During the summer, our children’s ministry team will share a book we love each week with questions and activities for children to engage with the book and its lessons. We encourage you to find these books at your favorite library or bookstore and read them with your whole family—since these lessons apply for all ages and stages of life!
Nasreddine by Odeile Weulersse
It’s time to go to market, so Nasreddine loads up the donkey and sets off with his father. But when onlookers criticize his father for riding while Nasreddine walks, the boy is ashamed. The following week, Nasreddine persuades his father to walk and let Nasreddine ride to avoid criticism—but then people criticize the boy for making his father walk! No matter what Nasreddine tries, someone always finds something to disapprove of. Nasreddine is a legendary character popular in stories throughout the Middle East. Accompanied by stunning artwork, this tale offers a gentle reminder to readers that it isn’t always necessary to listen to the world’s criticisms.
Main Focus: We can do what we think is the right and good thing to do rather than worry about those who mock us or tell us we are not smart.
Questions:
- What did you first think when Nasreddine had to walk behind his father who sat riding on the donkey?
- What would it be like to take care of animals and sell items at a market?
- How did it feel for Nasreddine each time people criticized him and his father?
- Why did Nasreddine’s father allow him to try so many different ways to travel before giving him advice?
- What was the father’s good advice?
- When are some times you could use that advice?
Activity: Make a card or picture for your dad for Father’s Day or for your mom. Say or do something nice for your father or mother. Make them feel that you appreciate their advice.