The Naming of Tishkin Silk

The Naming of Tishkin Silk (written by Glenda Millard and illustrated by Caroline Magerl), is a small novel which I think could be read by children from about grade three or four upwards. The story’s protagonist is Griffin Silk; a young boy who lives in the countryside with his five older sisters, his parents and his grandmother. The story focuses on Griffin’s struggle to deal with the loss of his baby sister – as well as the absence of his mother (who is recovering from the tragedy in hospital).  The story has a particular focus on family bonds and friendships - and how relationships like these are important when dealing with difficult times or emotions.

Though the book deals with sombre subject matter, Millard has taken a very gentle approach- making the story very poignant yet ensuring that it is comfortable for young readers to engage with. Millard also uses very vivid descriptive language throughout the story often referencing nature – this not only helps to build a picture in the minds of readers, but also helps to suggest that the Silk family have a strong connection to nature and live a simple, natural lifestyle (further adding to the ‘gentle’ feel of the story).

Magerl’s illustrations serve to complement the delicate/ethereal feel created by the text, depicting the characters with soft, spidery lines and often surrounded by nature (eg. tree branches, flowers, birds).

In the classroom, this book could be used in a number of ways. Millard eloquently and sensitively opens up a range of discussion points for children including; families, grief, reflection, bullying, fears, love and friendship. Additionally, the text provides many opportunities to study examples of linguistic devices which create or enhance meaning (eg. metaphors, similes, adjectives, dialogue). This book also provides opportunity to study the effects of juxtaposing imagery and words (developing multiliteracy skills).