Home Is a Place Called Nowhere
on Goodreads (20)
What’s inside...
Amina was found by Auntie Vickie in a cardboard box on her doorstep and has lived with her ever since. She doesn't know who or where her parents are, and she feels misunderstood. When she is bullied by Vickie's son she can't stand it any longer, so she runs away. Squatting in an empty house, she makes friends with Paul, an older teenager. Paul tries to help her find out about her real mother and become reconciled with Auntie Vickie. But the young squatters face eviction and unwelcome attention from those opposed to asylum-seekers. Soon Amina is running again, even though she doesn't know where to run to. All she can cling to is her love of song and her hope that somewhere she will belong.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-15
Length
123 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the idea of 'home' in the book? What does 'home' mean to you?
How did the characters cope with feeling like they didn’t belong? Can you relate to their experiences?
Were there any moments in the story that made you feel hopeful? What were they?
What have you learned about different people and places from this book?
If you could help a friend feel more at home, what would you do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book without any interruptions. Validate their feelings and provide comfort if they express any emotional distress. Relate the themes of the book to your child's own experiences to foster a deeper connection. Lastly, keep the conversation light and enjoyable, focusing on the aspects of the story that resonated most with your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and accepting change
Explanation: The protagonist’s journey illustrates the inevitable shifts that occur in life, teaching children to adapt to new circumstances.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace changes such as moving to a new school or city, seeing them as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: Through the relationships formed during the story, children learn about loyalty, trust, and the support system friends can offer.
Real-World Application: This can encourage kids to build and maintain meaningful friendships in their own lives, understanding the importance of being a good friend.
Example Lesson: Importance of self-identity
Explanation: As the characters explore 'nowhere,' they also explore who they are which emphasizes the importance of self-discovery.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and be confident in their own identities, promoting a healthy self-esteem and individuality.
Example Lesson: Courage to face the unknown
Explanation: The protagonist's bravery in confronting unfamiliar situations serves as a role model for overcoming fears.
Real-World Application: Children learn that facing new challenges is a part of life, and having the courage to face them can lead to personal growth and new experiences.