About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their child is feeling anxious about a parent's absence, whether it's a late return from work or a longer deployment. Themba tells the story of a young South African boy whose father works far away in the mines. When his father doesn't arrive on the train as scheduled, Themba's worry grows, but instead of succumbing to fear, he devises a clever and brave plan to guide his father home. This story gently validates a child's anxiety while modeling resourcefulness, courage, and the power of taking action. For ages 6 to 9, it's an empowering tale that shows a child's ability to solve big problems, making it a comforting choice for families navigating separation.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The central topic is separation anxiety and fear over a parent's safety. The reason for the absence (migrant labor in South Africa) provides a real-world, secular context, but the story's focus remains on the child's emotional experience. The approach is direct about the child's fear but avoids any graphic depiction of danger. The resolution is hopeful and empowering, directly resulting from the child's actions.
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