The Shack that Dad Built
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
When Elaine Russell was five, her dad built the family a shack just outside the Aboriginal mission at La Perouse in Sydney. In The Shack that Dad Built, Elaine illustrates what life was like for an indigenous kid on the urban fringes. Her recollections range from the happy memories of hide-and-seek in the sand dunes and hunting for bush tucker to more bittersweet memories, such as her 'Saddest Christmas Ever' when the charity responsible for distributing presents to the local Aboriginal kids ran out of toys just as Elaine reached the head of the queue. Elaine’s colorful, painterly illustrations vividly recreate these childhood experiences.
Discussion points
What did you like best about the shack that Dad built?
How do you think the family felt when they spent time in the shack?
What would you add to your own dream shack and why?
How do you think working together helped the family in the story?
How do you feel when we work on projects together as a family?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story by asking open-ended questions. Relate the story to your child's experiences by discussing any family projects or teamwork activities. You can also inspire creativity by asking them to describe or draw their ideal shack. Lastly, emphasize the value of working together and spending family time, just like the characters in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of hard work
Explanation: The story demonstrates how the father invests time and effort into building a shack, showcasing dedication and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take pride in their own projects and efforts, understanding that hard work leads to tangible outcomes.
Example Lesson: Importance of family bonding
Explanation: Through the collaborative effort of building the shack, the story highlights the strengthening of family ties and shared experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in family projects or activities, fostering a sense of belonging and teamwork.
Example Lesson: Creativity and resourcefulness
Explanation: The father uses various materials and creative solutions during the construction of the shack, demonstrating innovation.
Real-World Application: Children can apply creativity in solving everyday problems or in their play, using available resources in inventive ways.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for simple pleasures
Explanation: The enjoyment derived from the simple shack underscores the notion that happiness doesn’t require complex or expensive items.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to find joy in simple activities and appreciate what they have, rather than longing for more.
Example Lesson: Connection to nature
Explanation: The shack, being built outdoors and involving natural materials, promotes an appreciation and respect for the natural environment.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore outdoor environments, engaging with nature through play and learning about environmental conservation.