4.5ā
GenreĀ ~ children’s (ages 4-8)
Publication dateĀ ~ March 31, 2026
PublisherĀ ~ Noctilune Publishing
Est Page CountĀ ~ 43
My review:
I love that the book starts out with an outline of Africa and some of the animals that are included in the story.
Kali, a leopard, is our main character and she’s eager for her momma to teach her to swim. But when they get separated in the jungle Kali meets some different animals and learns that not all resemble or act like her or her family.
Getting lost can be a scary time, but luckily no harm came to Kali. This perhaps could be a good time for the adult reader to express importance of always staying close when out and about.
We meet a few animals along the way: a chimp, hippos, a forest elephant, a bongo and an okapi. I’ve never heard of a okapi, or a liana that it’s eating (maybe it’s a leaf or tree of some sort?). Although there were little tidbits added about what makes these animals different, perhaps a glossary at the end would be beneficial.
Overall, it was a nice story of adventure, learning new things about those that live around you and how you should never compare yourself to others because we’re each unique. Kali, also, had to learn patience as she never did get her swimming lessons.
Illustration notes:
The illustrations are vibrant and lovely, and went along with the story well. The expressions on Kali changed as they should and the landscape was quite lovely.
One small note ~ the tree trunks are purple and some leaves are blue. I do prefer my children’s books to be realistic for learning purposes.
Book blurb:
Leopard Kaliās first swimming lesson is a disaster! Lost in the jungles of the Congo, with Momma nowhere in sight, Kali has to find her way back home before sundown.
Fortunately, she is not alone in her quest, thanks to a vibrant cast of jungle denizens, each with quirks of their own.
Towering elephants and elusive bongos are charming to talk to, but will Kali find Momma in time?
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