Stay Where You Are and Then Leave
What’s inside...
The next work of historical fiction from the author of The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, John Boyne's Stay Where You Are and Then Leave is a touching look at the effects war has on a family. The day the First World War broke out, Alfie Summerfield's father promised he wouldn't go away to fight—but he broke that promise the following day. Four years later, Alfie doesn't know where his father might be, other than that he's away on a special, secret mission. Then, while shining shoes at King's Cross Station, Alfie unexpectedly sees his father's name on a sheaf of papers belonging to a military doctor. Bewildered and confused, Alfie realizes his father is in a hospital close by—a hospital treating soldiers with shell shock. Alfie isn't sure what shell shock is, but he is determined to rescue his father from this strange, unnerving place. This title has Common Core connections.
Age
9-12
Length
247 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Alfie Summerfield
Margie Summerfield
Georgie Summerfield
Joe Patience
Marian Bancroft
Discussion points
How do you think Alfie felt when his father went to war? Can you imagine how you would feel in a similar situation?
What does the title 'Stay Where You Are and Then Leave' tell us about Alfie’s journey in the story? What does it mean to you?
How do the characters in the book show bravery or courage? Can you think of a time when you had to be brave?
Why do you think it's important to listen to and understand other people's stories and experiences, as Alfie does in the book?
How did Alfie's experiences change his view of the world? How do you think challenging experiences can change a person?
Tip: Role play these questions
Allow your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the story without interruption. Show empathy and understanding to make them feel heard.
Relate the book’s themes to your child's life by discussing similar challenges or emotions they may have experienced.
Encourage your child to ask questions about the war and historical context of the book, providing answers that are age-appropriate and thoughtful.
Discuss the decisions made by various characters, prompting your child to consider what they might have done differently and why.
Highlight the importance of resilience and support in overcoming difficulties, tying it back to your child's personal growth and relationships.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the impacts of war
Explanation: Through the protagonist, Alfie, children see the harsh realities and emotional strains of World War I, impacting his family and community.
Real-World Application: Children learn empathy and historical awareness by understanding the consequences of global conflicts and the importance of peace.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: Alfie demonstrates perseverance as he navigates challenging circumstances to uncover the truth about his father's mysterious disappearance.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to stay determined and resilient in the face of personal challenges and uncertainties.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and trust
Explanation: The story emphasizes the strong bond between Alfie and his mother, highlighting how trust within the family is crucial during hard times.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of supporting family members and maintaining trust during difficult periods.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking
Explanation: Alfie's journey leads him to question the information given by adults and authorities, developing his critical thinking.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to think critically about the information they receive, encouraging them to seek truth and form their own informed opinions.
Example Lesson: Compassion in adversity
Explanation: Alfie encounters various characters affected differently by the war, showing him multiple perspectives and hardships.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children develop compassion and a deeper understanding of different human experiences, promoting kindness and empathy in their interactions.