The Good Braider
on Goodreads (2,304)
What’s inside...
The Good Braider was selected as the Bank Street College of Education Best Book of the Year and a Book of Outstanding Merit. In spare free verse laced with unforgettable images, Viola's strikingly original voice sings out the story of her family's journey from war-torn Sudan, to Cairo, and finally to Portland, Maine. Here, in the sometimes too close embrace of the local Southern Sudanese Community, she dreams of South Sudan while she tries to navigate the strange world of America--a world where a girl can wear a short skirt, get a tattoo, or even date a boy; a world that puts her into sharp conflict with her traditional mother who, like Viola, is struggling to braid together the strands of a displaced life. Terry Farish's haunting novel is not only a riveting story of escape and survival, but the universal tale of a young immigrant's struggle to build a life on the cusp of two cultures. The author of The Good Braider has donated this book to the Worldreader program.
Age
12-18
Length
224 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Viola
Andrew
Achan
Discussion points
What challenges did Viola face when she moved to America, and how do you think you would feel in her situation?
Viola encounters different cultures in the book. How does she adapt to these new experiences, and what can we learn from her adjustments?
Family plays a significant role in Viola's life. How does her relationship with her family change throughout the story, and why is that important?
What are some ways that Viola keeps her South Sudanese culture alive in America? Why do you think this is important to her?
How do the themes of resilience and hope appear in the story, and in what ways can they inspire us in real-life situations?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening. Allow your child to express their feelings about Viola's journey without interruption, showing understanding and validating their emotions.
Connect the story to real-world examples. Discuss current events or historical instances related to immigration and cultural adaptation to deepen the impact of the book's themes.
Encourage personal connection. Ask your child to relate Viola's experiences to their own, fostering a deeper personal connection with the character and story.
Highlight the cultural aspects. Explore South Sudanese culture mentioned in the book through music, food, or art activities to create a dynamic and engaging learning experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of hardship
Explanation: The protagonist, Viola, navigates the challenges of fleeing war-torn Sudan and adjusting to life in America, demonstrating immense resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their personal challenges with strength, understanding that perseverance can lead to overcoming difficult situations.
Example Lesson: Cultural sensitivity and awareness
Explanation: Viola's experiences highlight the cultural differences between her native Sudan and her new home in America, showcasing the importance of understanding and respecting diverse cultures.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to learn about and respect different cultures they encounter, promoting inclusivity and empathy in their interactions.
Example Lesson: The value of personal identity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Viola struggles but ultimately succeeds in maintaining her cultural identity, showcasing the importance of self-awareness and personal history.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate and hold onto their unique identities, even when faced with pressure to conform.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: Viola's journey from Sudan to America teaches her to adapt to completely new environments, a crucial skill for personal growth.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to be flexible and open to changes and new experiences in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Empathy for others' experiences
Explanation: The story provides insight into the struggles of refugees, helping readers understand and empathize with those facing similar plights.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be empathetic towards peers who might be experiencing difficulties, promoting a supportive community environment.