Nisha's War
What’s inside...
From acclaimed author Dan Smith comes a page-turning, atmospheric ghost story packed full of adventure and heart. Set in 1942 Malaya, the story follows Nisha and her mother, Amma, as they flee their war-ravaged home to seek refuge in her father's ancestral house in England, perched on a cliff top in the cold Northern region. When Amma falls gravely ill, Nisha is left to face her formidable grandmother alone. Grandmother's rules are countless, and her Anglo-Indian granddaughter is even forbidden from climbing the old weeping tree. However, when a ghost child beckons Nisha to sit under its boughs, and promises her Amma's life in return for three truths, its pull proves irresistible.
Age
9-13
Length
368 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Nisha
Jamie
Etta
Discussion points
How did Nisha's journey during the war make you feel, and why do you think her experiences were important?
What lessons do you think we can learn about courage and resilience from Nisha?
How do the relationships Nisha forms with others throughout the story influence her actions and decisions?
What role do you think hope plays in the book, especially considering Nisha's challenges?
If you were Nisha, what would you have done differently in the story, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
To foster a deeper connection with the themes of 'Nisha's War', encourage your child to express their own feelings and thoughts as they relate to Nisha's experiences. Highlight the parallels between historical events and the moral lessons they impart, ensuring discussions link back to personal values and resilience. Encourage them to consider different perspectives and the importance of decision-making in challenging times. Use comparisons to their own life to make the discussion more relatable and impactful.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of resilience
Explanation: In 'Nisha's War', Nisha demonstrates resilience as she navigates the challenges of her new life away from home during the war. Her courage in facing unfamiliar situations and overcoming obstacles is a central theme.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace challenges with a positive attitude and understand that they can overcome difficulties with determination and resilience.
Example Lesson: Understanding and valuing different cultures
Explanation: As Nisha interacts with people from different backgrounds, the book showcases the richness of diverse cultures and the importance of respecting them.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be open to learning about and respecting different cultural backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and empathy in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: The power of friendship
Explanation: The friendships Nisha forms in the story help her navigate her new environment and bring comfort during tough times, highlighting the importance of supportive relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to build and maintain meaningful relationships, understanding that friendship can provide emotional support and help in overcoming personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Courage to confront the past
Explanation: Nisha's journey in dealing with her past is a crucial aspect of the story, teaching children that facing and accepting past events is essential for personal growth.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of confronting and learning from past experiences to foster personal growth and emotional healing.
Example Lesson: Hope and optimism in adverse situations
Explanation: Despite the war and personal losses, Nisha remains hopeful and optimistic about the future, which is a powerful message throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain hopeful and maintain a positive outlook even in difficult times, which can improve their overall resilience and ability to cope with adversity.