Brothers in Hope: The Story of the Lost Boys of Sudan

Title: Brothers in Hope: the Story of the Lost Boys of Sudan
Author: Mary Williams (Founder of the Lost Boys Foundation)
Illustrator: R. Gregory Christie
Publisher: Lee & Low Books
Copyright 2005
Word Density: High
My recommended age-appropriateness: 6-12

Summary: Brothers in Hope is the true story of young Garang , who was about eight years old when his Sudanese village was brutally attacked and his family torn apart. Out in the fields tending livestock when the attack occurred, he escaped the initial assault. Soon he discovered that many other boys were in the same situation. The boys banded together and began walking. Garang and about 30,000 other boys walked from Sudan to Ethiopia, then on to Kenya, a trip of almost 1,000 miles. In his own words, he describes his journey and how he and the other Lost Boys became a family to each other, taking care of one another and supporting one another through unbelievable circumstances. Told in a simple and straightforward manner, and accompanied by illustrations that are at once unpretentious and sympathetic, Brothers in Hope is a stirring journey of faith, perseverance, and hope.

Preschool Themes:

1. Multicultural awareness.

2. World events and humanitarianism.

3. Children coping with loss and tragedy.

4. Hope.

Christian Themes:

1. "I am not lost. God knows where I am." (from text)

2. God will never leave us or forsake us.

3. Love your neighbor as yourself.

Scripture Connections:

1. Psalm 23, especially Psalm 23:4 "Even if I walk through a very dark valley, I will not be afraid, because you are with me. Your rod and your shepherd's staff comfort me." (New Century Version)

2. Deuteronomy 31:6. "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." (NIV)

3. Deuteronomy 31:8. "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." (NIV)

4. Romans 12:10. "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves." (NIV)

Song Suggestions:

1. "The Lord is My Shepherd" by Cedarmont Kids from the Songs of Praise recording.

2. "Be Strong and Courageous" by Colin Buchanan from his "Jesus Rocks the World" CD. Published by Wanaaring Road Music. Hear samples and view ordering information at Word Australia.

3. "Love, Love," by Cedarmont Kids from the Songs of Praise recording.

Enrichment:
Play some African music softly in the background while the story is being read aloud.
Show photos from a large library book of the region mentioned in the story.
Paint or color pictures using the color scheme shown in the book: yellows, browns, greens, ochres, etc.