Born For Adventure
on Goodreads (31)
What’s inside...
When young Tom Ormsby cons his way onto the great explorer Henry Morton Stanley's 'Relief of Emin Pasha Expedition' in 1887, he's looking for adventure. But he has no idea what lies ahead of him. From the exotic bazaars of Zanzibar to the mouth of the Congo River and beyond, Tom soon learns he's signed on for more than the rescue of the mysterious Pasha. He's on a journey through the ravishing beauty and brutality of a jungle world peopled by slavers, warring tribes, cannibals, and colonial masters—all jockeying for survival in 19th-century Africa. As Karr follows Tom's remarkable three-year trek, she raises some provocative questions about slavery, the right of one country to impose its cultural imperatives on another, and the arrogance that can prevent a man from achieving his ultimate goal. Startling, scary, and surprising, this true story takes the reader deep into the heart of the African past.
Age
12-15
Length
193 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Henry Morton Stanley
Tom Ormsby
Discussion points
What is your favorite part of the adventure in the book and why?
If you were to go on an adventure, where would you go and what would you bring with you?
How do you think the main character felt during their biggest challenge?
What did the main character learn by the end of their adventure?
How would you help a friend who was on a tough adventure like the one in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine their own adventures by asking them to draw or describe a journey they would love to take. Use open-ended questions to help your child connect emotionally with the characters. Discuss the character’s decisions and actions, and ask your child what they might have done differently. Highlight the positive traits of the characters like bravery, perseverance, and kindness.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The protagonist of 'Born for Adventure' faces numerous challenges on their quest, teaching children the value of bravery and perseverance.
Real-World Application: This lesson can empower children to tackle their own challenges, such as trying new activities or standing up for what is right, with courage and determination.
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters must work together to overcome obstacles and reach their goals, showcasing the power of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by working cooperatively in group projects at school or playing team sports, understanding that collective effort often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity
Explanation: As characters in 'Born for Adventure' encounter various cultures and perspectives, it highlights the beauty of diversity and the importance of respecting differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child’s everyday interactions, encouraging them to embrace and learn from people from different backgrounds and cultures.
Example Lesson: Resilience in overcoming failure
Explanation: The book illustrates how the characters face setbacks yet learn valuable lessons from them, emphasizing resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that setbacks are a part of learning and growth, helping them to face academic or personal setbacks with a resilient mindset.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and the love of learning
Explanation: The main characters' journey is driven by a quest for knowledge, instilling a sense of adventure linked to learning new things.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to see learning as an exciting adventure, motivating them to explore new subjects and ask questions about the world around them.