Tall Story Gourlay Book: A Parent’s Guide to Navigating its Themes

Navigating the world of children’s literature can be tricky, and understanding the nuances of a book like Tall Story by Candy Gourlay can be especially helpful for parents. This guide aims to provide you with insights into the book’s themes, its potential impact on young readers, and how you can use it as a springboard for meaningful conversations.

Tall Story, published in 2011, emerged from a blend of Philippine folklore and modern-day anxieties. Candy Gourlay, a Filipino-British author, wanted to create a story that not only explored the magic and mythology of Filipino culture, but also tackled the complex feelings of displacement and identity often experienced by immigrant families. The book centers around Bernardo, a young boy living in the Philippines who discovers he has a very tall brother, and his half-sister, Andi, who lives in London. This dual narrative allows readers to explore themes of family, belonging, and cultural identity through the lens of two very different lives. It’s a story born of Gourlay’s own experiences, infused with her desire to connect children to the rich tapestry of Filipino tales. The story isn’t just a fictional narrative; it’s a bridge between worlds, a conversation starter for families, and a celebration of diversity.

Understanding the Core Themes in Tall Story

Tall Story is more than just a fantastical adventure; it’s woven with powerful themes that resonate with young readers and their families.

Navigating Identity and Belonging

One of the most prominent themes is the search for identity and belonging. Andi, living in London, feels disconnected from her Filipino heritage, while Bernardo, in the Philippines, is grappling with his own sense of place. The book beautifully explores the challenges faced by children of mixed heritage as well as the struggles in feeling secure in one’s own identity.

• Dual Perspectives: The narrative switches between Andi’s experiences in London and Bernardo’s life in the Philippines, offering a rich view of the characters’ feelings and struggles with their identities
• Cultural Clash: The contrast between the two settings highlights the cultural differences and the challenges that both siblings experience in defining their identity

“It’s so important for young readers, especially those from diverse backgrounds, to see themselves reflected in literature. Tall Story gives them a sense that their experiences are valid and that their unique heritages are something to be celebrated,” says Dr. Elena Ramirez, a Professor of Multicultural Literature at the University of Oxford.

The Power of Family Bonds

Despite the distance and cultural differences, the bond between Andi and Bernardo forms the heart of the story. The book shows how family can transcend physical boundaries and provides a source of strength and support.

• Sibling Connection: The growing relationship between half-siblings highlights how love and understanding can bridge differences and distances
• Extended Family: The importance of extended family and community are portrayed beautifully in both Andi and Bernardo’s lives
• Finding Common Ground: The characters find shared experiences and form connections that ultimately prove stronger than their differences.

Folklore and Magic

Tall Story incorporates Filipino folklore, weaving myths and legends into the fabric of the narrative. This adds a layer of magic and mystery to the story.

• Mythical Creatures: The inclusion of kapre, a mythical giant figure from Philippine folklore, provides a fantastical element to the story that also has a real world symbolic weight.
• Cultural Richness: Introducing these mythological aspects encourages a respect and understanding of different cultural traditions
• Symbolism: Folklore is used not just for fantasy, but to explore deeper themes within the story.

Facing the Realities of Loss and Change

The characters grapple with loss, adjustment, and uncertainty in a way that reflects the emotional complexities of childhood and family life.

• Adjusting to Change: Both characters, Andi with her changing family and Bernardo, have to adjust to big shifts in their lives
• Emotional Intelligence: The story provides opportunities to discuss coping with tough emotions like sadness, confusion, and fear
• Resilience: The children learn to navigate challenges and find inner strength, demonstrating the importance of resilience.

How to Engage with Tall Story as a Parent

Reading Tall Story with your child provides a wonderful opportunity for discussion and learning. Here are some tips to make the experience more meaningful:

Discussion Prompts:

• Identity Exploration: Ask your child: “How do Andi and Bernardo feel about their identities?” and “Have you ever felt different or like you didn’t belong? How did you handle it?”
• Family Connection: Talk about family: “What makes your family unique?”, “How does your family stay connected?” and “How do they help you feel loved?”
• Cultural Awareness: Explore cultural differences: “How are Andi’s and Bernardo’s lives different?”, “What have you learned about Filipino culture?”
• Fantasy and Realism: Talk about the magic: “How do the mythical elements make the story more interesting?”, “What parts of the story do you think are possible in real life?”.
• Emotional Handling: Discuss emotions: “How did the characters feel when they face hardships?”, “How can we be resilient like them?”.

Engaging Activities

• Map It Out: Find the Philippines and the UK on a map and discuss how far the characters are apart and any cultural differences.
• Family Story Time: Talk about your own family stories and heritage to give your child more context for their identity
• Creative Expression: Encourage your child to create art or write their own stories based on themes from Tall Story
• Research Further: Look into Filipino culture together; explore foods, music, and other cultural traditions

Additional Resources

Consider exploring additional Filipino folklore, or works by Candy Gourlay, to enhance your understanding of the cultures presented in Tall Story.

“It’s not enough just to read the story, we must then engage in dialogue with children and really hear their thoughts and feelings so they can really connect with the story and apply it to their own lives.” suggests Maria Santos, a child psychologist at Stanford Children’s Health.

Addressing Potential Concerns

While Tall Story is a powerful and enriching book, some parents might have concerns about certain themes.

Discussing Loss and Change

The book touches on some heavy themes, such as the loss of a parent and adjusting to a new family situation. It is important to be open to discussing these themes with your child, while allowing them to express their thoughts and feelings.

• Age Appropriateness: Consider your child’s maturity level before reading the book.
• Supportive Conversations: Create a space to discuss these themes in a safe way.
• Individual Pace: Allow your child to process the story at their own pace and in their own time.

Understanding Cultural References

Some readers might not be familiar with Filipino culture, which could make some aspects of the book confusing.

• Prior Context: Introduce some basic Filipino cultural concepts beforehand.
• Research Together: Use books and online resources to learn more about Filipino culture.
• Open Discussion: Be prepared to have honest conversations about the cultural aspects of the story.

Conclusion

Tall Story by Candy Gourlay is not just a captivating adventure; it’s a powerful story about family, identity, and the magic of folklore. This parent’s guide provides a roadmap for you to engage with the book’s themes, facilitating insightful discussions and nurturing a deeper understanding of diverse cultures. By navigating the complexities and encouraging dialogue, you can make the reading experience meaningful and memorable for your child. Embrace the opportunity to explore this rich story and let it spark important conversations about who we are, where we come from, and how we connect with each other. This book is a bridge that connects cultures and generations in a way that is both magical and profoundly real.

Relevant Resources and Events:

• Candy Gourlay’s official website.
• Book reviews and analyses by critics
• The Philippines Historical Society events
• Filipino cultural festivals and events happening in your area
• Other literature addressing similar themes or issues

FAQ

1. What age group is Tall Story best suited for? Tall Story is most suitable for children aged 9-13, as the themes and complexities may be a bit much for younger readers.
2. Are there any sensitive themes in the book that parents should be aware of? Yes, it touches on themes of loss, cultural displacement, and identity struggles, which might require sensitivity and open discussion with your child.
3. Does Tall Story accurately represent Filipino culture? While fictional, Candy Gourlay’s work includes many real elements and traditions, offering an authentic window into Filipino culture.
4. How can I help my child connect with the characters in Tall Story? Encourage discussions about their own experiences related to the themes in the book. Connect to the characters with your family stories.
5. What makes this book a good option for multicultural education? The book’s dual narrative and contrasting setting offers an excellent opportunity to explore themes of identity and cultural differences through relatable characters.
6. Is Tall Story appropriate for children with differing learning styles? The captivating plot and magical realism appeal to a variety of learners. The use of vivid imagery makes it accessible for visual learners.
7. How can we expand our children’s understanding of Filipino culture after reading the book? Visit Filipino cultural events, sample Filipino dishes, and watch Filipino films and media content.
8. How can this book help to foster empathy and understanding in children? By showing two very different viewpoints and struggles, children can learn to empathize with others who may not share their same culture.
9. Are there any other books by Candy Gourlay that are similar to Tall Story? Yes, you can check out her other books such as Shine and Bone Talk, which also focus on Filipino themes and identity.