The Caiman
What’s inside...
The unforgettable story of a man and his alligator. When Faoro the clockmaker adopts a baby alligator, he has no idea that someday their story will travel far and wide. But the town of San Fernando de Apure would never forget this kind young man and his adoring alligator, who played with the neighborhood children, took part in Faoro's wedding, and, eventually, mourned his loss. Now their story is being shared with the world. In this delightful picture book first published in Venezuela, the author brings us back to her own childhood in Venezuela, as one of the children who used to visit this famous caiman, to tell the story of a man who loved animals and how his friendship with his alligator sparked a lasting legacy.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Faoro felt when he first found the caiman?
What are some ways that Faoro and the caiman showed friendship towards each other?
Why is it important to care for and respect animals?
How did the villagers react to the caiman, and why do you think they felt that way?
What can we learn from the story about dealing with things that are different or new to us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the relationship between Faoro and the caiman by relating it to their own experiences with pets or friends.
Discuss the importance of empathy and kindness towards animals, drawing parallels to how the characters in the book interact with the caiman.
Ask your child to imagine how they would feel in a similar situation as the villagers, fostering a discussion on fear, curiosity, and understanding.
Highlight how the story underscores the beauty of unexpected friendships and the acceptance of others, encouraging your child to share their thoughts on inclusivity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: In 'The Caiman,' the story revolves around a girl who cares for an injured caiman, showcasing her compassion and empathy towards another living being.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to understand and share the feelings of others, whether it's helping a friend in need or caring for animals, thus fostering a kinder, more compassionate society.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The protagonist takes on the responsibility of nurturing the caiman back to health, highlighting the importance of commitment and duty in caring for others.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to take responsibility in their own lives, whether it's looking after a pet, completing homework, or helping around the house.
Example Lesson: The impact of kindness
Explanation: The kind acts of the girl towards the caiman lead to a strong, lifelong friendship, demonstrating the long-term positive effects of kindness.
Real-World Application: Children learn that their actions have consequences and that acts of kindness are rewarded with loyalty and friendship, reinforcing positive social behaviors.
Example Lesson: Respecting nature and wildlife
Explanation: Through the girl's interaction with the caiman, the book teaches the importance of respecting and protecting wildlife and natural habitats.
Real-World Application: This lesson cultivates an appreciation for nature among children, inspiring them to engage in activities that protect the environment and promote sustainability.
Example Lesson: Overcoming fear with understanding
Explanation: Initially, there is fear surrounding the caiman due to its appearance and species. However, as characters in the book learn more about the caiman, their fear turns into friendship and respect.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to confront and overcome their own fears by gaining understanding and knowledge, thereby reducing prejudices and misconceptions.