Sun on the Stubble
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Sun on the Stubble, written by Colin Thiele, is a novel that follows the life of a young boy named Bruno Gunther, a German immigrant living in rural Australia during the 1930s. The story captures the challenges and adventures of Bruno and his family as they work their wheat and barley farm in the harsh Australian landscape. Through a series of vignettes, the book explores themes of family, community, hardship, and the joys and sorrows of growing up. Bruno's experiences range from attending school and dealing with bullies to helping with the harvest and confronting the dangers of bushfires. The novel is a poignant reflection on the simplicity and complexity of rural life, the bonds of family, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Age
0-3
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Bruno Gunther
Mr. Gunther
Discussion points
How do you think Bruno felt when he moved from the city to the country? Have you ever experienced a big change like that?
What are some of the challenges Bruno faces in the story, and how does he overcome them?
In the book, there are many family dynamics displayed. Which relationship did you find most interesting and why?
The setting plays a significant role in 'Sun on the Stubble'. How does the Australian landscape impact the characters and the story?
What lessons do you think we can learn from Bruno's adventures and misadventures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the book’s themes, such as resilience through change or the strength of family bonds, which could help open up a thoughtful dialogue. Encourage your child to express their opinions and feelings about the story and relate them to their own experiences. Validate their thoughts to foster a comfortable environment for deeper discussion. Use the setting and time period of the book to explore different cultural or historical perspectives together. Highlight the moral lessons in the story to instill values.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist, Bruno, consistently faces challenges on the farm and in his family life, yet he always finds ways to persevere and maintain a positive outlook.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stay strong and keep a positive attitude when they encounter obstacles in school or in personal relationships.
Example Lesson: Value of hard work
Explanation: Throughout the book, the importance of diligence and hard work is highlighted through the daily tasks and responsibilities shouldered by Bruno and his family on the farm.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children the importance of contributing to household chores or putting effort into their academic and extracurricular activities.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community
Explanation: The book underscores the strength and support that family and community provide to Bruno, illustrating how collaboration and mutual support are key to overcoming difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and rely on the support system provided by their family and friends, understanding the value of working together and supporting one another.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The connection of the family to the land and their care for the environment is a recurring theme in 'Sun on the Stubble', reflecting a deep respect for nature.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to develop a respect for their natural surroundings and understand the importance of environmental conservation in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of change
Explanation: As the story unfolds, Bruno learns to accept and adapt to the changes within his family and the wider community, showing that change can lead to personal growth and new opportunities.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that change is a part of life and adapting to it can lead to new and exciting experiences.