Leveled by an Earthquake! (Disaster Survivors)
Disaster Survivors Series
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
The book 'Leveled by an Earthquake! (Disaster Survivors)' by Adam Reingold details the experiences of individuals who have endured major earthquakes. It combines personal narratives with an exploration of the science behind earthquakes, the importance of preparedness, and their impact on communities. The book vividly recounts the 2008 earthquake in Beichuan, China, where 16-year-old Li Anning and her schoolmates were trapped beneath debris, incorporating eyewitness accounts and photos to convey the harrowing events and the resilience of survivors. It also provides safety tips and scientific advances that help buildings withstand earthquakes.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the characters felt during the earthquake? What would you have done in their situation?
What are some ways people can prepare for a natural disaster like an earthquake? Why is preparedness important?
Besides physical impacts, what other effects do you believe an earthquake can have on a community?
What have you learned about teamwork and helping others from this story?
Why is it important to understand and learn about natural disasters, even if they seem frightening?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to express how they might feel in the situations depicted in the book.
Use the book as a springboard to create a simple emergency plan together, making the exercise both educational and practical.
Discuss the importance of community and helping each other, reinforcing the message through real-world examples.
Keep the conversation light and empowering. Focus on preparedness and resilience rather than fear.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The characters in 'Leveled by an Earthquake!' demonstrate resilience as they navigate the aftermath of a natural disaster, showcasing their ability to adapt and recover.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to stay calm and positive, even when faced with challenges or unexpected changes in their own lives.
Example Lesson: The importance of community support
Explanation: Throughout the book, community members come together to help each other, highlighting how collective efforts can aid in overcoming difficulties.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of supporting and seeking help from others around them, whether it's family, friends, or neighbors, especially during tough times.
Example Lesson: Preparedness and safety measures
Explanation: The story educates readers on the necessary precautions and safety measures to take before, during, and after an earthquake.
Real-World Application: Children learn to apply this knowledge practically by participating in safety drills at school or home and understanding the importance of emergency preparedness.
Example Lesson: Empathy for disaster victims
Explanation: By exposing readers to the personal and emotional impact of earthquakes on individuals and families, the book fosters a sense of empathy towards those affected by such events.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be more considerate and understanding towards people who are going through difficult times, promoting a more compassionate approach to interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness
Explanation: The narrative includes explanations about the natural causes of earthquakes which can enhance children’s understanding of environmental science and the planet's dynamics.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to explore more about the natural world and understand the importance of caring for the environment to mitigate such natural disasters in the future.