Teach Reading and Writing Issue 19

6 Saffiyah’s War BY HIBA NOOR KHAN, ANDERSEN PRESS About this book During the occupation of Paris in WW2, Saffiyah’s father hides hundreds of Jewish families inside the City Mosque, where Saffiyah and her parents live. When the Nazis raid the mosque, the Jews must be led to safety through dangerous underground tunnels, but only Saffiyah can take the lead… This exciting and involving tale was inspired by the true story of Si Kaddour Benghabrit, rector of Paris’ City Mosque, and brings the reality of wartime occupation vividly to life. Thinking and talking • What did you know about WW2 before you read this book? What has it added to your knowledge? • How does Saffiyah’s life in Paris change during the Nazi occupation? How does life change for the people of other faiths in the story? www.teachwire.net | 15 Try this… n Look at the picture of the children playing. Where and how do you play? Why does play matter so much? How would you feel if you weren’t able to play? Write about your thoughts. n Make big painted butterflies. Write sentences about peace on their wings, then hang them where they will make an impact. n Collage a paper quilt using beautiful squares designed by everyone in your class or school. Does anyone in your community make blankets for refugees? Ask them to talk about their work. Could your class help? Try this… n If the three generals came to your school, what would they admire? Go on a tour of inspection and make notes. Then write and illustrate a report about the good things you’ve noticed. n Paint flowers from observation, then collage them on a frieze to create a meadow scene. Draw yourselves looking happy, like the General. Add everyone’s portraits to your display. n Discuss how the General feels and what he’s thinking on the first and final spreads. Write a letter from the General in the meadow to his younger self, advising him on why he needs to change, and what to do. KEY S TAGE 2 • How did Saffiyah use her talents and interests to help the Resistance? How did she manage to overcome her difficulties and fears? Try this… n Follow in Saffiyah’s footsteps by studying a 1940’s Parisian street map. Mark the places mentioned, then print photos of Paris under Nazi occupation and display alongside. n What does the text tell us about Baba’s support for the Resistance? What can you infer? Write a journal entry from Baba’s perspective, recording your actions and motives. Or deliver a speech in role, urging your audience to take action and explaining why they should. n It’s easy to become pessimistic when there’s bad news, but good things are also always happening. Research, write and illustrate ‘good news’ stories, and publish them as a class newspaper. BOOKS FOR SCHOO L S