Gorgeous
A Little Zeb Book Series
What’s inside...
A baby zebra named Little Zeb narrowly escapes danger while learning his first words. Little Zeb repeats words he hears without understanding their meaning, and when he encounters a lion and calls it 'gorgeous', the lion is flattered until it remembers its hunger. Fortunately, Big Zeb intervenes in time, beginning language lessons for Little Zeb. The first lesson is about appropriate words for different situations, including 'not gorgeous', 'danger', and 'vamoooose!' With bright illustrations and straightforward text, this tale is perfect for toddlers and their parents, highlighting the amusing and relatable experiences of language learning in young children.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-4
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What makes someone truly gorgeous in your eyes?
How did the book's illustrations make you feel about the characters?
What would you do if you met someone who looked different from everyone else?
Why is it important to be kind and inclusive to everyone, regardless of their appearance?
Can you think of a time when you felt beautiful for something you did, rather than how you looked?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on beauty and inclusivity, setting a comfortable tone for a meaningful conversation. Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts without judgment. Link the themes of the book to real-life scenarios to help them relate better. Praise their insights and understanding to build their confidence in expressing themselves.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Inner Beauty
Explanation: In 'Gorgeous,' the protagonist learns to appreciate her unique qualities that make her beautiful on the inside, despite not fitting conventional beauty standards.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value their own and others' inner qualities, such as kindness and intelligence, over mere physical appearance.
Example Lesson: Importance of Self-Acceptance
Explanation: Throughout the book, the character's journey towards accepting her own looks serves as a powerful example of self-love.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to embrace their own imperfections and feel confident in who they are, which is essential for healthy self-esteem.
Example Lesson: Understanding Diversity
Explanation: The story showcases a variety of characters, each with distinct traits, promoting the beauty of diversity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect people from diverse backgrounds and appearances, fostering inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Compassion Towards Others
Explanation: Characters in the book demonstrate acts of kindness and understanding towards each other.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to act compassionately and empathetically in their interactions with peers.