The White Giraffe
#1 of 4 in Animal Healer Series
on Goodreads (7,469)
What’s inside...
When Martine’s home in England burns down, killing her parents, she must go to South Africa to live on a wildlife game preserve, called Sawubona, with the grandmother she didn’t know she had. Almost as soon as she arrives, Martine hears stories about a white giraffe living in the preserve. But her grandmother and others working at Sawubona insist that the giraffe is just a myth. Martine is not so sure, until one stormy night when she looks out her window and locks eyes with Jemmy, a young silvery-white giraffe. Why is everyone keeping Jemmy’s existence a secret? Does it have anything to do with the rash of poaching going on at Sawubona? Martine needs all of the courage and smarts she has, not to mention a little African magic, to find out. First-time children’s author Lauren St. John brings us deep into the African world, where myths become reality and a young girl with a healing gift has the power to save her home and her one true friend.
Character compass
Martine Allen
Ben
Tendai
Gwyn Thomas
Discussion points
How did Martine's life change after moving to Africa, and how would you feel in her situation?
What role do you think the white giraffe plays in the story, and what does it symbolize?
Why is it important to protect wildlife, as illustrated in the book?
How do the themes of friendship and courage shine through in Martine's adventures?
What did you learn about African culture and landscapes from the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Martine’s shoes, discussing how they would navigate her challenges. Highlight the importance of wildlife and cultural respect depicted in the story. Ask them to think about what courage means to them and relate it to the characters' actions in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in adversity
Explanation: In 'The White Giraffe', the protagonist, Martine, shows immense bravery as she navigates the challenges of moving to a new country and living with her grandmother after her parents' death. She faces her fears head-on, including encountering a mythical white giraffe.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach their own challenges with courage, whether it’s starting at a new school, trying out for a sports team, or standing up for what is right.
Example Lesson: Conservation and respect for nature
Explanation: The book places a strong emphasis on the importance of wildlife conservation. Through Martine's adventures, readers learn about the threats facing wildlife and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to engage in environmentally friendly practices such as recycling, conserving water, and learning more about local wildlife conservation efforts.
Example Lesson: The value of kindness and friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Martine's kindness to the animals and the friendships she forms, especially with the mystical white giraffe, play a central role in her journey. These relationships help her navigate her new life.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be kind and make friends in their own communities, understanding that these bonds can provide support and joy in their lives.
Example Lesson: The importance of embracing differences
Explanation: Martine, being new in South Africa, encounters various cultural and social differences. Her journey teaches her to embrace and celebrate these differences, which enrich her experience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to celebrate diversity, understanding that everyone’s unique background contributes to a richer, more varied world.