The Camel's Lament
What’s inside...
A poem in which a camel compares his life with that of other animals of the world and expresses feelings of neglect and hardship. The camel, often left to endure thirst, forage for food, and sleep in the harsh desert conditions, laments how other creatures are valued and cared for. This beautifully illustrated picture book by award-winning artist Charles Santore captures the camel's perspective in a comical yet poignant way, appealing to anyone who has ever felt that the 'grass is greener' on the other side.
Age
3-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Camel
Discussion points
Why do you think the camel feels different from the other animals?
What are some ways the camel shows kindness to other creatures in the story?
How do the camel's feelings change throughout the book?
Can you think of a time when you felt like you didn't fit in, just like the camel?
What do you think is the message of 'The Camel's Lament'?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a warm and curious tone when asking questions to make your child feel comfortable sharing their thoughts.
Relate the camel’s experiences to real-life situations your child might face to help them connect with the story.
Encourage your child to express their emotions about the story, whether they agree or disagree with the camel's actions.
Highlight the importance of empathy and understanding by discussing how the camel interacts with other characters.
After discussing, suggest drawing a scene from the book, allowing your child to creatively express their understanding and feelings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The story portrays the camel’s feelings and experiences, allowing children to see the world from another creature's perspective.
Real-World Application: Children learn to consider the feelings and situations of others, fostering kindness and understanding in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The camel faces various challenges but continues its journey with strength and perseverance.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to remain resilient and persistent when dealing with their own difficulties or setbacks.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of diversity
Explanation: The book showcases different animals and environments, highlighting the camel’s unique qualities and contributions.
Real-World Application: Children are taught to value diverse perspectives and embrace differences among people and the world around them.
Example Lesson: The importance of self-worth
Explanation: Despite being different, the camel learns to appreciate its own value and uniqueness.
Real-World Application: Helps children to build a positive self-image and confidence by recognizing and valuing their own distinctive qualities.
Example Lesson: Joy in simple pleasures
Explanation: The camel finds joy in simple aspects of its journey, conveying a message of finding happiness in the small moments.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to find and cherish joy in everyday life, enhancing their overall well-being and happiness.