By Claudia Aguilera and Gabriela Lyon Illustrated by Lawrence Schimel
A memorable, compelling story about the perseverance of a child and the human right to education.
The sky is still dark when a young boy leaves home for school. He has a long path nine kilometers—over five-and-a-half miles—through the mountains and rain forests of Chile. But the boy doesn’t mind. While he walks, he can count butterflies and lizards, and he can think about where the 15,000 steps he takes every morning could lead. Nine kilometers could bring the boy across ninety soccer fields, up the world’s ten largest buildings, or into a classroom at last…
Set against the lush backdrop of southern Chile, this book features one of the many children around the world who travel long distances in order to go to school. After the story, thoughtfully illustrated back matter explores the unique birds of Chile and the courage of similar students’ journeys in other countries. Striking and timely, 9 Kilometers will open lasting conversations about social inequalities, the value of learning, and the resilience of those who push past obstacles toward a better future.
- Goodreads
Discuss | Do | Learn |
Ask your family members how they traveled to school when they were your age. Discuss what it would be like to walk over five miles to and from school each day. How many different ways would you be able to travel to your school? | In the story, the teacher says it takes about 1600 steps to walk 1 kilometer/.62 miles. Take a walk with a family member to calculate how many steps it takes you to walk 1 kilometer/.62 miles. Look on a map to find something that is 5 miles from your home. | The author shares information about eight birds from Chile. Visit Britannica School to learn more about the cardinal, our state bird.
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Optional Activity:
Visit Britannica School to learn more about Chile.
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