GORILLA (DK Eyewitness Books)
#38 in Enciclopédia Visual- Verbo Series
on Goodreads (26)
What’s inside...
Despite their size and strength, gorillas are generally docile animals that live in close-knit family groups and, as our close relatives, provide intriguing insights into our own behaviour. This collection of superb photographs brings their story vividly to life. The book features the world's largest captive colony of lowland gorillas, as well as many other primate species. Discover the secret lives of orangutans and chimpanzees, how baboons have adapted to life on the African plains and spider monkeys to the rainforests of South America. See how gorillas and chimps have mastered sign languages and how people are trying to protect our endangered primate relatives. Written by wildlife biologist Ian Redmond, who has worked extensively with mountain gorillas in Rwanda, Gorilla is a unique and exciting introduction to the great apes, monkeys, and other primitive primates.
Discussion points
What unique traits do gorillas have compared to other animals we know?
How do gorillas communicate with each other and what can we learn from them?
Why is it important to protect gorilla habitats?
How do the roles within a gorilla family compare to those in our family?
What would you do if you were a gorilla for a day?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show genuine interest in your child's responses to encourage deeper thinking.
Relate the gorillas’ behavior to similar human actions to make the content more relatable.
Discuss the conservation efforts mentioned in the book and explain why they are crucial.
Encourage your child to imagine life from a gorilla’s perspective to enhance empathy and understanding.
Pose follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to keep the conversation flowing.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for nature and wildlife
Explanation: The book provides intricate details about gorillas and their habitats, encouraging an understanding and respect for these creatures and the natural world they inhabit.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in environmentally friendly practices such as recycling and participating in local conservation projects.
Example Lesson: The importance of conservation
Explanation: Through vivid imagery and factual information, 'GORILLA' educates about the threats gorillas face, such as habitat loss and poaching, highlighting the crucial role of conservation efforts.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to support or volunteer for wildlife protection programs and to spread awareness about the importance of preserving endangered species.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards animals
Explanation: The book delves into the social structure and emotional world of gorillas, showing their similarities to human families and emotions, which fosters empathy in young readers.
Real-World Application: Children learn to treat animals with kindness and consideration, understanding that animals have feelings and social bonds much like humans.
Example Lesson: Scientific curiosity and learning
Explanation: By presenting detailed scientific facts about gorillas, the book fuels curiosity about biology and the natural sciences.
Real-World Application: This curiosity can drive children to explore more about different animals, engage in science projects, or participate in nature clubs at school.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and active citizenship
Explanation: The book underscores the role each person can play in protecting wildlife, thereby teaching responsibility and the importance of active citizenship.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to take initiative in local community efforts, learning that their actions can make a positive difference in the world.