Zan-Gah: A Prehistoric Adventure is an excellent novel, suitable for classroom use. The hero, Zan-Gah, is a prehistoric lad in search of his twin brother in a land of harsh realities and frightful challenges. The story’s three years take him toward self-realization, manhood, and a role of leadership among his people. A dramatic and impassioned tale of survival, Zan-Gah will engage, thrill, and deeply move young adults (ages 11 to 16), and their elders too. More than just a narrative, Zan-Gah awakens sensitivity and increases awareness of life’s complexities, while gripping and holding the reader spellbound. Young people will be enthralled--and will remember Zan-Gah all of their lives.
Written by a published professor of art history, Zan-Gah makes no concessions to those would pamper or “talk down” to bright children. It is rich in vocabulary, and sometimes complex in sentence structure. The story explores such meaningful themes as survival, cultures, conflict resolution, gender roles, psychological trauma, and the wonders and terrors of nature.
The author, Allan Richard Shickman, is available on a limited basis for dramatic readings and a discussion of good writing. Use the above "Contact Author" button.
Educators and discussion leaders are welcome to use our discussion and study guide, Reading and Rereading Zan-Gah, and may reproduce it for educational purposes. CLICK "DISCUSSION GUIDE":
DISCUSSION GUIDE
AUTHOR VISITS (Making the author visit a success!)
1. Have your students at least read the free sample chapter online. Read some of ZAN-GAH yourself. The author will take questions, so tell the students to think some up in advance.
2. Send an announcement home with the students, including the website (www.zan-gah.com). Have an announcement read at least twice on the intercom (PA) system. Mention the 20% discount price.
3. Don't delay in ordering books. It will take a few days for them to arrive.
4. Place images and an announcement on the bulletin board. The author will be signing copies of ZAN-GAH.
5. Share the joy of reading. Best success is achieved when the language arts teachers, librarian, and principal are involved. The more kids reading ZAN-GAH, the better. It's a "fun" event for everybody, so talk it up!
FUNDING TIPS:
1. Ask your PTO/PTA to sponsor the author event.
2. Encourage volunteers (mentors and tutors) and community partners to purchase books for students with limited funds. Books can be given as prizes or gifts.
3. ZAN-GAH may be purchased from most vendors. Book stores will usually give schools a 20% group discount.
4. Students will want to purchase their own copy once they have read the sample chapter.
5. Take book orders in advance so that the author will be able to sign copies when he comes.
LETTER FROM A MIDDLE SCHOOL LIBRARIAN:
"We wanted to thank you for your wonderful visit to our school. You did an incredible job with your presentation and you really sparked some interest in a lot of students, both about your book and upcoming sequel and also about the whole writing process. The students really enjoyed your visit and our copies of your book are flying out of our library."—Nancy C., Middle School Librarian, Cedar Rapids, IA
STUDENT LETTERS:
"You taught me lots of things, like how many times authors have to send their book in before it gets published. You talked about how to use your imagination and you gave me some great ideas for future essays."—Kayla L., middle school student
"Thanks for coming. You are a really funny and awesome guy."—Landon D., middle school
"I learned a lot about being an author from you."—Mason M., middle school
"I loved your presentation. You are hilarious. I can't wait to see what you have in your head for your next book."—Allison S., middle school
"You are a great storyteller. Please come back soon!"—Maddie S., middle school