Saving Hanno: A Refugee Boy and His Dog
on Goodreads (87)
What’s inside...
Rudi is a nine-year-old Jewish boy who is sent from Germany to England on the Kindertransport train due to unsafe conditions in his home country. Unfortunately, he is unable to bring his beloved dog, Hanno, with him. However, through a stroke of luck, Hanno is smuggled into England and provides comfort to Rudi as he adjusts to life in a new country. As World War 2 approaches, a new threat emerges that endangers Hanno. Rudi and his new friends must come together to find a way to protect their pets. This story is inspired by the historical events of the Kindertransport and the experiences of refugee children who arrived in Britain before the war.
Age
6-7
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Rudi
Hanno
Lotte
Discussion points
How do you think Rudi felt when he had to leave Hanno behind? Can you share a time when you had to say goodbye to someone or something you love?
Why do you think Rudi was determined to save Hanno, despite the difficulties he faced?
How do the actions of different characters show the importance of kindness and bravery?
What can we learn from the story about helping others in tough situations?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to put themselves in Rudi's shoes and explore his emotions throughout the story.
Discuss the concept of resilience. Highlight how Rudi overcame challenges and ask your child to think of times when they have been resilient.
Link the story to current events or historical contexts about refugees to deepen the understanding of the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: In 'Saving Hanno,' the protagonist shows deep empathy and compassion towards his dog, Hanno, as they flee from Nazi Germany, highlighting the bond between them and the lengths one goes to ensure a loved one's safety.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the feelings of others and showing kindness in everyday situations, like being caring towards friends or pets.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The story demonstrates how the main character remains hopeful and resilient even when faced with the challenges of escaping danger and seeking a new life, providing a model of perseverance.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to stay optimistic and persist through their own challenges, whether they're dealing with a tough school assignment or adapting to big life changes.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and support systems
Explanation: Throughout their journey, the support from family members and newfound friends plays a crucial role in the protagonist's survival and adaptation to new environments.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to value and seek support from family and friends when facing difficulties, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Example Lesson: Understanding history through personal stories
Explanation: The book provides historical context about World War II and the refugee experience through the personal story of the boy and his dog, making it more relatable and comprehensible for young readers.
Real-World Application: Children can connect the historical events they learn in school to personal stories, enhancing their understanding and empathy towards people who lived through those times.