A Hen in the Wardrobe
#1 in Cinnamon Grove Series
on Goodreads (30)
What’s inside...
Ramzi's dad is acting very strangely due to sleepwalking caused by homesickness for his native Algeria. In an effort to help, Ramzi, along with his parents, travels back to his dad's Berber village in North Africa. There, Ramzi meets his extended family and encounters various cultural experiences. The story highlights their adventures in Algeria, the impact on his dad's condition, and what happens when they return home. This heartwarming tale, set in both Britain and Algeria, offers glimpses into traditional Berber culture and is filled with colorful characters.
Character compass
Ramzi
Ramzi'S Mother
Ramzi'S Father
Nanna
Discussion points
What do you think made Ramzi’s dad bring a hen into their home? How would you react if you found a hen in your wardrobe?
How do you think Ramzi feels about moving between two cultures? Can you share a time when you felt different or out of place?
What are some ways Ramzi tries to help his dad feel better? What do you do when you want to cheer someone up?
Why is understanding our family’s history important, as shown in the book?
What did you learn about Algerian culture from the story? What part of their culture would you like to experience?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in Ramzi’s situation, fostering a deeper connection to the character’s experiences.
Highlight the importance of family and culture by discussing Ramzi’s efforts to understand his heritage. Connect these themes to your own family’s stories or traditions.
Discuss the different emotions portrayed in the book, such as confusion, joy, and acceptance, to help your child articulate and understand their own feelings.
Use the cross-cultural setting of the book to introduce new global perspectives, encouraging curiosity about different cultures and customs.
After reading, consider exploring Algerian music or trying out some Algerian recipes together as a fun, educational extension of the themes in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Cultural Diversity
Explanation: The protagonist's journey navigating his mixed heritage helps demonstrate the richness of cultural diversity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect different cultures they encounter in school and in their community.
Example Lesson: Value of Family Bonds
Explanation: The story shows the main character developing a stronger bond with his family, especially through discovering his father's past.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to connect with their own family members and learn more about their heritage and ancestral stories.
Example Lesson: Importance of Problem-Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the protagonist encounters various challenges that require creative problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Children can apply creative thinking to overcome obstacles in their academic and personal lives.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: As the protagonist learns more about his father’s culture, he develops greater empathy for his father’s experiences.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of empathy towards others' feelings and situations, fostering kindness and understanding.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The protagonist adjusts to new discoveries and changes in his family dynamics.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to remain adaptable when faced with new situations or environments, easing stress and enhancing problem-solving skills.