When the Rains Come
on Goodreads (17)
What’s inside...
When the Rains Come is a lively story for children that highlights some of the challenges facing Malawi and how they are being met, simultaneously drawing on the folk tales of the country. It will be a response from the writer and illustrator to the situation in Malawi with the aim of raising money for MUMs' work and raising awareness among children and adults everywhere. A mélange of a Malawi folk tale and the true story of three children who must be looked after by their grandmother, this book highlights some of the challenges facing the African country and demonstrates how those challenges are being handled. Filled with joy, color, and laughter, it showcases the work of the Malawi Underprivileged Mothers charity in the hopes of raising awareness to their cause.
Discussion points
What do you think Malini felt when she faced the flood? How would you have felt in her place?
Why is Malini's role in the story important for her village?
How do the villagers work together to face challenges? Can you think of a time when you worked with others to solve a problem?
What did you learn about the culture and environment of Malini's village that was different from where you live?
How does the story show the importance of bravery and helping others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Emphasize the cultural aspects of the story, highlighting the unique setting and traditions described. Comparing and contrasting your child’s daily environment with Malini’s can provide a broader worldview.
Discuss the concept of community and teamwork in the story. Relate it to your child’s experiences at school or in the neighborhood to make it personally relevant.
Encourage your child to share their feelings about the challenges Malini faces. Connect her courage and resourcefulness to moments when your child had to overcome obstacles, making the discussion personal and impactful.
Point out the illustrations that depict the changing weather and ask your child how each picture makes them feel. This can lead to a deeper understanding of the story's mood and themes.
Praise your child’s responses and insights to boost their confidence in expressing their thoughts and opinions about the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: In 'When the Rains Come', the protagonist faces numerous challenges as the heavy rains disrupt their daily life. Through perseverance and courage, they manage to overcome these hurdles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face difficult situations in their own lives with determination and can understand that obstacles can be overcome with the right attitude.
Example Lesson: Community Support
Explanation: The story highlights how the villagers come together to help each other during the challenging times brought by the relentless rains. This collective effort helps them mitigate the effects of the floods.
Real-World Application: Children can understand the importance of helping others in their community and how teamwork can lead to achieving common goals, especially in times of need.
Example Lesson: Importance of Preparedness
Explanation: Through the narrative, children see how the characters prepare for the rainy season. This preparation plays a crucial role in how they manage through the adversities they face.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of planning ahead and being prepared for various situations, instilling a sense of responsibility towards handling future uncertainties.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to Change
Explanation: As the rains alter the normal flow of life, characters in the book learn to adapt to their new circumstances, finding alternative ways to carry on with their daily activities.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of being flexible and adapting to changes, a skill that is valuable both in childhood and later in life.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The story emphasizes how the rains, while challenging, are a natural and essential part of the ecosystem, reminding the community of nature's power and necessity.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to develop respect for the environment, understand the interdependence between humans and nature, and foster responsible behaviors towards natural resources.