Where Are You From?
What’s inside...
This resonant and award-winning picture book tells the story of one girl who constantly gets asked a simple question that doesn’t have a simple answer. When she turns to her abuelo for the answer, it becomes a great conversation starter in the home or classroom—a book to share, in the spirit of understanding and inclusiveness.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
34 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it means to be asked 'Where are you from?'
How do you feel about your own heritage and the place you come from?
Why do you think it's important to know about different cultures and backgrounds?
How did the character in the book feel when people asked about her background?
What can we learn from people who come from different places?
Tip: Role play these questions
Prior to reading, share your own family heritage with your child to make the connection more personal.
Encourage your child to reflect on and share their feelings after each part of the story.
Highlight the beauty of diversity and why understanding different cultures is important.
Ask your child to draw or describe a picture of their own 'place'—this could be a cultural or family symbol.
Relate the discussions back to the child's school or community experiences regarding diversity and inclusion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Identity and self-confidence
Explanation: In 'Where Are You From?', the protagonist confronts questions about her heritage, prompting a journey of self-discovery and affirmation of her identity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace their own heritage and be proud of their unique backgrounds, boosting their self-esteem and confidence in social settings.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of diversity
Explanation: The book celebrates various cultures and backgrounds, teaching children to appreciate and respect differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand and value diverse perspectives and backgrounds in their classrooms and communities, fostering inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Importance of family
Explanation: The protagonist's quest for identity is guided by stories and memories shared by her grandparents, emphasizing the importance of family in understanding one’s roots.
Real-World Application: Children learn to cherish their familial ties and understand the role of family in shaping their values and beliefs.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and asking questions
Explanation: The young girl’s curiosity about her origin encourages her to ask questions and engage in meaningful conversations with her family members.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be inquisitive about their own origins and communicate openly with family members, aiding their cognitive and emotional development.