The Wisdom of a Ahmad Shah: An Afghan Legend: English-Dari Edition (Teaching Stories)
#1 of 167 in Teaching Stories Series
What’s inside...
(Bilingual English-Dari edition) Some 250 years ago, the Great King Ahmad Shah Durrani ruled Afghanistan and, from there, a magnificent empire extending from eastern Iran to northern India, and from the Amu Darya River to the Indian Ocean. Known to his people as Ahmad Shah Baba (Ahmad Shah, our father), the beloved king was an outstanding general and a just and wise ruler. But he was vexed with all kinds of problems that threatened his kingdom, and he realized he needed to find someone with the right qualities to help him. The big question was how to find such a person. Among other things, this story provides a framework through which young readers can consider and discuss the qualities one needs in order to live a useful and happy life. This intriguing legend is retold for young people by the Afghan storyteller and teacher Palwasha Bazger Salam, and is beautifully illustrated by artist Natasha Delmar. Additional pages include a biography of Ahmad Shah, a map of the Durrani Empire and suggested discussion points.
Discussion points
What do you think makes Ahmad Shah wise in the stories?
How do the characters in the stories show bravery and kindness?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone like Ahmad Shah helps others?
What lessons do you think we can learn from Ahmad Shah's adventures?
How do you feel about the way the story is told in both English and Dari?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences with those of Ahmad Shah, promoting empathy and self-reflection.
Discuss the cultural aspects presented in the book to enhance your child’s understanding and appreciation of Afghan culture.
Use the bilingual English-Dari format as an opportunity to explore a new language together, making the reading session both educational and fun.
After reading, ask your child to imagine and share their own tale of adventure and wisdom, fostering creativity and narrative skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: The story exemplifies courage through the protagonist's ability to face challenges head-on, making tough decisions for the betterment of his people.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their fears, whether it be speaking in front of the class or trying out a new activity, thereby building their confidence and resilience.
Example Lesson: Wisdom in Leadership
Explanation: Ahmad Shah demonstrates wise leadership by listening to his advisors and considering the welfare of his subjects, showing that true leaders prioritize others' needs.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of listening, empathy, and putting others first, be it in school group projects or in family decisions.
Example Lesson: Respect for Cultural Diversity
Explanation: The bilingual English-Dari text introduces children to Afghan culture and language, emphasizing respect and appreciation for cultural differences.
Real-World Application: Children learn to embrace and respect people from different backgrounds they meet in school or in their community, fostering a more inclusive attitude.
Example Lesson: Importance of Storytelling
Explanation: The book uses traditional Afghan tales to convey its messages, highlighting how storytelling can be a powerful tool to pass down wisdom and values.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to share their own stories or family traditions, understanding the value of their personal and cultural narratives.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Abilities
Explanation: Throughout the story, Ahmad Shah encounters various problems that he solves through critical thinking and collaboration, underlining the significance of these skills.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to apply problem-solving skills in their academics and social interactions, enhancing their analytical abilities and teamwork.