In the winter of 1975, Eliot Wigginton was asked to create a book that would help elementary and high school students celebrate the Bicentennial. Reluctant at first, he accepted the invitation as a chance to help students in communities throughout the country participate in the experience of discovering the wisdom of our oldest generations of Americans.
This collection of narrative interviews is the result of the efforts of hundreds of students who shared that experience. Here are the stories of a Cajun trapper from Louisiana, an Eskimo teacher from Alaska, a banjo maker from North Carolina, a fireman from Illinois, and those of over 35 years. Their lives reflect the diversity of the American experience, yet at the same time illustrate the common values and beliefs these men and women feel succeeding generations should preserve. They speak from the perspective their age allows. With clarify and perception they articulate our past, present, and future in stories of value to all their 'children.'
This collection of narrative interviews is the result of the efforts of hundreds of students who shared that experience. Here are the stories of a Cajun trapper from Louisiana, an Eskimo teacher from Alaska, a banjo maker from North Carolina, a fireman from Illinois, and those of over 35 years. Their lives reflect the diversity of the American experience, yet at the same time illustrate the common values and beliefs these men and women feel succeeding generations should preserve. They speak from the perspective their age allows. With clarify and perception they articulate our past, present, and future in stories of value to all their 'children.'
