AAAlligator!
What’s inside...
When a hungry alligator moves to a small town, he initially frightens the residents, including a young boy who encounters him in the woods. However, the boy soon realizes that the alligator just wants companionship and leftovers, leading them to become friends. Despite resistance from the mayor and townspeople, the community eventually sees the alligator's kindness and helpful nature. They begin to help him evade the mayor, but finding a hiding place becomes challenging. The story, filled with humor and heart, deals with acceptance, empathy, and community response to injustice, encouraging a shift from fear to acceptance and proactive change. Judith Henderson's narrative and Andrea Stegmaier's illustrations together deliver a touching message on social justice and civil disobedience.
Discussion points
How do you think the boy felt when he first met the alligator, and why?
What would you do if you found an alligator that needed help?
Why is it important to help others, even if they are very different from us?
What can we learn from the townspeople's reaction to the alligator?
How did the boy and the alligator's friendship change the way others viewed the alligator?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they think the book will be about based on the cover and title.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the characters’ actions and decisions.
Discuss the importance of empathy and kindness, relating them to personal experiences or familiar situations.
After reading, ask your child to draw a picture of their favorite part of the story and explain why they chose it.
Prompt your child to think about how they can help someone in their community, just like the boy helped the alligator.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: In 'AAAlligator!', the story revolves around characters understanding and empathizing with an alligator, who initially seems scary. The narrative encourages looking beyond first impressions to foster friendships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach new people or unfamiliar situations with an open mind, helping to foster inclusivity and kindness in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage to help others
Explanation: The characters in the book demonstrate bravery by choosing to help the alligator despite their initial fears. This act of courage transforms their community.
Real-World Application: This story can inspire children to act bravely and helpfully, even when they feel scared, showing them how their actions can positively impact others around them.
Example Lesson: Importance of community
Explanation: The book highlights how the community members come together to solve a problem and support each other, emphasizing the strength in unity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of participating in community activities and experience the benefits of a supportive social environment.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and creativity
Explanation: When faced with the challenge of integrating the alligator into the community, the characters in 'AAAlligator!' use creative solutions to ensure everyone coexists peacefully.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their imagination to solve problems and to think outside the box in various situations at home or school.