The Great (Food) Bank Heist
What’s inside...
Written with great empathy and Rauf's trademark humour, The Great (Food) Bank Heist is a moving story that gives a child's-eye view of the increasing problem of food poverty. On Thursdays, Nelson, Ashley and Mum head out to the bank. But not just any old bank - the food bank. With its shining tins and packets of food stacked from floor to ceiling, Nelson thinks it's the best kind of bank there is. But there's a thief in town, and the shelves of the food bank are getting emptier each day, leaving people hungrier than ever. For the sake of his family and everyone else's, Nelson needs to make them stop. But can he and his friends really be the ones to catch the bank robber?
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
104 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the characters in the story show kindness and teamwork?
Why do you think the food bank is important in the story?
How would you feel if you were in the same situation as the characters?
What are some ways we can help people in our community like the characters did?
What did you learn about friendship and helping others from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child what they know about food banks and their purpose.
While reading, pause at key moments to discuss the characters' emotions and choices, relating them to real-life scenarios.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to draw or write about their favorite part and explain why it stood out to them.
Suggest role-playing a scene from the book where characters help each other, fostering empathy and understanding.
Connect the story to current events or community efforts that involve helping others, emphasizing the relevance of the book's themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy and compassion.
Explanation: In 'The Great (Food) Bank Heist,' characters work together to help others in need, demonstrating empathy and understanding towards people from different backgrounds and situations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize when someone needs help in their community or school and understand that their actions, no matter how small, can make a positive difference.
Example Lesson: Understanding community support systems.
Explanation: The story presents a food bank, explaining its role in helping those who are less fortunate. It portrays how communities create systems to support each other.
Real-World Application: Children can learn about various community support mechanisms and may be encouraged to participate in or initiate community support activities, such as food drives or charity events at school.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration.
Explanation: The plot revolves around a group of children and their community members who come together to achieve a common goal, illustrating the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to work collaboratively in group settings whether in academic projects, sports, or family activities, promoting a cooperative spirit.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills.
Explanation: As the characters in the book face challenges in their quest to help the food bank, they come up with creative solutions to overcome obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply critical thinking and creativity to solve problems they encounter in daily life, enhancing their adaptability and resilience.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity.
Explanation: The book includes a diverse range of characters, each with their own unique backgrounds and stories, teaching children about the value of inclusivity and acceptance.
Real-World Application: This lesson prepares children to embrace and celebrate diversity in their own communities, fostering an environment of respect and unity.