Arilla Sun Down facts for kids
![]() First edition
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Author | Virginia Hamilton |
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Country | United States |
Language | English |
Subject | Children's literature |
Published | 1976 |
Publisher | Greenwillow Books (US) Hamish Hamilton (UK) |
Media type | Print (hardback, paperback) |
Pages | 248 (unpaginated) |
ISBN | 9780688800581 |
OCLC | 2164959 |
Arilla Sun Down is a special children's novel written by Virginia Hamilton in 1976. This book tells the story of Arilla, a young girl who is learning about her own identity. Arilla has both African American and American Indian heritage. The story follows her journey as she explores what it means to be herself.
Discovering Arilla Sun Down
Arilla Sun Down is a powerful story about a young girl's life. It explores themes of family, heritage, and finding your place in the world. The book was published in 1976 and quickly became known for its unique main character.
Who is Arilla?
Arilla is the main character of the novel. She is a young girl who is trying to understand her background. Her parents come from different cultures. Her mother is African American, and her father is American Indian. This mix of cultures makes Arilla's journey of self-discovery very interesting.
Arilla's Family and Home
Arilla lives with her family. Her parents and older brother, Sun Run, are important to her story. The family often moves, which adds to Arilla's feelings of not quite belonging. These moves help her learn more about different places and people.
Arilla's Journey of Identity
Throughout the book, Arilla thinks about her heritage. She learns about the traditions and histories of both her African American and American Indian ancestors. This helps her build a stronger sense of who she is. Her journey shows how important it is to understand your roots.
What is the Story About?
The novel follows Arilla through different experiences. She faces challenges and learns important lessons. The story is told from Arilla's point of view. This lets readers see the world through her eyes.
Exploring Different Cultures
Arilla's mixed heritage is a central part of the book. She learns about the rich cultures of her family. This includes stories, traditions, and ways of life. The book celebrates the beauty of diverse backgrounds.
Growing Up and Finding Yourself
As Arilla grows, she learns to be proud of who she is. She understands that her unique background makes her special. The book shows that finding your identity is a journey, not a destination. It encourages readers to embrace their own unique qualities.
About the Author: Virginia Hamilton
The author of Arilla Sun Down is Virginia Hamilton. She was a very important American writer of children's books. Hamilton was known for her unique storytelling and for creating strong, memorable characters.
Virginia Hamilton's Life and Work
Virginia Hamilton was born in Ohio in 1936. She wrote more than 40 books during her career. Many of her stories focused on African American history and culture. She often explored themes of identity, family, and freedom.
Awards and Recognition
Virginia Hamilton won many awards for her books. She was the first African American author to win the prestigious Newbery Medal. She also received the Coretta Scott King Award multiple times. Her work helped shape modern children's literature.
Hamilton's Impact on Literature
Hamilton's books are celebrated for their depth and imagination. She often used elements of folklore and fantasy in her stories. Her writing encouraged young readers to think deeply about the world around them. She left a lasting mark on children's literature.
Why This Book Matters
Arilla Sun Down is an important book for young readers. It teaches valuable lessons about self-acceptance and cultural understanding. The story helps readers appreciate the richness of different backgrounds.
Lessons from Arilla's Story
The book encourages readers to think about their own identities. It shows that it's okay to be different. Arilla's journey teaches us to be proud of our heritage, whatever it may be.
Celebrating Diversity
Arilla Sun Down is a wonderful example of how literature can celebrate diversity. It helps young people understand and respect different cultures. The book promotes empathy and understanding among readers.