Song of the River
on Goodreads (87)
What’s inside...
Times are tough for Cari and her mum. A violent storm has flooded the valley where they live, destroying their home and cafe business. Things seem bleak - but hope appears in the form of a plan to reintroduce beavers into the area, as the changes that these amazing animals make to the waterways might prevent another flood. Cari knows that she has to get involved. But with the project facing resistance from locals, can she convince them to give the beavers a chance – and will it be enough to save her home from being destroyed for a second time?
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-8
Length
104 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Cam feel when he discovered the river's path? What do you think this teaches us about exploring?
What changes did Cam observe in the river as it traveled from his home to the sea? What does this tell us about the natural world?
Why do you think the river's journey was important to the story? What symbolisms can we find in it?
How do the illustrations help tell the story of the river? Which picture was your favorite and why?
What can we learn from the different animals and characters Cam meets along the river?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that ask 'why' and 'how' to promote critical thinking and deeper understanding.
Relate the river's journey to personal experiences, such as a trip or a significant life event, to make the discussion more relatable.
Point out the rich illustrations and ask your child to describe what they see. This helps enhance observational skills and sparks imagination.
Discuss the emotions and challenges the protagonist faces to help your child understand and articulate their own feelings.
Encourage your child to imagine their own ending to the book or an alternate scenario. This fosters creativity and problem-solving skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The book illustrates the journey of a river from its source in the mountains to the sea, emphasizing the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of preserving natural habitats and the role each person plays in maintaining the health of the environment.
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist overcomes various obstacles along the river’s course, embodying resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to face challenges head-on and persevere through difficulties in their own lives.
Example Lesson: The power of curiosity
Explanation: The main character's quest is driven by curiosity about where the river leads, which leads to discovery and learning.
Real-World Application: Fosters a love for learning and exploring the unknown, teaching children to question and seek understanding about the world around them.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the journey, the protagonist encounters and collaborates with various creatures, highlighting teamwork.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to value friendships and work cooperatively with others to achieve common goals.
Example Lesson: Cycle of life
Explanation: The story touches on the river’s role in the life cycles within the ecosystem, teaching about life’s cyclic nature.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand and appreciate the natural cycles and transitions in life, promoting a holistic view of life and death.