Parent Guide > The War Prayer

by Mark Twain 1916

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 War Prayer" by Mark Twain.

In Mark Twain's "The War Prayer," a stranger visits a congregation praying for victory in war. In front of the entire congregation, this stranger outlines the cost on human life that this victory would entail. "The War Prayer" is Twain's scathing indictment on war and blind patriotism. 

As we read, we will be discussing the theme of War & Peace as it relates to the text. We are trying to answer this big question :

"How are we changed by war?"

Ways to support your child:

  • Ask your child about this short story at home:
    • What was "The War Prayer" about?
    • What did you learn about War & Peace?
  • Watch Short Film: The War Prayer at home with your child.