Nina and the Travelling Spice Shed
Nina Series
on Goodreads (11)
What’s inside...
Nina is seriously grumpy. She has been assigned a school project that she doesn't want to do, and her parents keep praising India, a place she has never visited. A surprising discovery raises questions about her sweet aunty being a secret agent and her spice shed being a travel machine. Soon, Nina finds herself traveling in the shed without knowing her destination. She embarks on a wild adventure, encountering a short-tempered holy man, a charming street thief, a glamorous film star, and a fierce tiger.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What new spices did Nina discover in the spice shed and how do you think they influence the flavors of a dish?
Why do you think Nina was interested in traveling through the spice shed?
How did the different places Nina visited change her perspective on her own life?
Can you think of a time when you tried something new like Nina did, and how did that make you feel?
What is one place Nina visited that you would like to see, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the adventures in the book. Use the questions to guide a deeper understanding of cultural diversity and personal bravery. Compare Nina's experiences with your own family traditions or cooking experiences. Highlight the importance of curiosity and learning about the world.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: Nina's adventures in the magical spice shed enable her to explore and appreciate various cultures around the world.
Real-World Application: Children learn to respect and value diverse cultures and traditions, fostering a sense of global citizenship from a young age.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the story, Nina faces challenges that she must overcome using her wit and resources, which illustrates effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply problem-solving skills in their daily activities, whether in academic challenges or interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Nina shows courage by venturing into unknown places and facing various obstacles, demonstrating bravery.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to face their fears and step out of their comfort zones, whether trying new activities or standing up for themselves.
Example Lesson: Importance of Curiosity
Explanation: Nina’s journey begins with her curiosity about her aunt's spice shed, leading her to discover magical worlds.
Real-World Application: Stimulates children to ask questions and explore their surroundings, enhancing their learning and understanding of the world.