A Boy from Baghdad
on Goodreads (23)
What’s inside...
It's 1951 and twelve-year-old Salman Shasha is a happy Iraqi Jewish boy living in Baghdad. However, as the political climate turns against his community, his family is forced to flee to Israel. Once there, they are placed in a refugee camp and face discrimination from the dominant Ashkenazi Jews. Despite the challenges, Salman focuses on his passion for swimming and learns that perseverance, hard work, and determination can help him overcome adversity. A Boy From Baghdad is a moving tale about overcoming hardships and embracing diversity, making it essential reading for children aged 8 and above.
Age
8-12
Length
192 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the experiences of the boy from Baghdad change his perspective on friendship and family?
What similarities and differences do you notice between your life and the boy’s life in Baghdad?
How do you think the boy felt when he faced challenges, and how would you feel in a similar situation?
Why is it important to learn about and understand different cultures through stories like 'A Boy from Baghdad'?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your thoughts on the book and your favorite parts. Ask open-ended questions and give your child time to think about their answers. Relate parts of the story to your child’s personal experiences to make the conversation more relevant. Encourage empathy by discussing how the boy’s feelings and reactions might be similar to or different from their own. Highlight the importance of diversity and understanding different cultures.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through the protagonist's journey from Baghdad to a new country, readers explore themes of displacement and cultural differences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and embrace differences in peers, helping to cultivate a more inclusive and supportive environment in their communities.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Challenges
Explanation: The main character encounters various obstacles and learns to navigate them with courage and determination.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of perseverance and adaptability when faced with their own challenges, whether it's at school or in personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family and Friendship
Explanation: As the protagonist builds relationships in a new place, the story highlights the supportive roles that friends and family play.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value, build, and maintain strong relationships, recognizing the strength and love these bonds bring.
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness and Appreciation
Explanation: The narrative provides insights into the Iraqi culture and the adjustments the protagonist has to make in a new cultural setting.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore and learn about different cultures, promoting a deeper global awareness and interpersonal empathy.
Example Lesson: Adapting to Change
Explanation: Throughout the book, the character experiences significant changes, learning to adapt in order to thrive.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the invaluable skill of adaptability, helping them to successfully maneuver through life's ever-changing circumstances.