Books, videos, and websites for Third Culture Kids
Gregor and his family are moving from Russia to America, and he is not sure he wants to go. He’ll miss his friends, teacher, and familiar places. When they pack, each family member is allowed to choose one memento to bring along, and Gregor decides on his blanket. When he meets his cousin in America, though, he is embarrassed by his choice, until he and his cousin discover that they have something very special in common. Fun fact: this book is illustrated by a TCK.
Reading level: age 4-8 years
Kathy and Louise are best friends, so when Louise goes away for the summer, Kathy is lonely and assumes Louise is, too. When Louise writes to say what fun she is having, Kathy feels hurt and betrayed. Although she plans to stay mad at Louise forever, they reconcile at the end of the summer. Although this book is not directly related to TCK subjects, it does tackle the subject of angry and hurt feelings when a friend doesn’t seem to miss you as much as you miss them.
Reading level: age 3-7 years
A little boy approaches his family’s upcoming move abroad as a series of mysteries to solve with his best friend. Each “chapter” addresses a different question that arises in his mind, including:
The format of this book makes it most suitable to be read to kids rather than by them.
Reading level: age 6-9 years
The bear family plans to move to the Philippines to tell people about Jesus. Brothers Stanley and Harold feel differently about the move – Harold is excited, while Stanley is sad about leaving his home, friends and grandparents. Talking it over with him mom helps though and the brothers go through the important rituals of saying goodbyes. A good discussion starter for young children. This book is very difficult to find online but is available from the author. Find Roger Dyer, MK Merimna on LinkedIn to request it.
Reading level: age 6-9 years
The Berenstain Bears decide to move from the mountains and into their beloved tree house down the sunny dirt road. Brother Bear is concerned about leaving his friends, but his parents assure him he can write and maybe visit. The new house is nice, but Brother Bear is worried because he doesn’t see anyone to be his friend – until the neighbors come over to visit with all their cubs.
Reading level: age 3-7 years
A young boy moves out of his old house and into a new one far away. Before he leaves, he walks though the empty rooms saying goodbye. As the car drives through town towards the new home, he takes a last look at familiar places. When he arrives at his new home he begins to make friends and feel more at home as his parents find places for familiar possessions.
Reading level: age 5-8 years