Surviving the Wild: Rainbow the Koala
#2 of 3 in Surviving the Wild Series
on Goodreads (289)
What’s inside...
Rainbow the Koala is venturing out to live independently, but faces numerous challenges including dealing with a mocking kookaburra bird and struggling to find a home. The situation becomes perilous as a scorching heatwave strikes and Rainbow suffers from dehydration, culminating in a life-threatening bush fire. This early reader graphic novel series combines humor and suspense, and is inspired by true events. It also includes educational content about climate change, koalas, and environmental protection.
Character compass
Rainbow The Koala
Rainbow'S Mother
Discussion points
How do you think Rainbow the Koala felt when she was lost? What would you do if you were in her situation?
What does friendship mean according to the story? Can you think of a time when a friend helped you like how Rainbow's friends helped her?
What did you learn about koalas and their habitat from this book?
How did Rainbow overcome her challenges in the wild? What qualities did she show that helped her survive?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Rainbow's journey. Validate their emotions and relate them to personal experiences.
While discussing the book, focus on the problem-solving and teamwork aspects. Ask your child how they use teamwork in their daily life.
Use the book’s illustrations to talk about the setting and ask your child to describe what they see. This will help them connect visually and verbally with the story.
Highlight key moments of resilience and bravery shown by Rainbow. Discuss with your child how these qualities can be applied in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: In the story, Rainbow the Koala helps other animals in need, demonstrating kindness and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize the feelings of others and offer assistance or comfort, fostering a nurturing environment at home and school.
Example Lesson: Adaptability and problem-solving
Explanation: Rainbow encounters various challenges in the wild but uses quick thinking to overcome them, showcasing adaptability.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of adapting to new situations and thinking creatively to solve problems, skills that are beneficial in everyday life.
Example Lesson: The importance of conservation
Explanation: The book highlights the impact of human activities on natural habitats and the importance of preserving them.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in environmentally friendly practices like recycling and conserving water, helping them develop respect for nature.
Example Lesson: Courage and resilience
Explanation: Rainbow faces fears and uncertainties in the wild, yet remains courageous throughout her journey.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their own fears and challenges with bravery, understanding that resilience is key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Rainbow builds relationships with other animals, learning that teamwork can achieve greater results than working alone.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of building friendships and collaborating with others to achieve common goals in school projects or team sports.