Learning to Be Wild (A Young Reader's Adaptation)
not part of a series
on Goodreads (22)
What’s inside...
From New York Times-bestselling author Carl Safina comes 'Learning to Be Wild,' a young readers adaptation of the notable book 'Becoming Wild.' This book explores community, culture, and belonging through the lives of chimpanzees in Uganda, scarlet macaws in Peru, and sperm whales in the Caribbean. It disproves the notion that culture is strictly a human phenomenon, showing how it is passed down in animal communities among chimpanzees, macaws, and whales, demonstrating our interconnectedness in this global journey.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-14
Length
224 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do the different animal characters in the book demonstrate teamwork and collaboration?
What can we learn about friendship and trust from the relationships between the animals?
In what ways do the animals adapt to changes in their environment?
Can you think of a time when you had to be brave like any of the animals in the story?
What do you think is the most important message this book is trying to share with us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion with a general question about their favorite part of the book to ease into deeper conversation topics.
Relate the animals' experiences in the book to personal experiences your child might have had to make the discussion more relatable.
Use pauses after your child’s responses to give them time to think and possibly add more to their thoughts.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the book’s themes and real-world scenarios, enhancing their understanding and empathy.
Praise your child for their insights and thoughts to foster a positive and encouraging environment for discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy towards animals
Explanation: Throughout 'Learning to Be Wild,' Carl Safina highlights the emotional lives of wild animals, showing how they care for their families and their communities.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize and respect the feelings of animals, leading to more compassionate interactions with pets and wildlife.
Example Lesson: Importance of conservation
Explanation: The book discusses the impact of human activities on wildlife and their habitats, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to protect these environments.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to participate in local conservation efforts such as recycling, planting trees, and learning more about endangered species.
Example Lesson: Interconnectedness of ecosystems
Explanation: Safina explains how different species and their habitats are interconnected, and how the extinction or decline of one species can affect many others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by exploring how their actions—like using less plastic—can have positive effects on the local and global ecosystem.
Example Lesson: Scientific curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The narrative is filled with observations and stories from scientists studying animals in the wild, which can spark curiosity about nature and science.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to engage in activities such as bird watching, stargazing, or participating in science fairs, fostering a deeper appreciation and curiosity about the natural world.
Example Lesson: Resilience in facing challenges
Explanation: Animals in 'Learning to Be Wild' often face and overcome various challenges, which can serve as a metaphor for personal perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can relate these stories to their personal challenges, learning that persistence and resilience are key in overcoming difficulties in life.