This comprehensive KS2 educational resource explores the novel When the Sky Falls by Phil Earle. This is a story about the impact of war, the power of friendship and the resilience of the human spirit.
Designed to facilitate a deep understanding of the novel over nine weeks, this resource breaks the book into manageable chapter segments for detailed study.
Use the slides to delve into the themes, characters and literary devices used by Earle. To reinforce learning and encourage critical thinking, the resource includes a variety of interactive activities.
Weekly quizzes test students’ recall and comprehension. Individual thinking tasks challenge them to reflect on the story and its meaning. Partnered talk activities encourage collaborative learning, allowing students to discuss their ideas and interpretations with their peers.
For deeper reflection, solo work assignments prompt students to connect the novel’s themes with their own experiences or the wider world.
What is When the Sky Falls about?
When the Sky Falls by Phil Earle is a powerful and emotionally charged children’s novel set against the backdrop of World War II.
The story centres around Joseph, a young boy who is sent to live with Mrs. F, a gruff and intimidating caretaker, in the city during the war.
With his father fighting in the war and his mother having passed away, Joseph struggles with anger and grief. This makes it difficult for him to connect with others and find his place in the world.
Adonis the gorilla
The heart of the story unfolds when Joseph finds solace and purpose in taking care of Adonis. Adonis is a large and fiercely protective silverback gorilla housed in the city’s zoo.
The zoo becomes a sanctuary for Joseph. It’s a place where he can escape the bombings and the chaos of the war-torn city. The bond between Joseph and Adonis grows stronger as the war intensifies. This brings out a sense of responsibility and courage in Joseph that he didn’t know he had.
Difficult decisions
As the threat of bombings over the city escalates, the safety of the zoo and its animals becomes increasingly precarious. Joseph, Mrs. F, and a small group of friends and allies face difficult decisions and the very real danger of the war. They fight to protect each other and the animals in their care.
When the Sky Falls explores themes of loss, healing and the extraordinary bonds that can form between humans and animals.
Phil Earle’s writing captures the harsh realities of wartime but also the moments of beauty and compassion that can emerge in the darkest of times. This novel has been praised for its emotional depth, historical accuracy and the compelling development of its characters.
Ashley Booth is a Year 6 teacher and phase, maths and reading lead. He is passionate about improving reading. Visit his website.
