November 18, 2023

Quote of the Week

"Folks can change their ways much as they want to. But I do not care how many times you change your ways, what is in you is in you, and it has got to come out." --James Baldwin

Belfast

Gather with family and friends over this endearing and poignant movie 'Belfast' that shows a family in the midst of Ireland's sectarian violence in late 60s. Uniquely so, the story is told through the eyes of nine-year-old 'Buddy', as his inter-generational family, including parents, Ma and Pa, elder brother Will, Granny and Pop, contemplate exacting choices with utmost grace and humanity. Whether to move on from Belfast or to hold onto their identity and place.

The black and white cinematography makes each frame a visually stunning treat, as does the family's sense of humor in the face of turmoil gripping their beloved hometown.

Here's a clip (touching and timely!) of Buddy and his grandfather 'Pop'.

Additional gift: Buddy and family reminded us of Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang, a 1969 musical about a magic flying car. So here is the movie's theme song for a sing-along with your loved ones. 

Reading Corner

Name: The Trumpet of the Swan
Author: E.B. White
Ages: Grade 4 and above

"An uplifting story, which blends wildlife and nature with fantasy to make a tender, humorous and unforgettable animal tale.

Unlike other cygnets, Louis, the trumpeter swan, cannot utter a sound. But with the encouragement of his father, Louis sets out to overcome his problem. One way of doing this Louis decides, is to learn to read and write and so he sets off to Montana to find his friend Sam Beaver. Louis goes to school with him and learns to read and write, but when he returns to the lakes and falls in love with the beautiful Serena, he is upset that Serena can't read his sign, which says 'I love you'. Once again his parents are determined to help him find a new way of expressing himself and it is his father who dreams up the brilliant solution that will put Louis firmly on the path to success and fulfillment." -- Publisher

Be the Change

Invite children around you to shape a 'BIO-POEM''. A bio-poem is a poem about one's self, experiences, relations, what we see, hear, feel, the quirky things that don't add-up (in friendship circles, people on the streets, to give a few examples). Encourage children to go beyond the traditional categories that we are assigned in terms of our ethnic, national, demographic traits. The poem could be just a few sentences, some make-believe words or phrases; children could choose to write in their mother tongue or script, and not necessarily stick to English.

This exercise is suited for children from grade 5 and onward.

We were inspired to source this exercise from here; read through for further guidance if you please.