Summary
This story is about a first grader named Nari. Nari’s mother packed her favorite lunch for her first day of school, kimbop! However, Nari is reluctant to eat her lunch because the other students at school are saying that her food smells and looks funny. It is not until cultural appreciation day that the other students try Nari’s kimbop for the first time! After trying kimbop, the students are eager to learn more about her Korean culture!
Theme(s):
Acceptance, Culture, Kindness
Personal Response
I enjoyed how at the end of the story, a new student arrives, bringing a lunch that is foreign to the other students. Nari, explains to the new student that the same thing happened to her on the first day of school. Nari asks Vikram if she can try his naan bread, rather than making fun of it. She explains to Vikram that sometimes the other students need to be reminded to try something new. Overall, I enjoy how this story shows students embracing the differences among their peers.
Teaching Ideas
Often schools will host a cultural appreciation day, where students share their culture. Sometimes, students are encouraged to bring a traditional dish from their culture and to bring their family members. This story is a perfect read-aloud to show students why cultural appreciation day is both important and exciting! Also, this story could be used to support learning about Korean culture! It may also be used when fostering a positive environment, teaching students about acceptance and kindness.
Recommended Reading Level
Grade 01, Grade 02, Grade 03
