Magical History Tour Vol. 5: The Plague: The Plague (5)
#5 in Magical History Tour Series
What’s inside...
Modern day kids Annie and Nico go on a magical history tour to explore some of the worst infectious diseases of all time. They learn about history's most notorious pandemics, including the plague which has caused the loss of millions and has shaped the course of history. Together, they explore the ins and outs of these pandemics to better understand today's current health crisis. Join Annie and Nico as they guide you through this complicated topic in this pocket-sized book.
Discussion points
What were some ways people tried to protect themselves from the plague?
How did the community's response to the plague differ from how we handle diseases today?
Can you think of any positive changes that might have come about because of the difficulties during the plague?
What feelings might people have experienced during the plague, and how would you have felt in their place?
How do you think the spread of the plague influenced the way cities and communities are organized?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the discussion, briefly summarize the key points of the book to refresh your child’s memory.
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the historical period; ask them how they would have reacted to the events described.
Link the events in the book to current events or situations, making the historical context more relevant and understandable.
Praise your child’s responses and thoughts to build their confidence in expressing their views and ideas.
Use follow-up questions to delve deeper into your child’s thoughts, such as 'Why do you think that?' or 'Can you explain more?'
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the impact of diseases on history
Explanation: This book illustrates how the plague dramatically affected societies throughout history, shaping social, economic, and political landscapes.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this awareness to understand current global health issues, like the COVID-19 pandemic, and their significance in shaping modern society.
Example Lesson: Importance of hygiene and public health
Explanation: The story explores how lack of sanitation contributed to the spread of the plague, and how subsequent public health measures were instrumental in combating it.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of good hygiene habits and the role of public health policies in preventing diseases.
Example Lesson: Empathy and resilience during crises
Explanation: Through the narrative, children learn about the hardships people faced during the plague and how they coped, highlighting human resilience and empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to empathize with those affected by crises, understanding that resilience and community support are crucial during tough times.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking about historical sources
Explanation: The book encourages examining different perspectives and sources to understand a historical event comprehensively.
Real-World Application: This skill can be applied in their academic journey and beyond, helping children assess information critically and make informed decisions.
Example Lesson: Scientific inquiry and its evolution
Explanation: As the storyline covers the historical understanding of diseases, it shows how scientific thought and medical practices evolved over time.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate scientific progress and inspires curiosity about how scientific inquiry continues to solve modern problems.