About This Book
In 'The White Giraffe,' 11-year-old Martine is sent to live with her estranged grandmother on a South African wildlife reserve after her parents tragically die. Grieving and feeling out of place, Martine soon discovers she has a special connection to the animals and uncovers the legend of a rare, magical white giraffe. As she navigates her new life and burgeoning powers, she must protect the mythical creature from poachers and unravel the secrets of her family's past. This book beautifully blends themes of grief, belonging, environmental conservation, and self-discovery, making it a poignant and exciting read for middle-grade children.
Martine, 11, leaves England to live with her grandmother on a wildlife reserve in South Africa.
Concepts
Sadness & GriefLoneliness & BelongingFear & BraveryEmpathy & KindnessSelf-Confidence & IdentityResilience & PerseveranceLove & FamilyCuriosity & WonderFriendship & LoyaltyJustice & FairnessGood vs. EvilCreativity & ImaginationFreedom & IndependenceDeath of a Loved OneMovingBeing DifferentMaking FriendsGrowing UpFantasy & MagicMysteryFamily & SiblingsAnimalsFriendship & Social
Character Death
peril_danger
separation_from_parent
Discussion Prompts
1
How does Martine cope with the loss of her parents and moving to a new country? What helps her feel less alone?
2
What does the white giraffe symbolize in the story? How does Martine's connection to it change her?
3
The book touches on wildlife conservation and poaching. Why is it important to protect animals like the white giraffe?
4
Martine discovers she has a special gift. If you could have a unique connection to an animal, what would it be and why?
5
How does Martine's relationship with her grandmother evolve throughout the story?
External Reviews
Google Books
4/5 (1 ratings)
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