The Emergency Zoo
on Goodreads (199)
What’s inside...
It is late August 1939 and Britain is on the brink of war. Preparations are underway to evacuate London's children to the countryside. Twelve-year-old Tilly and her best friend Rosy are devastated to learn that they cannot take their beloved dog and cat with them. Worse, they discover that their pets, along with many other animals, will be put down. The girls take action by creating a secret hideout in a derelict hut in the woods, where other children soon bring their pets. This secret den transforms into an emergency zoo. Inspired by real events during the Second World War, Miriam Halahmy's novel highlights courage, resourcefulness, and camaraderie amidst tough times, and emphasizes the importance of animal welfare. This book also subtly addresses the topic of asylum seekers, filling a unique niche in children's war literature.
Age
9-11
Length
260 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Tilly
Rosy
Discussion points
How do you think the children in the story felt when they had to hide their pets? Can you imagine what you would do in a similar situation?
Why do you think the pets were so important to the children during this difficult time?
What does this story teach us about friendship and taking responsibility?
How do the actions of Tilly and Rosy demonstrate courage and innovation?
What would you have done differently if you were in the characters’ shoes, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to put themselves in the characters' shoes and explore their feelings and decisions.
Discuss the historical context of the story subtly, to add depth to understanding the characters’ actions and the gravity of their situation.
Highlight the themes of resilience and resourcefulness. Discuss with your child how the characters used these traits to overcome their challenges.
Use the story as a gateway to talk about the importance of caring for animals and the responsibilities that come with it.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: In 'The Emergency Zoo', children care for animals threatened by wartime pet culls, showcasing compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by understanding and addressing the feelings and needs of others around them, both humans and animals.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness and Problem-Solving
Explanation: The protagonists creatively protect and hide their pets, demonstrating quick thinking and resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to think on their feet and use available resources to solve problems they encounter in everyday scenarios.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship and Teamwork
Explanation: The story highlights teamwork as the children band together to save their pets, emphasizing the strength found in unity.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to collaborate and support their peers in school projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Handling Adversity
Explanation: The characters face challenging circumstances due to the war, teaching resilience and perseverance.
Real-World Application: This helps children understand the importance of overcoming obstacles and not giving up despite difficulties.
Example Lesson: Historical Awareness
Explanation: Set during World War II, the book provides insights into historical events and their impact on ordinary lives.
Real-World Application: Children can gain a deeper appreciation of history and its effects on communities, fostering a sense of temporal empathy and understanding.