The Colour of Home
What’s inside...
Hassan feels out of place in a new cold, grey country. At school, he paints a picture showing his colourful Somalian home, covered with the harsh colours of war from which his family has fled. He tells his teacher about their voyage from Mogadishu to Mombasa, then to the refugee camp and on to England. But gradually things change. When Hassan's parents put up his next picture on the wall, Hassan notices the maroon prayer mat, a bright green cushion and his sister Naima's pink dress - the new colours of home. With the help of his mother, the encouragement of his new teacher, and a bit of time to adjust to his new surroundings, Hassan learns to appreciate his new home in America while still remembering and acknowledging his native land of Somalia.
Age
2-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Hassan
Ms. Kelly
Discussion points
How do you think Hassan feels when he moves to a new place? Can you relate to his feelings?
What importance do colors have in the story? Which color do you think represents Hassan's feelings the best?
Why do you think Hassan chooses to paint his old home and new home in his art class?
How does Hassan's mood change throughout the book, and what events influence these changes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about times they have experienced significant changes, drawing parallels with Hassan’s experiences to deepen their understanding.
Discuss the symbolism of different colors in the book, asking your child to think about what each color makes them feel and why.
Highlight the supportive characters in the story, emphasizing how kindness and friendship can help someone adapt to a new environment.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Cultural Diversity
Explanation: The story follows Hassan, a young boy who has moved from Somalia to England, struggling with adapting to a new culture and missing his homeland. Through his journey, children learn about different cultures and the importance of acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing curiosity and kindness towards classmates from different backgrounds, helping to create a more inclusive environment at school.
Example Lesson: Expressing Emotions Through Art
Explanation: Hassan uses painting to express his feelings about his past in Somalia and his new life in England. This illustrates the power of art as a form of emotional expression.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to use drawing, painting, or any form of art to communicate their feelings, especially when they find it hard to express them verbally.
Example Lesson: Coping with Change
Explanation: Hassan's story is one of significant change, dealing with a new school, language, and home. The book shows how he gradually finds comfort in his new surroundings, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.
Real-World Application: This lesson is vital for children experiencing any change, whether it's moving to a new place, changing schools, or other significant transitions. They can learn to adapt and find joy in new beginnings.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Empathy
Explanation: As the story progresses, classmates and teachers start to understand Hassan’s background and the challenges he has faced, which fosters a sense of empathy in them.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more empathetic towards others who may appear different or who are facing challenges, fostering a supportive and understanding community.
Example Lesson: Finding Strength in Memories
Explanation: Hassan treasures the happier memories of his homeland which provide him comfort. This shows the importance of remembering and cherishing positive moments even in times of distress.
Real-World Application: Children can be taught to recall and cherish happy memories, especially in challenging times, as a way to find comfort and strength.