The Journey Home
What’s inside...
A bear cub named Misha's search for a home leads him on a difficult journey to the orphanage run by the Forest Guardian, and then, with his new friend Ilia, to the home of his new parents.
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the main character learned on their journey?
How did the main character feel when they faced challenges? What would you do in their place?
What was the most memorable part of the story for you? Why?
How do you think the story would change if it happened in our hometown?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone, just like the main character helped their friends?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, explore the book’s cover and illustrations with your child. Ask them to predict what the journey might entail and what challenges the main character may face.
Pause at intense or emotional moments within the story to discuss your child's feelings and thoughts. This helps in understanding their empathy levels and emotional insight.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a scene from the book that they found interesting or exciting. Discuss why they chose that particular scene.
Create a 'story map’ together with your child to illustrate the main events of the book. This can help them understand the structure of stories and improve their recounting skills.
Discuss the moral of the story and how it can be applied to your child’s daily life, reinforcing the values and lessons learned.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'The Journey Home', various characters show kindness and empathy towards others, even those who are different from themselves.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be considerate and understand diverse perspectives, enhancing their interpersonal relationships and fostering an inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist faces numerous obstacles throughout their journey but continues to push forward, displaying resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence in overcoming challenges in their own lives, whether in school, sports, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family
Explanation: The central theme revolves around the protagonist's quest to reunite with their family, emphasizing the significance of family bonds.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to cherish and maintain their family relationships, recognizing the support and love that family offers.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters encounter various problems that they must solve through teamwork and creative thinking.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to approach problems thoughtfully and collaboratively, equipping them with skills necessary for academic and social success.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Facing unfamiliar and sometimes frightening situations, the characters in the book often have to summon courage to continue their journey.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of courage in facing their own fears and stepping out of their comfort zones to grow and learn.