The Lost Child of Chernobyl: A Graphic Novel
What’s inside...
One April night, people living near Chernobyl see a bright light in the sky and are told to evacuate the forbidden zone around the destroyed nuclear reactor. Two old ladies, Anna and Klara, choose to stay. Nine years later, wolves bring a child who has been living with them in the forbidden zone to their door. Anna and Klara embark on a journey to find the lost child's family. Set against the backdrop of the Chernobyl disaster in 1986, this graphic novel explores themes of human connection to nature, healing, survival, and the concept of home. It is written by the acclaimed author of 'Peter in Peril' and 'Me and Mrs Moon.'
Age
7-9
Length
56 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt during the story, and why?
What would you do if you were in the main character’s place?
What are some of the ways the community helped each other in the story?
How does the story of Chernobyl help us understand the importance of taking care of our environment?
What did you learn about courage and resilience from the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to consider the feelings and perspectives of different characters.
Invite your child to imagine alternative scenarios or solutions to challenges faced by characters to enhance creative thinking.
Discuss the historical and environmental context of Chernobyl before reading to provide background that enriches understanding.
Connect the themes of the book with current events or personal experiences to make the discussion more relevant and engaging.
Praise your child’s insights and thoughts to build confidence in expressing their opinions and ideas about complex subjects.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Compassion and empathy
Explanation: The story explores a child's journey through a significant historical event, showing how understanding others' suffering can foster compassion.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these lessons by showing kindness and understanding towards classmates who may be going through challenging times.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The protagonist's experiences in overcoming challenges highlight the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that they can face their own difficulties with determination and perseverance.
Example Lesson: The importance of history and awareness
Explanation: By setting the story in a real historical context, the book educates children about the past and its impact on the present.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and learn from history, understanding its relevance in today's world.
Example Lesson: Environmental consciousness
Explanation: The book touches on the environmental impact of the Chernobyl disaster, promoting awareness of human actions on nature.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to be mindful of their environment and promotes actions that contribute to its preservation.
Example Lesson: Hope and renewal
Explanation: Despite the bleak setting, the story conveys a message of hope and the possibility of renewal.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to remain optimistic and look for opportunities to rebuild and renew even in difficult situations.