Summary
This ode takes place in Afghanistan, where war and conflict are around every corner. The young girl in this book looks to the sky as an escape to a better world. She envisions a world where there is peace as she travels through the clouds high up in the sky. This lyrical story shows that one’s imagination can take them to far away places when times are tough. This ode to peace that reminds readers of the need to be supportive and tolerant during tough times.
Theme(s):
war, peace
Personal Response
This book is beautifully written and although it talks about peace, I felt such empathy for the kids and families living in Afghanistan. I connected this book to ‘The Breadwinner’ by Deborah Ellis, where the main character, Parvana, is a young girl living through the same struggles in Afghanistan. This book would pair very nicely with ‘The Breadwinner’ because one can see another perspective on what life was like during that time and the beautiful illustrations may also aid in understanding.
Teaching Ideas
Students can write their own ode about peace. They should start by brainstorming using a graphic organizer; a list of things they’d like to escape from along with how they plan on escaping those things in order to find peace. Once done brainstorming, students can begin writing their first draft. They may need a short lesson on poetry writing and odes if they have not had one yet. Students can partake in the different stages of the writing process before submitting a final draft.
Recommended Reading Level
Birth-PreK, Grade 01, Grade 02
