Happy Here: 10 Stories from Black British Authors & Illustrators
What’s inside...
With an introduction from bestselling author Sharna Jackson, HAPPY HERE is a collection that features stories and poems by 10 Black British authors for readers aged 7+. The book explores themes of joy, home, and family through a wide range of genres and styles. Each author has been paired with a different illustrator to spotlight Black British artistic talent. The collection includes contributions from Dean Atta, Joseph Coelho, Kereen Getten, Patrice Lawrence, Theresa Lola, E.L. Norry, Jasmine Richards, Alexandra Sheppard, Yomi Sode, and Clare Weze.
Age
6-7
Length
256 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you like about the stories in 'Happy Here'? Which story was your favorite and why?
How did the characters in the book overcome challenges or obstacles? Can you relate to any of their experiences?
What did you learn about friendship and kindness from these stories?
How do the illustrations add to the story? What emotions did the pictures evoke?
If you could meet any of the characters, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading each story, ask your child what they expect the story to be about based on the title and illustrations. This activates their imagination and prediction skills.
While reading, pause to discuss the actions and decisions of characters, asking your child how they might have reacted in similar situations.
Encourage your child to describe the settings and characters in their own words, enhancing their descriptive and vocabulary skills.
After finishing each story, relate the themes or lessons to your child’s own life experiences, which helps personalize the stories and reinforce the morals.
Promote creativity by asking your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book, or to write a short story inspired by what they read.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Diversity
Explanation: Through its collection of stories from Black British authors and illustrators, the book showcases a variety of cultural backgrounds, promoting understanding and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect peers from different backgrounds in their schools and communities.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Overcoming Challenges
Explanation: Characters in various stories encounter obstacles but find creative ways to overcome them, teaching problem-solving and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this mindset when facing their own challenges, whether academic or social, fostering a resilient attitude.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship and Collaboration
Explanation: Several tales highlight the value of working together and helping one another, reinforcing the importance of social bonds and teamwork.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to cooperate and work together in group settings like classrooms or sports teams, enhancing their interpersonal skills.
Example Lesson: Pride in One's Identity
Explanation: By showcasing Black British culture through its stories and illustrations, the book allows children to see and take pride in their own heritage.
Real-World Application: This lesson bolsters self-esteem and encourages children to share their own cultural experiences with others.
Example Lesson: Creative Expression
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore various forms of artistic expression in their hobbies and educational projects, fostering creativity.