Crossing the Stream
on Goodreads (80)
What’s inside...
Ato hasn’t visited his grandmother’s house since he was seven due to rumors of her being a witch. Back at the house, he finds himself sitting on a forbidden couch, drinking a strange concoction his grandmother gave him, while suspecting a nearby freshly dug hole may be a grave for him. At school, Ato and his friends are involved in a competition to gain access to an island bird sanctuary his father helped create, but their project faces setbacks from a poisoned community garden. In solving the mystery, Ato reconnects his estranged mother and grandmother, healing family wounds from his father’s death. The discovered hole in the yard turns out to be a grave, but not for Ato, leading to a tender and celebratory conclusion in this story of healing and love by one of Ghana's esteemed children's authors.
Discussion points
How do the characters in 'Crossing the Stream' show courage and empathy?
What are some challenges the characters face and how do they overcome them?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone like the characters in the book?
Why do you think the stream was important in the story?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in a city instead of near a stream?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, briefly introduce the setting and plot to prepare your child.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite character, and why they like them.
Pause at intense moments to ask how your child feels and what they predict will happen next.
Post-reading, connect themes from the book to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Create a drawing session where your child can illustrate their favorite scene, promoting both discussion and creativity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Crossing the Stream', the protagonist learns to understand and empathize with peers from different backgrounds, which helps bridge the gap between their diverse experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by being more considerate of their peers’ feelings and perspectives, fostering inclusivity and understanding in diverse settings such as school or playgrounds.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: The character faces various obstacles throughout the story that they overcome through persistence and courage, demonstrating the power of resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to not give up easily in tough situations, whether it be difficult homework, learning new skills, or resolving conflicts with friends.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: The story highlights how working together can lead to achieving goals that seem impossible for individuals alone.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cooperating with others to reach common goals, which is applicable in group projects, team sports, and family activities.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: Through the protagonist’s journey, the narrative instills a sense of respect and appreciation for the natural world and its significance.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to engage in environmental conservation efforts like recycling, planting trees, and taking care of animals.
Example Lesson: Courage to Explore
Explanation: The book motivates children to be curious and adventurous in exploring new environments and experiences, just like the characters in the story.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to try new activities, visit new places, and ask questions, enhancing their learning and growth.