War Boy: A Country Childhood
What’s inside...
A special new edition of Michael Foreman's award-winning memoirs about his wartime childhood, 'War Boy' is a modern classic that vividly brings to life the experiences of a young boy growing up during World War II. From narrowly escaping a bomb in his bedroom to playing in bombed-out ruins, Foreman shares personal stories filled with childhood memories. Known for his extensive work in children's literature, Foreman's storytelling is complemented by his acclaimed illustrations, making this book a compelling read for both children and adults.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What differences do you notice between your life and the life of the boy in the book?
How do you think the boy felt during the war, and can you relate to any of his emotions?
What parts of the boy’s daily life during wartime surprised you the most?
Why do you think friendship and community were important in the story?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in today's world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a gentle tone to discuss sensitive topics like war, emphasizing the resilience and hope displayed in the book.
Connect the story to current events or personal family history where relevant, to make the content more relatable.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book through drawing or writing their own short story.
Ask your child to ponder what they would do in the boy’s situation to foster empathy and critical thinking.
Highlight the importance of community and teamwork as demonstrated in the book, and relate it to the child’s experiences with friends or family.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Throughout 'War Boy: A Country Childhood,' the protagonist, Michael, demonstrates resilience as he navigates the challenges of growing up during World War II.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to adapt to changing circumstances and overcome difficulties, whether tackling a tough school project or managing everyday conflicts.
Example Lesson: The value of creativity
Explanation: Michael uses his imagination to escape and cope with the harsh realities of war, showcasing how creativity can provide solace and joy.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their imagination in play or in problem-solving scenarios, fostering creativity that can benefit academic and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical events
Explanation: The book provides a personal perspective on the impacts of World War II on everyday life, helping children understand significant historical events through a relatable protagonist.
Real-World Application: Helps children grasp the importance of history and learn empathy and understanding for those who lived through different times.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: Michael’s interactions with others in a time of crisis highlight the importance of being kind and supporting one another.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to recognize situations where they can offer support, understanding, or companionship, fostering a more empathetic outlook.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for peace
Explanation: By contrasting childhood innocence with the backdrop of war, the story gives insights into the value of peace and stability.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to cherish and contribute to a peaceful environment in their communities and beyond.