THE SPLIT CHERRY TREE
By Jesse Stuart
The story takes place in rural Kentucky in the
first half of the 20th century (1930’s).
It is a state located in the upper south of the
United States.
Look at the following pictures.
What characterizes these type of small towns?
The rural areas are characterized as:
• Farmhouses – isolated, privacy
• Barns
• A lot of horses
• Nature- harvest in the summer, a lot of water (lakes, rivers), fertile land ,
agriculture
• All the family members take part in the chores- both in the house and the
farm. A strong family unit.
• No playgrounds for children
• No urban facilities such as hospitals, factories, etc.
• Most of the people in these areas aren’t rich at all. Some of them are
really poor
Additional information….
Despite its natural resources, the region was long
poor. Many of the early settlers were poor farmers
who were seeking cheap land. In the 19th century,
most of the economy was based on farming and
agriculture. In addition, the educational system
was weak due to lack of government funds and the
mentality of the local people. On the one hand,
these people valued honesty and hard work highly
but on the other hand, they failed to see a practical
need for formal education .
“If you spare the rod
you spoil the child."
-What do you think this means?
-Is there a similar expression in your
mother tongue?
It means if one does
not discipline a child, he
or she will never
learn obedience and good
manners.