Not Quite Narwhal
#1 of 5 in Not Quite Narwhal Series
on Goodreads (6,208)
What’s inside...
The story of a young unicorn named Kelp who was born under the sea to a family of narwhals. Growing up in the ocean, Kelp has always assumed he was a narwhal like the rest of his family. He notices some differences between himself and his family, such as his shorter tusk and difficulty swimming. One night, a strong current sweeps Kelp to the surface where he encounters a mysterious creature resembling himself. Kelp discovers that both he and the creature are actually unicorns. This revelation leaves him conflicted about his identity as a land narwhal or a sea unicorn. Kelp is determined to find a way to embrace both aspects of his identity and have the best of both worlds.
Discussion points
What do you think Kelp felt when he discovered he was different from his narwhal friends?
How did Kelp’s journey to find out who he really is help him grow?
Why do you think it's important to have friends who accept you for who you are?
What does this story teach us about family and belonging?
How can we be kind and supportive to someone who feels different or out of place?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about each part of Kelp’s journey, relating it to their own experiences of feeling different or trying new things.
Discuss the value of acceptance and kindness, asking your child to think of ways they can show these qualities in their daily life.
Use the illustrations in the book to spark deeper conversations about emotions. Ask your child to describe what Kelp might be feeling in different scenes and why.
After reading, engage in a creative activity like drawing or creating a story together about another adventure Kelp could go on, encouraging imaginative thinking and connection to the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Identity and Self-Acceptance
Explanation: The protagonist, Kelp, discovers he is different from his narwhal family and embarks on a journey to find out where he truly belongs. In his adventure, Kelp learns to accept himself as both a unicorn and a narwhal.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of embracing their unique traits and backgrounds, encouraging self-confidence and authenticity in diverse environments.
Example Lesson: Belonging and Community
Explanation: Kelp feels torn between the land and the sea but ultimately discovers that he can have a place in both worlds. His experiences teach him about the meaning of community and belonging.
Real-World Application: This story helps children understand that they can be part of multiple communities and that acceptance can be found in various forms and places.
Example Lesson: Courage to Explore
Explanation: Kelp courageously leaves the comfort of his ocean home to explore the unknown land above. This demonstrates the importance of curiosity and bravery in discovering one’s true identity and place in the world.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore new experiences and environments, promoting growth and learning through curiosity and adventure.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Kelp encounters creatures who are unlike him, yet he shows empathy and strives to understand them. This highlights the significance of empathy in building connections.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of empathy, urging them to be understanding and compassionate towards others who may appear different from them.
Example Lesson: Adaptability and Resilience
Explanation: Kelp adapts to life both in the ocean and on the land, showing resilience in the face of change and uncertainty.
Real-World Application: This narrative encourages children to be adaptable and resilient, understanding that change is a part of life and can bring about positive outcomes even when it feels challenging.