Year of the Jungle
on Goodreads (1,014)
What’s inside...
Suzy spends her year in first grade waiting for her father, who is serving in Vietnam, and when the postcards stop coming she worries that he will never make it home. New York Times bestselling author Suzanne Collins has created a deeply moving autobiographical picture book about a father who must go off to the war in Vietnam -- and the daughter who stays behind.
Age
3-4
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Suzy
Suzy'S Mother
Discussion points
How do you think Suzy felt when her father was away? Can you think of a time you missed someone?
What are some ways Suzy coped with her father being in the jungle? Have you ever used similar strategies when you were worried?
Why is it important to share our feelings with others, like Suzy did with her mom?
How did Suzy’s understanding of the world change throughout the story?
What do you think is the main message of 'Year of the Jungle'? How does it apply to our lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening. Validate your child's feelings by acknowledging them before sharing your thoughts.
Connect the story to personal experiences. Discuss any similar experiences your child might have had and relate them to Suzy’s feelings and actions in the book.
Discuss the illustrations and ask how they think the pictures help tell Suzy's story. This can help them understand the narrative better and express themselves visually.
Encourage critical thinking by asking your child what they would do in Suzy's situation and why.
Acknowledge tough topics. If questions about war or absence come up, provide age-appropriate responses that comfort and inform.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Emotions
Explanation: In 'Year of the Jungle,' the young protagonist, Suzy, navigates her feelings of confusion and worry when her father goes to war. The story portrays her emotional journey, helping children understand and name their feelings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to express their own emotions more clearly and seek support when dealing with difficult situations, such as the absence of a loved one.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: As Suzy shares her fears and feelings, readers learn to empathize with her situation. The book encourages understanding from the perspective of someone else’s experiences.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to show more empathy and compassion towards friends or classmates who might be going through challenging times.
Example Lesson: Coping with Change
Explanation: The book deals with changes in Suzy’s life due to her father's absence. It shows her learning to adapt to a new normal, which is a critical life skill.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that change is a part of life and that resilience and adaptation are key to overcoming new challenges.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Support
Explanation: Throughout the book, Suzy’s family plays a crucial role in helping her cope with her father’s absence. It highlights the importance of family in providing emotional support and stability.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and rely on family support during tough times, understanding the value of close familial bonds.
Example Lesson: Time as a Healer
Explanation: The narrative shows that over time, Suzy starts to feel better and understand her father’s situation better. It teaches children that time can help heal emotional wounds.
Real-World Application: This can help children grasp the concept of patience and the natural progression of healing after emotional setbacks or sadness.