Summary
The book teaches children about what a refugee is and why people from all around the world must seek refuge in other countries such as America. The book uses child friendly definitions, examples, and illustrations to explain the different reasons why people of various countries must flee their home countries for safety and acceptance. Also, the book shares real stories of refugee children and what they love about their new home country that they fled to and why they love it.
Theme(s):
Struggles against nature, Struggles against pressures of society, Overcoming Adversity, Loss/Loneliness, Fairness/Unfairness, Racism/Prejudice, & Courage/Bravery
Personal Response
This book was a sliding glass door text for me because it allowed me to step into the world of refugees and feel their determination to live a peaceful, accepting, and happy life. I noticed the author uses the stories of real refugee children to help young readers make a deeper self to text connection. This is an inspirational text that teaches young readers how to be empathic and accepting to all people.
Teaching Ideas
I would integrate this book into our social studies and writing curriculum by having students participate in a pen pal writing task. I would have students write welcoming letters to refugee children, where they can ask questions and tell their pen pal about themselves and America. Also, I would have students send a self-portrait of themselves and have them ask that their pen pal send them a self-portrait of themselves back. This way we can create a diversity picture wall in our classroom.
Recommended Reading Level
Birth-PreK, Grade 01, Grade 02
