Boy Who Was Afraid
#2 in The New windmill series
on Goodreads (68)
What’s inside...
The 'Boy Who Was Afraid' by Armstrong Sperry tells the story of Mafatu, a young Polynesian boy who has been terrified of the sea since his mother died in a storm. Determined to prove his bravery, Mafatu embarks on a solo journey into the Pacific Ocean, facing challenges such as storms, sharks, and hostile tribes. Through resourcefulness and courage, Mafatu transforms from a frightened boy into a confident young man and returns to his village as a hero, earning the respect and admiration of his people.
Character compass
Mafatu
Kivi
Uri
Discussion points
How do you think the boy felt when he was afraid?
What are some things that make you feel scared?
How did the boy try to overcome his fear?
Can you think of a time when you overcame a fear? How did you feel afterwards?
What can we do to help each other when we're scared?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation in a cozy, comfortable setting to make your child feel safe discussing fears.
Validate their feelings by sharing a personal story of a fear you had as a child and how you dealt with it.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of a scene from the book, then discuss what's happening and how the characters might be feeling.
Praise your child’s responses to show that their thoughts and feelings are valued and important.
Use the discussion as an opportunity to teach coping skills and resilience in facing fears.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fear
Explanation: The story follows the journey of a young boy who faces and ultimately overcomes his fears with courage and support.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to address their fears head-on, seeking help from trusted adults and peers, which can be applied in situations such as trying new activities or facing academic challenges.
Example Lesson: The Power of Friendship
Explanation: The boy’s friends play a crucial role in helping him overcome his fears, showcasing the value of supportive friendships.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be supportive friends and to seek out positive friendships in their own lives, enhancing their social skills and emotional well-being.
Example Lesson: Building Self-Confidence
Explanation: As the boy conquers his fears, he gains confidence, which is reflected in his actions by the end of the story.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this to their lives by taking on challenges that help them grow, leading to greater self-esteem and personal development.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Emotions
Explanation: The story teaches that it is okay to feel afraid and that acknowledging and expressing emotions is healthy.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of expressing their feelings in a healthy way, contributing to better emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships.