What is boldness? How does someone show initiative? What does it mean to be wise, tolerant, or sensitive? When it comes to understanding and developing character traits, biographical stories are a powerful tool.
Powerful not only because they so effectively illustrate virtues but also because your young reader doesn’t feel preached at. The 10 stories in Profiles of Integrity Vol. 2 are engrossing!
Instead of being told, “You should be truthful,” they will read about Sacagawea who accurately translated and reported facts during the Corps of Discovery expedition, even leading them through the Rocky Mountains on their return journey. Instead of hearing that gentleness is an attractive virtue, they get consumed with the story of President Abraham Lincoln who showed compassion to a young, dying Confederate soldier, comforting him and praying with him despite their opposing sides. Instead of being admonished to be more orderly, they see how Colonel Charles Marshall’s meticulous record-keeping ensured that the surrender terms at Appomattox Court House were accurately drafted, playing a vital role in officially ending the Civil War.
Packed with adventure, danger, and real historical drama, these books keep your students turning pages as they devour tales of daring raids, clever ingenuity, sacrificial love, and harrowing battles.
Ten Key Virtues
In ten biographical sketches, see how a figure from American or British history demonstrates a key virtue. Boldness ~ Captain John S. Mosby Gentleness ~ President Abraham Lincoln Initiative ~ Colonel John Hunt Morgan Orderliness ~ Colonel Charles Marshall Respectfulness ~ Francis Scott Key Sensitivity ~ General Robert E. Lee Tolerance ~ William Booth Truthfulness ~ Sacagawea Virtue ~ Queen Victoria Wisdom ~ Matthew Fontaine Maury
Relatable Emotions & Challenges
Each sketch puts readers in the shoes of people or those facing tough situations — death, hostility, natural threats, and breakthroughs. Kids see themselves in these moments, not just as passive learners but as participants in the story.
Unexpected Heroes
Not all the heroes are famous or powerful. Some are teens, outsiders, or people who overcame huge obstacles. This makes the stories feel accessible and inspiring to kids who might not see themselves as perfect role models.
Interactive Questions
Each chapter ends with questions that invite readers to imagine themselves in the story, reflect on choices, and think about what they’d do. This reflection turns reading into a personal adventure, not just a history lesson.
Book Format
While the stories are ordered chronologically, each chapter can stand alone if desired. Each biographical sketch will take approximately 30 minutes to read aloud.
Each chapter is introduced with a definition of the virtue demonstrated and a relevant Bible memory verse. At the close of each story, comprehension questions help check for understanding while application questions foster discussion to bring the virtues into modern life.
