Going Down Home with Daddy

By Kelly Starling Lyons

Going Down Home with Daddy by Kelly Starling Lyons
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The Story

A young boy travels before dawn with his family to Granny's farm for their annual reunion, where every child must find their own way to honor the family's history — but Lil Alan isn't sure what he'll bring.

Why It's Special

For the kid who lights up at family gatherings and loves hearing stories about where they come from, this is a book that makes going down home feel like the biggest day of the year.

  • Big idea: Family history isn't just told — it's carried forward by each new generation, one tribute at a time.
  • Vibes: Warm, rooted, and full of anticipation — like the hum of a car ride before sunrise turns into a house full of family.

Perfect For Kids Who

  • enjoy stories about big family gatherings
  • are working on finding their own voice within a group
  • respond well to quiet, reflective storytelling
  • love learning about where their family comes from

Ask Your Little Reader

  • Story & problem-solving: What do you think Lil Alan could share to honor his family's history?
  • Feelings & empathy: How do you think Lil Alan felt worrying about what to bring to the reunion?
  • Real-life connection: What stories does your family tell about where you come from?
  • Imagination: If you got to visit a place that meant everything to your family, what would you want to see there?
  • Family & traditions: What's a tradition your family does every year, like Lil Alan's reunion?

About This Book

Title
Going Down Home with Daddy
Author
Kelly Starling Lyons
Illustrator
Daniel Minter
Pages
32 pages

Story Attributes

Topics
Family
Emotions
Joy