Slammed by a Tsunami! (Disaster Survivors)
Disaster Survivors Series
on Goodreads (11)
What’s inside...
Slammed by a Tsunami! (Disaster Survivors) by Miriam Aronin is a gripping account of the devastating impact of tsunamis on human lives. The book provides a detailed exploration of several historic tsunami events, focusing on personal stories of survival and resilience. Through interviews and research, Aronin brings to life the harrowing experiences of those who faced the fury of one of nature's most powerful forces. The narrative not only describes the physical destruction caused by the tsunamis but also delves into the emotional and psychological effects on the survivors. The book aims to educate readers about the science behind tsunamis, the importance of disaster preparedness, and the strength of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity. On December 26, 2004, carpenter Ari Afrizal was helping build a house on the Indonesian island of Sumatra. Suddenly, he heard a loud whooshing sound and saw a wall of water heading directly toward him. The huge wave was a tsunami that destroyed the house he was working on and swept him out to sea. Alone in the ocean, Ari struggled to survive. Against all odds, would he live through this horrible ordeal? Eyewitness accounts and incredible photos bring to life the experiences of ordinary people who faced catastrophic danger---and lived to tell their stories. Kids will discover the causes and characteristics of tsunamis, and learn about scientific advances in warning systems. Safety tips show young readers what to do in case a tsunami occurs.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the people felt during the tsunami, and what would you have done in their situation?
What are some ways the community came together to help each other after the disaster?
Why is it important to learn about natural disasters like tsunamis?
What are some things you learned about being prepared for an emergency?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and relate it to their own experiences of overcoming challenges. Discuss the importance of community and teamwork in tough times, and highlight how knowledge and preparedness can make a big difference during emergencies. Use the book as a tool to introduce basic safety measures and emergency responses in an age-appropriate way, emphasizing that being informed is a way of being empowered.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The characters in 'Slammed by a Tsunami!' demonstrate resilience as they survive and adapt to the aftermath of a tsunami, showing courage and determination.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain resilient despite challenges or setbacks in their own lives, whether it's dealing with a tough day at school or overcoming a personal obstacle.
Example Lesson: Importance of preparedness
Explanation: The book illustrates how prior knowledge and preparation can mitigate the effects of natural disasters, emphasizing the characters' use of safety drills and emergency kits.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to understand the value of being prepared for emergencies, such as knowing evacuation routes or having emergency contacts.
Example Lesson: Empathy and community support
Explanation: As the community in the story comes together to support each other after the tsunami, the narrative fosters a sense of empathy and the importance of helping others in crisis.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to support and empathize with their peers and community members, enhancing social bonds and communal resilience.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness
Explanation: The story discusses the causes of tsunamis and their impact on both human and natural environments, raising awareness of environmental issues.
Real-World Application: This can help children become more conscious of their environment and the role they play in protecting it, potentially sparking interest in environmental conservation.