When the Angels Left the Old Country
on Goodreads (3,499)
What’s inside...
A queer immigrant fairytale about individual purpose, the fluid nature of identity, and the power of love to change and endure. Uriel the angel and Little Ash, a demon, are the only supernatural creatures in their shtetl. The two have been studying together for centuries, but the search for a better life draws their village’s youth to America. When one emigrant goes missing, Uriel and Little Ash embark on a journey to find her. They encounter humans in need, face obstacles like medical exams, corrupt officials, and poverty, and discover the power of love and identity in a new land.
Age
12-18
Length
408 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Angel
Essie
Rose
Little Ash
Discussion points
What do you think the angels learned about humans during their journey? How do you think they felt?
How does the relationship between the angels change throughout the story, and what causes these changes?
Why do you believe the angels chose to leave the Old Country? Do you think it was a good decision?
How do the characters they meet on their journey change their understanding of right and wrong?
If you were one of the angels, what would you have done differently during the journey?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child to summarize the book in their own words, to ensure they grasp the storyline.
Encourage your child to compare and contrast the characters of the angels, promoting deeper understanding of their development.
Ask your child how they would feel and react in scenarios presented to the angels to foster empathy and critical thinking.
Discuss the moral dilemmas encountered in the story, and ask what your child would do in those situations to engage ethical thinking.
Relate the themes of the book back to your child's own experiences, which will help them apply the story’s messages to their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The journey of the angel and the demon in the story teaches children about the importance of understanding others' perspectives, even if they seem completely different from one's own.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing kindness and trying to understand where others are coming from, whether it’s in school or in play.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: The unlikely friendship between the angel and the demon showcases that friendship can transcend differences and offer companionship and support in challenging times.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to build friendships based upon mutual respect and support, beyond superficial similarities.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonists’ voyage is filled with challenges which they courageously confront, showing that bravery isn’t the absence of fear but rather the determination to overcome it.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand that it’s okay to feel scared and that courage is about facing fears and trying your best regardless of the outcome.