CROCODILES NEED FRIENDS, TOO!

A creative, friendly crocodile just wants a chance to show the world who she is deep down.

Croc’s life underwater is rich with hobbies and interests: dancing ballet, playing the guitar, and knitting. But when she tries to befriend the other animals, they flee in terror; all they see is an ominous pair of eyes peeking above the water. That is, until a fire forces them to the water’s edge. The crocodile knits them a bridge to safety and, along the way, shows off her hidden talents and finds friends at last. Toro’s cartoon illustrations pair beautifully with his text. Unlike the frightened giraffes, antelopes, and monkeys, readers see what’s happening both above and below the surface—an inspired choice that will help them empathize with both the sweetly oblivious crocodile and the animals giving her a wide berth. The entire setting is well realized, with fantastic details such as Croc’s mother sporting a pink tank top while exercising with other reptilians and Croc’s father reading a newspaper (the Savanna Sentinel) while soaking in a mud bath. At the heart of this clever tale is a vital message: Don’t be so quick to judge, and take a cue from Croc’s friends, who learn a great deal when they look beneath the surface.

Meaningful storytelling through a deft marriage of text and illustration.