Book details
Earthquake: The Diary of Katie Bourke, Napier, 1930-31 (My Story S.)
Description
Napler in the 1930s was a time of going without. The story starts on the 25th of June, 1930 - a sad day in the Bourke household - the funeral of Katie's father. This Catholic family must now survive with earnings from the older siblings and the washing Katie's mother takes in. When older brother Tom returns home, after a long absence, it is a help - but with him come other troubles. Katie records the events in the old diary her father used to keep. It is her way of speaking to her dad. Then, in February 1931, disaster strikes the small town...an earthquake that destroys the school and much of the town centre.
Age
9-12
Text complexity
proficient
Book in series
#5
Why to read
- Historical Insight: The book provides an authentic glimpse into the experiences of a young girl, Katie Bourke, during the devastating 1931 Napier earthquake in New Zealand, offering readers a personal and historical perspective on a significant natural disaster.
- Educational Value: Reading this book can educate readers about the impact of natural disasters on communities and individuals, as well as the resilience and recovery efforts that follow. It's a valuable resource for learning about the history of New Zealand and the challenges faced during the early 20th century.
- Emotional Connection: Through the diary format, readers can connect emotionally with Katie's story, empathizing with her fears, hopes, and struggles as she navigates life after the earthquake. This emotional engagement can make the historical events more relatable and impactful.
- Cultural Understanding: The book offers a window into the culture and society of 1930s New Zealand, including the social norms, daily life, and the ways in which communities come together in times of crisis. This can broaden readers' cultural horizons and enhance their understanding of different periods and places.