SuitabookThe Magic Beads
Susin Nielsen
- Reading
- Before reading, acknowledge that the family has left an abusive father and possessions behind. Afterwards, invite the child to discuss Lillian's feelings and what the beads come to mean, without pressing for personal disclosure.
- Themes
- Safety and family change: Lillian and her mother have moved away from Lillian's abusive father and into a family shelter. The book?s stance on this remains unclear.
- Belonging and possessions: Lillian watches classmates bring toys while she has no possessions to compare, after leaving everything behind. The book?s stance on this remains unclear.
- Imagination as possibility: Lillian eventually realises that imagination can make an ordinary string of beads magical. The book presents this favourably.
- Worth knowing
- The reference to an abusive father and a family shelter deserves thoughtful attention before reading.