Faraway Home
What’s inside...
As her father prepares for a trip back to his childhood home in Ethiopia, Desta begins to worry about where her father truly belongs--in the village of his youth or in America with her. She wonders about his experiences growing up in Ethiopia and if his love for his family will be enough to bridge the two worlds and bring him back to her. The story is a powerful portrayal of a contemporary American immigrant family, illustrated by a Coretta Scott King Honor-winning artist, and highlights a heartwarming father-daughter relationship. It has also been selected by the Junior Library Guild.
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the characters' journey to a new place make you feel?
What do you think the message of 'Faraway Home' is about?
Can you think of a time when you felt like you were in a new or unfamiliar place? How did you cope?
What similarities and differences do you notice between your life and the characters in the book?
If you could ask the characters one question, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
To encourage meaningful conversations, relate the themes of the book to your child's experiences. Share personal stories of times you've faced changes or challenges, to make connections more tangible. Use follow-up questions to delve deeper into your child’s thoughts and feelings. It's also beneficial to express empathy and understanding, showing that it's okay to have mixed emotions about new experiences, just like the characters in 'Faraway Home'.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: In 'Faraway Home', the protagonist learns to understand and empathize with characters from different backgrounds.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to appreciate and respect the diverse cultures and backgrounds of their classmates and peers.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: The story showcases the main character overcoming various obstacles throughout their journey, teaching resilience.
Real-World Application: Kids can use this lesson to navigate their own challenges, whether in school or in their personal lives, by staying determined and focused.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and home
Explanation: E.B. Lewis highlights the significance of family support and the concept of home as a safe haven in the narrative.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children value and seek support from their family during times of trouble or uncertainty.
Example Lesson: Courage to explore new things
Explanation: The characters in 'Faraway Home' often venture into new situations bravely, despite uncertainties.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace new experiences, whether trying out a new sport, making new friends, or learning a new skill.