The Family with Two Front Doors
on Goodreads (255)
What’s inside...
The days and nights of the Rabinovitch family--a rabbi, his wife, and their nine children who live in the Jewish quarter of Lublin, Poland, in the 1920s--are filled with joy, adventure, and ritual, but the biggest adventure occurs one summer when the oldest daughter Adina is betrothed to a young man from Warsaw. Based on the history of the author's Nana Nomi. A Junior Library Guild Selection.
Age
8-12
Length
208 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Nomi
Miriam
Mama
Papa
Discussion points
What did you think about the way the family in the book supports each other?
How do you think Nomi felt when she had to make decisions for her upcoming marriage?
What are some differences and similarities between your family and Nomi's family?
Why is it important for family members to have roles, and how do you feel about the roles in your own family?
If you could meet any character from the book, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the family dynamics depicted in the book. Use examples from your own family experiences to draw parallels and explore different cultural perspectives. Pose hypothetical scenarios to your child based on the book’s events to help them develop empathy and understanding. Most importantly, listen actively to your child’s opinions and validate their feelings throughout the discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for family traditions
Explanation: The book showcases a large Jewish family in 1920s Poland, emphasizing their religious and cultural practices. Children learn the importance of family customs through the rituals and celebrations depicted.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in and showing respect for their own family's traditions and understanding the significance of cultural heritage.
Example Lesson: The value of responsibility
Explanation: The nine siblings in 'The Family with Two Front Doors' each have roles that contribute to their household’s wellbeing, teaching the importance of taking responsibility from a young age.
Real-World Application: This lesson can influence children to take on appropriate responsibilities at home, such as helping with chores or caring for a pet, fostering a sense of duty and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Importance of sibling support and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the story, the siblings must work together to navigate various challenges, showcasing the strength and support that comes from sibling relationships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the benefits of collaborating and supporting their siblings or peers in accomplishing common goals, enhancing their teamwork skills in everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The family encounters socio-economic challenges, yet they manage to maintain their dignity and cultural identity, teaching resilience.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to remain steadfast and optimistic regardless of the difficulties they may face, and to find constructive solutions to their problems.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As the characters interact within their diverse community, there are many moments that teach empathy and the importance of understanding people's different life situations.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be empathetic towards classmates and friends who might be different from them or facing different challenges, promoting a more inclusive and supportive environment.