Big Cats!
What’s inside...
Big Cats! is Gail Gibbons’s lively nonfiction picture-book introduction to the world’s largest wild felines. Through clear, engaging text and vibrant watercolor-and-ink illustrations, children learn how lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars, cheetahs, cougars, and snow leopards hunt, communicate, raise their young, and survive in habitats ranging from African savannas to Asian mountain peaks. The book also touches on conservation concerns, encouraging respect and protection for these magnificent predators.
Age
7-13
Length
32 pages, Hardcover
Text complexity
Discussion points
Which big cat surprised you most, and why?
How do habitats shape each cat’s body and behavior?
What can families do to help protect wildlife?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a world map to locate each habitat together.
Compare your household cat’s traits to the big cats’ features.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Every species has ecological importance.
Explanation: The text explains predator–prey balance in habitats.
Real-World Application: Kids appreciate insects, birds, and local wildlife in their own backyards.
Example Lesson: Human choices affect animal survival.
Explanation: Habitat loss and poaching are introduced factually.
Real-World Application: Children learn recycling and responsible tourism help nature.
Example Lesson: Curiosity fuels learning.
Explanation: Interesting facts encourage further reading and research.
Real-World Application: Children may visit libraries or museums to explore more topics.