A Look at the Cover

What do you notice about the illustration on the front cover? Look closely at the girl. How do you think she feels? What makes you think that? Tell me more about why you think that.

Student Questions

Encourage students to write down questions they have after reading the book. These questions will help lead to an inquiry that can prompt cross-curricular connections.

Leaving the Family

How did Lawrence and the other children feel on the day that they had to leave their family? How do you know?

Lawrence’s Name

What name did Mosoom (Grandpa) give Lawrence? Why is this significant? What was the message of Grandpa’s story?

The Importance of Kokom

Have the students reflect on why Kokom was an important member of the family. What do you observe in the book?