Soraya the Storyteller (Takeaways)
Takeaways Series
on Goodreads (102)
What’s inside...
Soraya is a storyteller from Afghanistan who uses stories to keep her memories alive as she starts a new life in Australia under a Temporary Protection Visa. Soraya, an 11-year-old asylum seeker, and her family settle in a South Australian town where she attends school for the first time. She works hard to potentially remain in Australia, making friends, including the 'possum man' in her street. She is haunted by the loss of her siblings and father, and the painful memories of their journey and time in a detention center. Her dreams are accompanied by an ebony horse that guides her through a land between remembering and forgetting.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
175 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Soraya
Discussion points
What do you think Soraya felt when she had to leave her home? How would you feel in her situation?
Soraya uses storytelling to connect with her new friends. Can you think of a time when a story helped you make a friend or feel better?
Why do you think it's important for Soraya to remember her culture and share it with others?
How do the different characters in the book react to Soraya's stories? What does this tell us about the power of sharing our experiences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book’s themes, such as cultural identity and resilience. Listen actively and validate their feelings to make them feel understood. Relate the book’s scenarios to personal experiences or current events to make the conversation more relatable and meaningful. Use the book as a starting point to discuss broader topics like diversity and acceptance.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Soraya's journey from Afghanistan to Australia provides children a glimpse into different cultures and the challenges faced by refugees. It emphasizes understanding and empathizing with others' experiences.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences and personal histories, promoting inclusiveness and understanding in their social interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Adaptability
Explanation: Throughout the story, Soraya demonstrates resilience by adapting to new environments and overcoming obstacles. This highlights the importance of perseverance and flexibility.
Real-World Application: This lesson equips children to handle change and adversity in their own lives, encouraging them to stay positive and persistent despite challenges.
Example Lesson: The Power of Storytelling
Explanation: Soraya uses her storytelling to connect with others and find her identity in a new country. This element of the book showcases how storytelling can be a powerful tool for expression and connection.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of sharing their own stories and experiences as a way to express themselves and build connections with others.
Example Lesson: Importance of Education
Explanation: Soraya’s pursuit of education, even in challenging circumstances, accentuates the importance of education in providing opportunities and empowering individuals.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value their education and seize learning opportunities to better themselves and their future prospects.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face the Unknown
Explanation: Soraya's courage in facing new challenges and unknowns in a foreign land is a central theme. This teaches the importance of courage in the face of uncertainty.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of facing fears and stepping out of their comfort zones to grow and learn.