Earthquake in Haiti (Code Red)
Code Red Series
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
Describes the devastating earthquake that occurred in Haiti on January 12, 2010. This book provides an account of the disaster and its aftermath, including first-person experiences, fund-raising efforts, and relief work. It highlights the resilience and solidarity displayed by individuals and communities in response to one of the most catastrophic events in history. The narrative includes the story of a young man named Wismond, who was trapped under rubble for nearly 11 days, and details the international aid efforts that helped save him and many others.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the people in Haiti felt during and after the earthquake?
What are some ways the community came together to help each other?
Why is it important to have emergency plans during natural disasters?
What would you pack in an emergency kit after learning about the earthquake in Haiti?
How can we help people who are affected by natural disasters from our own home?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and relate it to their own experiences with helping others. Use the book as an opportunity to teach empathy and the importance of community support. Discuss the resilience of people and the importance of preparedness in the face of natural disasters. Offer reassurance by explaining how various organizations and communities work together to rebuild after such events. Consider exploring more about Haiti’s culture and geography to provide additional context to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: The book portrays the struggles and challenges faced by the people during the Haiti earthquake, allowing young readers to understand and empathize with those in distressing situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize emotions and circumstances of others around them, helping them to be more understanding and supportive in real-life situations.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: The characters in the book demonstrate resilience and determination in the face of disaster, providing a model of how to cope during tough times.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding of resilience to overcoming their own challenges, such as adapting to new environments or coping with personal setbacks.
Example Lesson: Importance of Community and Cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the crisis depicted in the book, the importance of community support and working together is evident, showcasing how collective effort can lead to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of cooperation and community involvement, encouraging them to participate in group activities and contribute to team efforts in school or among friends.
Example Lesson: Awareness of Global Issues
Explanation: The book raises awareness about the impact of natural disasters in different parts of the world, educating children about global issues and geographic diversity.
Real-World Application: Children can become more globally aware and informed, fostering a sense of global citizenship and understanding of different cultures and environments.