Nilo and the Tortoise

Reach for this book when your child is feeling small, overwhelmed, or perhaps a bit nervous about being left alone for a short period. It is a perfect choice for the youngster who needs to learn that silence is not empty, but rather full of life and opportunity. While it may look like a simple nature story, it is deeply rooted in the emotional experience of finding one's footing in a vast world. Nilo is accidentally left behind on a Galapagos island for a day while his father's boat is repaired. Instead of panicking, Nilo uses observation and patience to befriend the local wildlife, from playful sea lions to the ancient, giant tortoise of the title. The stunning, realistic watercolor illustrations by Ted Lewin bring the islands to life, making it an excellent bridge between fiction and science. It is an empowering tale for children ages 4 to 8, modeling how curiosity can transform a moment of potential fear into one of profound discovery.