Yasmin’s Hammer by Ann Malaspina is a story that reminds us of the value of education. Yasmin lives in Dhaka, Bangladesh but instead of going to school, she has to work to help make money for her family. Even though her parents would love to send her to school, they are unable to due to their financial situation. So, everyday Yasmin and her sister work in the brickyard to assist their family.
Yasmin knows the importance of a good education and sees the value in learning to read. As you read her story, you’ll see how she became solution oriented and never gave up on her dream.
This book lends itself to have meaningful discussions about educational rights and child labor. Students can discuss the difficult choices many families around the world have to make as it relates to education and survival.
You can use the following comprehension and discussion questions as you read the book.
- How do you think Yasmin’s parents felt about not being able to send her to school?
- How does the author describe Dhaka?
- Why did Yasmin’s family decide to move to the city? How did that affect their family?
- Why is learning to read important to Yasmin? Why is learning to read important to you?
- What are the pros and cons of Yasmin not working and going to school instead.
- How did Yasmin take the first stop in learning to read?
- How did Yasmin’s parents assist her with her dream? When did they change their mind? What caused this change of thinking.
- What values do you think Yasmin’s family holds?
- Based on Yasmin’s actions, what character traits best describe her?
- What lesson can we learn from Yasmin?
Why You Should Read This Book
Yasmin’s Hammer highlights struggles that children around the world have. It teaches us to never give up on finding a solution for a problem and reaching our goals. It also reminds us not to take our education for granted. This is a powerful story that students will enjoy!
