Alte Zachen / Old Things
What’s inside...
This first graphic novel from Cicada follows 11-year-old Benji and his elderly grandmother, Bubbe Rosa, as they traverse Brooklyn and Manhattan, gathering the ingredients for a Friday night dinner. Bubbe's relationship with the city is complex - nothing is quite as she remembered it and she feels disconnected from her past. As they move through the city, they encounter various obstacles and meet different characters, each adding to their adventure and helping Bubbe reconnect with her memories. The novel beautifully illustrates the bond between Benji and Bubbe Rosa, along with the ever-changing landscape of the city. This graphic novel is also notable as it is illustrated by Benjamin Phillips, who won the V&A Illustration for Children Award.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
12-17
Length
72 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What old things did you see in the book, and what stories do you think they might hold?
How do you think the characters felt when they discovered or interacted with these old things?
Why do you think it's important to keep old things, and what can we learn from them?
Can you think of an old thing in our house? What story or history does it have?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think deeply about the history and stories behind old items, perhaps by relating them to something familiar. Use expressive questions to help them articulate their thoughts and feelings about the book. Discuss the importance of preserving history and memories, and consider visiting a local museum or exploring family heirlooms together to deepen the connection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of history and heritage
Explanation: Through the story, children see how old items like clothes, toys, and books connect to their family's past, teaching them to appreciate their heritage.
Real-World Application: Children can engage in discussions with family members about heirlooms or old photographs, helping them to connect with their historical roots and understand the stories of their ancestors.
Example Lesson: Importance of recycling and reusing
Explanation: The book illustrates the process of finding new uses for old things, which encourages a mindset of sustainability among young readers.
Real-World Application: Children can practice recycling at home by finding ways to reuse old items, thus contributing to environmental sustainability.
Example Lesson: Creativity and imagination
Explanation: By exploring how old items can be transformed, the book fosters creativity, inviting children to envision multiple uses for a single object.
Real-World Application: Children can undertake creative projects using old materials, boosting their imaginative skills and problem-solving abilities.
Example Lesson: Respect for belongings
Explanation: The narrative highlights the care shown towards old items, teaching children to treat their own possessions with respect.
Real-World Application: This lesson can translate into children taking better care of their toys and books, helping them value and maintain their personal belongings.
Example Lesson: Learning from the past
Explanation: The book demonstrates how old objects can tell stories and impart lessons, thus valuing the past enhances learning.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by showing interest in family stories, historical events, or cultural traditions, enriching their knowledge and understanding of the world.