Welcome to the Tribe!: Book 1 (Tib & Tumtum)
#1 of 2 in Tib & Tumtum Series
What’s inside...
In a prehistoric era, a boy named Tib is often ridiculed by his tribe due to his birthmark and clumsiness. Despite the skepticism of the adults who believe dinosaurs have long disappeared, Tib befriends Tumtum, a large, playful red dinosaur that only he can see. Tumtum proves his existence and loyalty by saving the tribe's children from a pack of hungry wolves, leading the shaman to reconsider the tribe's stance and welcome the dinosaur into their community.
Discussion points
How do you think Tib felt when he met Tumtum for the first time?
What does the story teach us about accepting others who are different from us?
Can you think of a time when you made an unexpected friend? How did that friendship change you?
Why is it important to have friends? How do friends help us in our lives?
What would you do if you met a creature like Tumtum in the forest?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, relating it to their own experiences. Use the illustrations in the book to discuss non-verbal cues and emotions of characters. Highlight the values of empathy and acceptance conveyed in the book, and relate them to real-life scenarios your child might encounter.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Acceptance of differences
Explanation: Tib, a young boy in a prehistoric tribe, befriends Tumtum, a dinosaur that the tribe initially fears due to its differences. Over time, Tib's friendship with Tumtum helps the tribe to see past their fears and accept Tumtum as part of their community.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of accepting and embracing differences in others, whether these differences are based on appearance, abilities, or beliefs, promoting inclusivity and tolerance in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage to stand up for what is right
Explanation: Despite facing opposition from his tribe, Tib stands up for his friend Tumtum, demonstrating integrity and bravery.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be advocates for fairness and to defend their friends or peers when they face unjust treatment, encouraging them to act with courage in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: Tib and Tumtum's adventures underline the deep bond they share, showing how true friendship offers mutual support and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of building and maintaining strong friendships based on trust and kindness, which can provide emotional support throughout their lives.
Example Lesson: Learning through exploration
Explanation: The character's exploration of their natural surroundings leads to discovery and growth, encouraging a curiosity-driven approach to learning.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore their world, ask questions, and seek answers, thereby fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Example Lesson: Dealing with fear
Explanation: Throughout the story, Tib confronts not only his tribe's fear of Tumtum but also his personal fears, learning to overcome them with the support of his friend.
Real-World Application: This illustrates to children how confronting their fears, with support from friends and family, can lead to personal growth and strength.