About This Lesson
This lesson introduces students to the life and literary contributions of Mary Pope Osborne, acclaimed author of the Magic Tree House series. Through direct excerpts from an AFT Share My Lesson keynote webinar, students will examine Osborne’s personal journey—from her imaginative childhood through the creation of her bestselling series, to her impact on literacy, education, and global awareness.
The mini-lesson portion provides foundational context, while the group activity deepens analysis by focusing on five key themes: childhood imagination, creative process, reader influence, educational outreach, and global inclusion. Students will work collaboratively to analyze Osborne’s message, draw connections to her values, and consider how authors use their platforms to inspire social change and a love for reading.
The lesson emphasizes close reading, author’s craft, and the power of narrative nonfiction, while encouraging personal reflection and classroom discussion.
