This story takes place during the Great Depression and focuses on the lives of the “dust bowl” immigrants who came to California seeking a better life, but who found instead harsh treatment and poverty wages. It tells how Leo Hart, a caring educator fighting stiff opposition from local school boards and the public, eventually leads a bunch of “Oakie” kids to build their own school where they learned self-respect and a true sense of community.
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Grade Level 4-12
Prevention/Folklore/Character Education