We Visit Madagascar (Your Land and My Land: Africa)
#3 in Your Land And My Land: Africa Series
on Goodreads (6)
What’s inside...
We Visit Madagascar, part of the 'Your Land and My Land: Africa' series, is an educational children's book by Tammy Gagne. Focused on introducing readers ages 10-14 to Madagascar, the book delves into its unique geography, culture, and wildlife. Highlighting rainforests, deserts, and coral reefs, it describes the daily lives and traditions of Malagasy people, influenced by both African and Asian cultures. The book also emphasizes the conservation challenges facing the island, particularly the threat to endemic species like lemurs, underscoring the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem. Readers also explore the broader context of African countries’ history, geography, politics, education, economy, and cuisine.
Discussion points
What are some unique animals you learned about in Madagascar? Why do you think they are special?
Can you describe the landscapes and environments of Madagascar you saw in the book? How are they different from where we live?
What did you find interesting about the people and culture of Madagascar?
How do you think daily life in Madagascar is similar or different to ours?
If you could visit Madagascar, what would you like to see or do there?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine living in Madagascar by asking what kind of house they might live in or what food they would like to try from the region.
Use a globe or map to locate Madagascar together, enhancing geographical awareness and sparking interest in global diversity.
Create a fun quiz or a drawing session after reading the book, where your child can illustrate their favorite animal or scene described in the book.
Discuss the importance of respecting and learning about different cultures to foster empathy and curiosity in your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: Through vivid storytelling and detailed illustrations of Madagascar’s landscapes and customs, the book teaches children to appreciate and respect diverse cultures.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this appreciation by showing interest and respect towards different cultural practices they encounter in school or their community.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: The book discusses Madagascar’s unique wildlife and ecosystems, highlighting the importance of environmental conservation.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of protecting nature, which they can practice by participating in local clean-up events or recycling programs.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: ‘We Visit Madagascar' encourages exploration and learning about new places and people, sparking curiosity about the world.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to ask questions and seek out information about unfamiliar subjects in their everyday learning.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Inclusivity
Explanation: The book demonstrates how understanding different lifestyles and challenges faced by people in Madagascar can foster empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to be more inclusive and empathetic towards classmates who might be from different backgrounds or facing unique challenges.