Eureka!

Breadwinner, The

Publication Information

Author: Ellis, Deborah

Illustrator:

Title: Breadwinner, The

Date: 2000

Publisher: Groundwood

City: Toronto

ISBN, paperback:

ISBN, hardback: 9780888994165

Recommended audience:

ABE/ABLE: Yes

ESOL:

Family:

Young Adult: Yes

Picture:

General Information:

Book Type(s): historical fiction, fiction

HSE Descriptor(s): social studies

Summary:

This coming-of-age story, told from the point of view of a young Afghan girl left to fend for her family in the times of repressive Taliban influence is both moving and suspenseful.

Teaching Ideas:

Intended for ages 9-12, this book may best be used with adults by purposefully activating prior knowledge of current and historical relevant events and especially pre-teaching proper names that may be unfamiliar (Noori, Malalia etc). There are many characters leaving/missing as the story progresses so Parvana writing UNSENT LETTERS would build comprehension and wondering about events ---- this is a great LITERATURE CIRCLE book as there is much to discuss from many perspectives; the human rights issues are many as well as understanding the cultural issues ---- Full of challenges, this story could be organized through graphic organizers that help to understand the PROBLEM/SOLUTIONS and unpack the complexity of social structures ---- Working through the text over time ADMIT AND EXIT SLIPS could generate predictions and reactions in writing ---- these could be shared to then build on the WRITE & SHARE strategy to try to build consensus. Supplement with newspaper articles and WWW sites about the Taliban. Keep a character journal for Parvana; she changes a lot throughout the story. Students may want to discuss the family's response to Taliban rules, their lives, etc. Can lead to exploration of women's rights and oppression. Students can talk about how they would deal with Parvana's family's situation. Research history of Afghanistan.

Teaching Strategies: