Synopsis
As a young boy, Bao Phi awoke early, hours before his father's long workday began, to fish on the shores of a small pond in Minneapolis. Unlike many other anglers, Bao and his father fished for food, not recreation. A successful catch meant a fed family. Between hope-filled casts, Bao's father told him about a different pond in their homeland of Vietnam.- ★★★★★
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- Find Vietnam on a map. Discuss the Vietnam War and the refugee crisis that ensued.
- What do you know about refugees or the global refugee crisis we now face?
- Do you know a refugee?
- Little hands can make big changes. How could you help a refugee?
- Reflect on the following – “A kid at my school said my dad’s English sounds like a thick, dirty river. But to me his English sounds like gentle rain.”
- Discuss how hard his parents work.
- Does the family fish for sport or for sustenance? What’s the difference?
- Did you notice the “no trespassing” sign? Why do you think it’s there? Do you think the boy and his father were intentionally trying to break the rules or the law?
- Does the little boy complain about waking up so early or being out in the cold?
- Read this review for a chapter book written in verse for older children also related to the Vietnam War and the settlement of refugees in America.
Mindful Muslim Review
A simple, poignant story of a fishing trip shared between father and son subtly illustrates the hardship and struggles of refugee families as they settle in a new country. Set in America during the Vietnam war, the story is relevant in understanding today’s refugee crisis. This important read develops awareness and empathy for families who are struggling to start over in a new country, leaving their former life behind, fulfilling basic needs. It also builds an appreciation and sense of gratitude for all that we have, reminding us of the Quranic verse “And if you count the bounties of Allah, you cannot count them all.” (14:34)
Teaching Tools
Genres: General Fiction
Publisher: Capstone Young Readers
*This review applies only to ISBN number noted above.
