Kamau and ZuZu Find a Way

Gr 2-6–Through its gorgeous and evocative artwork, this book conveys emotions of loss, resilience, and hope. Kamau and ZuZu, child and grandmother, awaken to find themselves magically on the moon. Despite this sudden and difficult displacement, they find a way to make a home for themselves, even finding a way to communicate with their family back home. This moving narrative will connect with students who may have undergone a physical displacement or those who feel emotionally displaced within their current environments. The theme of finding one’s place in the world makes it an ideal resource for teaching about resilience, self-discovery, and SEL. It delicately and poetically addresses some of the most challenging realities students may face, including separation from loved ones and the struggle to find a sense of belonging. This makes it a powerful tool for building empathy and understanding among a wide range of students. In addition, the text lends itself to lessons on figurative language, as its poetic language provides vivid imagery and symbolism for students to explore. The outstanding artwork enhances its emotional depth and educational value.