The Magic Sash
By Robert Yaniz Jr.,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Time travel adventure through the history of women's rights.
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What’s It About?
THE MAGIC SASH follows two modern fifth-graders as they travel back in time to the women's suffrage movement. Along the way, they cross paths with key historical figures and experience some of the biggest moments – such as the signing of the Declaration of Sentiments in 1848 – first hand. Presented by the Women's Suffrage Centennial Commission, the show highlights the suffragettes who inspired future generations – including this one – to fight for progress. Aly Raisman, a gold-medal gymnast and advocate, also interjects with historical context that makes it easy for young listeners to follow the straight line from the early days of the women's rights movement to today's continuing fight for equal rights for all.
Is It Any Good?
The Magic Sash takes an uncompromising but kid-friendly look at women's suffrage, informing modern listeners of the story behind the 19th Amendment, which secured women's constitutional right to vote. Through the lens of two time-traveling fifth-graders, the show takes listeners on a tour through this particular facet of American history. It serves as a good reminder of how today's citizens shouldn't take for granted the rights they currently enjoy.
Even with its important message, the show doesn't feel like an educational lecture. The voice acting and musical score add a suspense element and the time travel gives it a breezy feel like the Back to the Future films or Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure. Some young listeners might get so caught up in the fun of it all they won't realize how much they're learning. That's the best kind of educational program for kids, infusing knowledge and heart into an accessible package. The Magic Sash aims to remind listeners of the legacy preceding them and the destiny ahead.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how The Magic Sash boldly uncovers the women's suffrage movement and the lack of equal rights in American history. At what age is it appropriate to teach children these truths in school? How do podcasts like this help to introduce kids to important, but difficult parts of our history, in an age appropriate and interesting way.
In The Magic Sash, Lotty and Isaiah come to realize how the actions of previous generations affect them today. What message does the show convey with the contrast between today's kids and their ancestors?
The Magic Sash ultimately uses time travel as a device to educate young listeners about some critical periods in American history. Is it necessary to include fantastical elements on the show? Why or why not?
Perseverance is a strong theme throughout the podcast. Why is this an important character strength?
Podcast Details
- Release date: August 5, 2020
- Genre: History
- Average Run Time: 15 minutes
- Website: https://www.trax.fm/the-magic-sash
- Host: Aly Raisman
- Production Company and Network: TRAX from PRX
- Pricing structure: Free
- Topics: Great Girl Role Models , History
- Character Strengths: Perseverance
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: December 8, 2023
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