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CM . . . . Volume XXI Number 38 . . . . June 5, 2015
Reptile Flu is a story that I enjoyed reading with my four- and six-year-olds, and they really liked it too. In this book, Kamal's fear of reptiles becomes the focus when he learns he is about to visit some at a museum on a field trip. He tries to voice his fears, tentatively at first, but then finds confidence and speaks loudly and clearly:
Other notable characteristics of this story are the multi-cultural cast of characters with diverse skin tones and clothing items representing different cultures, and the breaking of traditional stereotypes (such as when Kamal's dad is doing the vacuuming, and such as female characters liking snakes and turtles while the main male character shows fear of all reptiles). The colourful images add interest to the pages of Reptile Flu. They are bright and clearly depict characters' emotions through facial expressions and body language. Highly Recommended. Karyn Miehl, a mother of two and a secondary school English teacher, lives in Kingsville, ON. Copyright © the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.
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- June 5, 2015. |
One great feature of this story is that Kamal has a fear, as all kids do, that he tries to share aloud. It takes him several tries with several different people before he finds his voice. Young audiences of this book will relate to the idea of having fears that they may find difficulty in expressing. Seeing Kamal find his voice, and truly be heard, may help young readers find their own confidence to express themselves. Furthermore, Kamal is taken seriously, by adults and kids alike. He is not mocked or ridiculed; instead, his teacher and classmates admit to their fears as well. In the end, Kamal faces his fear of reptiles, finds courage, and holds a baby alligator. The story ends on a positive note, with Kamal connecting to his mother's words from earlier in the story, that this field trip will grant him a "precious memory".