Zamzam’s Faith in the Middle: A True Story for Children
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
This true story, 'Faith in the Middle' is Ms. Holwerda's account, from a 4 1/2-year-old's perspective, of her family's 1941 experience and its impact on her life. What was to have been an ordinary ocean voyage turned disastrous. Her words vividly capture her Mother's remarkable courage and faith which buoyed her with extra strength to survive the traumatic ordeal. Ms. Holwerda was traveling with her five brothers and sisters and Mother aboard the ZAMZAM. They were en route to Africa to join their Father who was already serving as a missionary there. Expectations were for a safe and happy trip. Early in the morning of April 17, 1941, the ZAMZAM was attacked by a German Raider. With shells whizzing overhead and exploding into the ship, the children awakened to a nightmare. Their Mother's prayers and unwavering reminder that 'Jesus loves you,' calmed them as they abandoned ship, climbed into their lifeboat, and were lowered to the ocean below. However, nothing could prepare them for the adventure ahead, and the emotions of a very frightened little girl come alive through this story. 'Faith in the Middle' not only covers their miraculous survival but also the grief and anguish of her Father as he hears the news that the ZAMZAM is lost with his entire family aboard. Adults, as well as children, will find it hard to put down this book once they pick it up.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-12
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think helped Zamzam stay strong and hopeful during her challenges?
How do you think Zamzam felt when she was in the middle of her journey? Can you relate to her feelings?
What are some ways that Zamzam's faith influenced her decisions and actions in the story?
Why do you think it's important to have faith or belief, especially during tough times?
How can we apply Zamzam’s lessons in our daily lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Zamzam's experiences. Validate their feelings and draw parallels to their own life challenges. Use the book's themes to discuss the importance of resilience and belief. Highlight how faith can provide comfort and guide us through difficult times, making the conversation applicable to personal experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: Zamzam faces various challenges throughout the book, showing courage and determination despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain positive and persistent when they face their own challenges, whether at school or in their social lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of faith
Explanation: The protagonist, Zamzam, relies on her faith to navigate tough situations, illustrating how faith can provide strength and guidance.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore and hold onto their personal beliefs or family traditions as a source of comfort and direction.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others
Explanation: Through interactions with diverse characters, Zamzam learns to understand and share the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to be more considerate and understanding towards their peers and adults.
Example Lesson: Value of education
Explanation: Zamzam's journey highlights how education is a crucial tool for personal growth and overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to appreciate and take their schooling seriously as a means to bettering their future.
Example Lesson: Community support
Explanation: Throughout the story, the community plays a vital role in supporting Zamzam, showcasing the power of collective help and unity.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of participating in community activities and supporting those around them.