The Clay Marble facts for kids
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| Author | Minfong Ho |
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| Cover artist | Me Fung Ho |
| Country | fa |
The Clay Marble is a children's novel written by Minfong Ho in 1991. It tells the story of a young girl named Dara and her friend Jantu. The book is set in Cambodia during the early 1980s, after a difficult period when a group called the Khmer Rouge was in power. It shows the challenges and bravery of children living through tough times.
Contents
About The Clay Marble
The Clay Marble is a powerful story about friendship and courage. It helps readers understand what life was like for children in Cambodia after a major conflict. The book highlights how strong people can be, even when facing very hard situations.
What is the Story About?
The story follows 12-year-old Dara, her older brother Sarun, and their mother. They are traveling to the border of Thailand to find food and supplies. On their journey, they meet another family. Dara quickly becomes good friends with a girl named Jantu from this family. Sarun also finds love with Jantu's sister, Nea.
Life seems to be getting better for a while. However, fighting breaks out between different groups of soldiers. This forces the families to run away again. In the confusion, Dara and Jantu get separated from their families. They face many dangers on their own. Eventually, they find their families again. Sadly, Jantu is hurt during this time and passes away soon after.
Sarun, who used to be a proud farmer, decides he wants to join the army. Dara, showing great bravery, stands up to him. She convinces him to come home with their family instead.
The Magic of the Clay Marble
The title of the book, The Clay Marble, comes from Jantu's special talent. Jantu is very lively and good at making things with her hands. Dara thinks Jantu's skills are like magic. Jantu makes a clay marble, and Dara believes it holds Jantu's magic.
Dara carries this marble with her. She thinks it gives her the courage to get through all the difficult things she faces. She wishes for good luck and help from the marble. But as the story goes on, Dara learns something important. She realizes that the "magic" isn't in the marble at all. The real strength and courage were inside her all along.
Why is This Book Important?
This novel teaches readers a lot about the effects of war. It shows that war is much more serious and painful than what is often shown in video games or movies. It helps young readers understand the real struggles and suffering that people experience during conflicts. The book also celebrates the power of hope, friendship, and inner strength.
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