Rohit and Dylan are two young North American boys (one East Indian and one white) who travel to India with Rohit’s family for a vacation. Dylan’s inexperience with Indian culture puts some strain on their friendship as Rohit attempts to help him adjust to the unusual surroundings and culture. The cultural adventure opens Dylan’s eyes to the differences around him and brings home the importance of friendship when navigating the world.
Author: Mahtab Narsimhan
Genre: Young adventure
Keywords: Mumbai, India, cultural exploration, culture shock, children’s books, humour, friendship
Appropriateness for junior grades: This book is written for junior readers. The content is age appropriate but addresses many topics including; friendship, cultural difference, complex family dynamics, divorce, body image, parental expectations and delicious food. The writing is accessible for a grade 5 to 6 level.
Classroom Suggestions
What could be taught using this text in terms of content, themes, and/or literacy?
- Content: Cultural differences between India and North America. The importance of friendship and strong family relationships.
- Themes: Why different people can be good friends, The grass is always greener, culture clash
How could students respond to this text?
Activity 1 - Graffiti
Break students into random groups of three or four. Distribute large sheets of paper to each group. Each paper has a discussion question selected by the teacher from the author’s Discussion Question and Activities https://www.mahtabnarsimhan.com/wp-content/themes/wpnovelist/docs/Mission_Mumbai_Discussion_questions_&_Activities.pdf . Students take time to think about the question and then record their responses on the paper. After a set period of time, the groups move on to a different question and repeat the process without reading the responses from the previous group. When all groups have responded to all questions, they return to their original question to review all the answers. If possible have each group summarize the answers to their question and present to the class.
- Link to Language Curriculum Grade 6 Oral 1.2. Reading 1.4, 1.6.
Activity 2 - Writing About You and Your Favourite Character
Rohit and Dylan see themselves as modern-day Frodo and Sam from Lord of the Rings. Have students think of who their favourite character is from a book, movie, video game, TV Show, etc. and write a few paragraphs about how they are like the character and how they are different. Have them consider whether they would really like to be that character. What are the advantages and disadvantages of being that character? Be aware of word choice and select words and use figurative language, innovative expressions and vivid words. Student should be prepared to discuss their choice of words.
- Link to Language Curriculum Reading 1.9. Writing 1.2, 2.3, 2.4