Chapter 16 - First Step to Recovery

In Chapter 16, we learned that Ishmael is struggling with trying to recover because of all of the brainwashing and drugs. Since UNICEF has rescued him, he has beat up civilians and has been seeking vengeance. If you were a rehabilitation doctor for UNICEF, how would you deal with Ishmael? How would you help him?

Chapter 15 - UNICEF

UNICEF operates on the ground in over 150 countries and territories to help children survive. It is the world's largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, supports child health and nutrition and provides education. UNICEF is funded entirely by the voluntary contributions of individuals, businesses, foundations and governments.
1. What role does UNICEF play in Ishmael's life?
2. How do you think UNICEF found him?
3. Is Ishmael happy that UNICEF found him? Why or why not?

Chapter 14 - Killing and Humanity

In Chapter 14, Ishmael is brainwashed and drugged. He finds himself enjoying all of the killing that he is doing. Do you think that Ishmael could ever learn to forgive himself? Do you think that he is an awful human being now that he has killed people?

Chapter 13 - Child Soldiers

Ishmael and his friends were "trained" (for one day) in becoming child soldiers. Name some ways in this chapter that Ishmael has been forced to grow up.

Chapter 12 - Roles in War

Children play many roles in war. Some are involved in direct combat while some serve
as cooks, spies, and messengers. Do you think any role is less dangerous than others? Why? Why not?

Chapter 11 - Not Able To Say Goodbye

In Chapter 11, Ishmael learned from Gasemu that his family has been seen in a nearby village. While on the walk there, Gasemu and the boys make a quick stop on the banana farm. By the time that they reached the village, it was attacked by rebels and Ishmael's family was dead.

"...Some said that it was Gasemu's fault that we didn't get to see our parents. Others said it wasn't, and that if it hadn't been for him, we would all be dead. I didn't care. I wanted to see my family, even if it meant dying with them."

1. Would you blame Gasemu or thank him because you missed the attack? Explain.

2. Would you rather find out that your family died right before you arrived or get there in time and die with them? Explain.

Chapter 10 - Saidu's Death

Although Ishmael encounters death early in his life, Saidu's death was very difficult for all of the boys.

1. Before Saidu dies, Ishmael remembers Saidu saying that parts of him were slowly dying each passing day. Why do you think he says this? Do you think he's right?

2. When Saidu dies, Ishmael and his friends help with the funeral. This is the only funeral that the author chooses to share with us. Why do you think he chose to share this memory with us? What purpose does it serve to the book?