A Girl Named Disaster by Nancy Farmer teaches young readers about resilience, courage, and self-discovery. Through Nhamo's challenging journey across the wilderness, the story highlights the importance of perseverance and resourcefulness in overcoming obstacles. It encourages readers to trust their inner strength and adapt to difficult situations. This inspiring tale shows the value of determination and hope in finding one's place in the world.

Our homeschool English program features A Girl Named Disaster as the core text for a three week literature unit. Here are a few examples:

• Geography and Culture: Students explore Mozambique and Zimbabwe through Nhamo’s journey, mapping her route, studying Southeastern Africa’s flora and fauna, and examining cultural traditions and family roles within her tribe.
• Survival Skills and Ecology: Nhamo’s wilderness survival highlights human dependence on nature. Activities include identifying edible plants, studying island ecosystems, and discussing sustainable living practices.
• Character Development and Writing: Nhamo’s growth inspires discussions and writing assignments on overcoming obstacles. Students write personal narratives that mirror her resilience, building empathy and writing skills.
• Interdisciplinary Connections: The story’s rich descriptions introduce biology and botany topics like wildlife behavior and medicinal plants. Students also study history by analyzing the effects of colonization, the slave trade, and modernization on African societies.