Home at Last: Sofia's Immigrant Diary
#2 in Sofia'S Immigrant Diary Series
on Goodreads (189)
What’s inside...
In 1903, ten-year-old Sofia and her family start their new life in America, settling in the North End of Boston. Sofia's father works in a grocery, her mother sells pasta, and Sofia attends school while trying to maintain her friendship with her old friend Maureen. As Sofia and her family adjust to their new surroundings, she navigates the challenges of being a new American, from adapting to school and making new friends, to helping her family make ends meet. The story is accompanied by historical notes and is the second installment of Sofia's Ellis Island Diary. Kathryn Lasky brings readers the second installment of Sofia's Ellis Island Diary, depicting Sofia's move to the North End of Boston and her first steps as a new American. After her dramatic release from quarantine and reunion with her family, Sofia moves to the North End of Boston, where the Monaris start their new lives in their new country. While her parents struggle to make ends meet, Sofia must adjust to her American school, friends and job.
Discussion points
How do you think Sofia felt when she moved to a new country? Can you relate to any of her feelings?
What are some ways Sofia tried to make her new place feel like home?
Why is it important to be welcoming to new people we meet, like Sofia's classmates were to her?
How did Sofia's story change your thoughts about what being an immigrant might be like?
What would you have done to help Sofia feel more at home?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to imagine themselves in Sofia's shoes, discussing the challenges and opportunities of moving to a new place.
Highlight the importance of acceptance and kindness by discussing how each character interacts with Sofia.
Use the book as a starting point to discuss your family's own history and any experiences with moving or adjusting to new environments.
Encourage your child to share their thoughts and feelings about the book, validating their emotions and providing comfort or insights where needed.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The story of Sofia’s journey as an immigrant helps children understand the challenges faced by newcomers, encouraging an empathetic viewpoint.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding in school or social settings where they meet peers from diverse backgrounds, fostering inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Sofia's experiences demonstrate how she overcomes obstacles with perseverance, illustrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to tackle personal challenges, be it adapting to a new school or overcoming a difficult task, inspired by Sofia's resilience.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and roots
Explanation: Sofia’s story highlights her connection to her cultural roots and the support from her family, emphasizing the values of heritage and familial support.
Real-World Application: Children can appreciate and maintain connections with their own family traditions and values, helping to shape their identity and sense of belonging.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to new environments
Explanation: As Sofia adjusts to a new country, she learns to adapt, which is an important skill depicted throughout her story.
Real-World Application: This lesson aids children in becoming flexible and adaptable in changing circumstances, at school or in new activities.
Example Lesson: Courage to embrace new opportunities
Explanation: Sofia shows courage when embracing the new opportunities in her adopted country, despite the initial fear and uncertainty.
Real-World Application: Children learn to step out of their comfort zones and seize new opportunities that come their way, just like Sofia.