I Will Always Write Back: How One Letter Changed Two Lives
on Goodreads (28,220)
What’s inside...
I Will Always Write Back: How One Letter Changed Two Lives is the true story of an all-American girl named Caitlin Alifirenka and a boy from Zimbabwe named Martin Ganda. The narrative unfolds through the exchange of letters after Caitlin chooses Martin's name from a pen-pal list in 1997. Despite their vastly different worlds, their correspondence leads to a deep friendship. Caitlin, living in a middle-class suburb in Pennsylvania, is initially unaware of the poverty and struggles Martin faces in his daily life. As they continue to write, she learns about the economic hardships and the effort it takes for Martin to stay in school. Moved by his situation, Caitlin and her family start sending financial support to Martin, which enables him to continue his education and eventually earn a scholarship to an American university. The book is a testament to the power of empathy, generosity, and the human connection that can bridge continents and transform lives.
Age
11-14
Length
392 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Caitlin Alifirenka
Martin Ganda
Martin's Mother
Martin'S Father
Caitlin's Father
Caitlin's Mother
Discussion points
How do you think Caitlin and Martin's lives changed because of their friendship?
What did you learn about the different cultures and lifestyles between Caitlin's life in America and Martin's life in Zimbabwe?
How do you think communication like letters can impact relationships and understanding between people from different backgrounds?
Why do you think persistence and understanding were important in Caitlin and Martin's relationship?
How can we apply the lessons learned from Caitlin and Martin's experience to our own friendships and interactions with others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, explain the concept of pen pals and discuss with your child what they might write to a friend from another country.
While reading, pause to explore any unfamiliar concepts or cultural references that can help deepen your child's understanding of the diverse world.
After reading, encourage your child to express which parts of the story they felt were most impactful and why.
Discuss the importance of empathy and kindness, and how these virtues can bridge gaps between diverse cultures and individuals.
Encourage your child to think about how they can communicate and connect with others to make a positive difference in someone’s life, much like Caitlin and Martin.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding diverse cultures
Explanation: The story showcases the friendship between Caitlin, an American teenager, and Martin, a Zimbabwean teenager, through pen pal letters. Their exchanges reveal the stark differences in their lifestyles and struggles, fostering a deep understanding and empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect cultural differences, encouraging them to be more inclusive and empathetic towards people from diverse backgrounds in their own communities.
Example Lesson: The power of kindness
Explanation: Caitlin's decision to send Martin her own birthday money to help him and his family demonstrates the significant impact of small acts of kindness.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to engage in acts of kindness, understanding that their actions, no matter how small, can have a profound effect on others' lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of education
Explanation: Martin’s determination to excel in school despite his hardships highlights the value of education. Caitlin’s support plays a crucial role in helping him achieve his educational goals.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to value and pursue their own education and also support their peers in their educational journeys.
Example Lesson: Perseverance through hardship
Explanation: Martin's story exemplifies perseverance as he overcomes significant socio-economic challenges to pursue his education and improve his family's situation.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of perseverance in the face of difficulties, encouraging them to remain resilient and focused on their goals.
Example Lesson: Global awareness and social responsibility
Explanation: The book raises awareness about global inequalities and the impact of socio-economic factors on education and quality of life.
Real-World Application: Children can become more globally aware and consider how they can contribute to making the world a fairer and more equitable place.