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CURRENT EVENT | June 10, 2021

Finding Joy in the Great Outdoors

Outdoor recreation is enjoyed around the world. The U.S. has its own particular set of traditions, which, for a variety of reasons, have not always been inclusive of all Americans. Ambreen Tariq, an immigrant from India, explores the meaning of camping for immigrants and people of color in her children’s book, Fatima’s Great Outdoors. She argues that the urge to connect with nature is universal, and camping offers immigrants the chance to participate in a fun, quintessentially American activity while maintaining their own cultural identities and traditions. Listen to the author describe her own experiences camping as a child and why she begged her parents to serve bacon for breakfast.

Story Length: 7:45

Listen to the Story:

SOURCE:

National Public Radio © 2021 National Public Radio, Inc. Used with the permission of NPR. All rights reserved.

03/30/2021


Listening Comprehension Questions

  • Why are people of color sometimes hesitant to go camping, according to the author?
  • Why did the author beg her father to serve bacon?
  • What message does the author hope the book communicates?
  • What is the “model minority” myth, and what role does it play in the author’s book?
  • What did the author love about camping as a kid, and how does she believe other kids can benefit from camping?

Classroom Discussion Themes

  • What does the author mean when she says the book is about finding “empowerment in your differences”? Explain using details from the story.
  • How do you feel about camping? What is your favorite way to enjoy the great outdoors?