Parent Guide > The Reef

by Samuel Scoville, Jr. 1923

Welcome to the parent guide for this text! Read below to find out about what your child is reading in class and how you can support him/her at home.

This week in class, we’re reading "The Reef" by Samuel Scoville, Jr..

In this short story by American writer Samuel Scoville, Jr., a young Caribbean boy accompanied by his grandfather goes sponge diving in the reef where a tiger shark killed his father—and where he faces dangers of his own.

As we read, we will be discussing the themes of Friendship & Family, Human vs. Nature, and Power & Greed as they relate to the text. We are trying to answer these big questions :

"Who's in control: humanity or nature?", "Does money buy happiness?", and "What makes a family?"

Ways to support your child:

  • Ask your child about this short story at home:
    • What was "The Reef" about?
    • What did you learn about Friendship & Family?
    • What did you learn about Human vs. Nature?
    • What did you learn about Power & Greed?
  • Watch Coral Reef Adventures at home with your child.