Secret of the Andes by Ann Nolan Clark teaches young readers about heritage, humility, and the search for identity. Through Cusi’s journey in the mountains of Peru, the story highlights the importance of understanding one’s roots and embracing the wisdom of the past. It encourages reflection, self-discovery, and respect for different cultures. This thoughtful tale inspires readers to value tradition while finding their own path.

Here's some examples of how we use this Secret of the Andes in our homeschool literature unit based on this book. 

• Geographic Context and Exploration: Before diving into Cusi's story, students explore the geography of the Andes Mountains. Activities include mapping exercises and research on Peru.
• Cultural and Historical Insights: As part of the curriculum, students delve into Incan history and culture, drawing parallels to themes in the book.
• Language Arts Skills Development: The curriculum includes language arts activities centered around the novel. These range from vocabulary expansion, focusing on words and concepts from the story, to writing assignments that encourage students to reflect on themes and characters.
• Creative and Critical Thinking: Through guided discussions, students examine the moral dilemmas and cultural differences presented in the book. They also undertake creative projects, such as creating their own Incan artifacts or designing a visual storyboard of the story.