a key virtue.
- Alertness ~ Peter Francisco
- Attentiveness ~ Lydia Darragh
- Availability ~ Molly Pitcher
- Decisiveness ~ Captain John Paul Jones
- Discretion ~ General Nathanael Greene
- Enthusiasm ~ Pastor John Muhlenberg
- Flexibility ~ General Caesar Rodney
- Generosity ~ Robert Morris
- Honesty ~ Nathan Hale
- Persuasiveness ~ Patrick Henry
Relatable Emotions & Challenges
Each sketch puts readers in the shoes of people or those facing tough situations — fear, loneliness, anger, and triumph. Kids see themselves in these moments, not just as passive learners but as participants in the story.
Unexpected Heroes
Not all the heroes are famous or powerful. Some are teens, outsiders, or people who overcame huge obstacles. This makes the stories feel accessible and inspiring to kids who might not see themselves as perfect role models.
Interactive Questions
Each chapter ends with questions that invite readers to imagine themselves in the story, reflect on choices, and think about what they’d do. This reflection turns reading into a personal adventure, not just a history lesson.
Book Format
While the stories are ordered chronologically, each chapter can stand alone if desired. Each biographical sketch will take approximately 30 minutes to read aloud.
Each chapter is introduced with a definition of the virtue demonstrated and a relevant Bible memory verse. At the close of each story, comprehension questions help check for understanding while application questions foster discussion to bring the virtues into modern life.
Read this volume and the entire four volume series to fall in love with history, find heroes to emulate, and develop godly character.