Roses for Gita
#2 in Gita Series
What’s inside...
In 'Roses for Gita' by Rachna Gilmore, we follow the story of a young girl named Gita who has recently moved from India to a cold, northern country. Struggling to adjust to her new life and missing her home, Gita finds solace in gardening, a passion she shared with her grandmother back in India. Despite the unfamiliar climate and soil, she is determined to grow roses as beautiful as the ones she left behind. The book explores themes of cultural adaptation, the importance of perseverance, and the connection between generations. Gita's journey is one of personal growth as she learns to blend her old traditions with her new environment, ultimately finding beauty and a sense of belonging in her new home. When she hears her grouchy elderly neighbor playing his fiddle in his garden one morning, Gita decides to try to make friends. Despite their apparent differences, the old man and the young girl discover that their shared love of music and growing things can overcome their differences and help them form a bond.
Discussion points
What do you think Gita feels when she tries to grow roses in her new home?
How do Gita's neighbors help her with her garden, and why do you think they do that?
How do the roses at the end of the story make Gita feel about her new environment?
What does this story teach us about friendship and community?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about times they have felt like Gita, moving to a new place or trying something unfamiliar.
Draw parallels between the communities in your child's life and Gita’s neighbors. Ask them about people who have helped them in similar ways.
Discuss the importance of persistence and patience, as seen in Gita’s efforts to grow her garden despite initial challenges.
After reading, consider planting a flower or a small plant with your child to bring the theme of growth and nurturing to life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Cultural Diversity
Explanation: Gita, a young girl new to a country, attempts to plant a garden reminiscent of her home, showcasing the beauty of maintaining one's cultural roots while adapting to new environments.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect diverse cultures they encounter in school and their community, understanding that everyone has unique traditions that enrich our lives.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in the Face of Challenges
Explanation: The story captures Gita's struggles and her determination to have a blooming garden, despite the initial failures and challenges she faces.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of persistence and trying again, even when faced with difficulties in tasks such as school projects or learning new skills.
Example Lesson: Importance of Community Support
Explanation: Gita receives help and advice from a neighbor, emphasizing the importance of community and collaborative support.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to seek help when needed and understand the value of supporting others, whether in group studies or community activities.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Gita's journey in the story illustrates her ability to adapt to a new environment and find solace and expression through gardening, despite missing her home.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to find constructive outlets for their emotions and adapt to changes like moving to a new place or school.
Example Lesson: Appreciating Nature
Explanation: Through Gita’s engagement with gardening, the story promotes a connection with and appreciation for nature.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to engage in environmental activities such as planting, recycling, and conservation, fostering a sense of responsibility towards the Earth.