Lisa Kopper

This is a wonderful story about a little boy in S. Africa. It is a Realistic Fiction and is filled with beautiful illustrations in sepia tones that actually show the character’s emotions as he compares himself with various African animals. Students may recognize some of the animals, but will probably be introduced to animals they have never heard of before as well. The book is filled with different similes, “I want to be tall as a Giraffe…”, “When I’m happy I purr like a lion show more cub…skip like a spider…laugh like a hyena” and so would be a perfect introduction to similes and metaphors. In addition the story helps children recognize and name various emotions, “When I get cross I stamp like an elephant…” This book would be a wonderful independent read, as the pictures provide clues for beginning readers, or a great Read Aloud for the whole class. show less

Jafta is about a young boy who is very aware of his own feelings as he tells about how he wants to be like certain animals when he is in each positive mood. This book is very simple - most fitting for very young elementary. Jafta is great for teaching self awareness through moods and emotions relating to animals in a fun way!

The relationship between a child and an animal can be an extraordinary thing. This book provides a great example of a child's love for her dog and the dog's love for her. Daisy had three puppies, and little Daisy is the baby's favorite puppy. The baby loves to tell the puppy what to do, and spend time with the puppy. Daisy loves to run and jump and knock the baby and Mommy over. But no matter what the baby and Mommy love Daisy and all of her puppies, especially little Daisy. This book is show more sure to make anyone smile, and would be very enjoyable especially for young children. show less

Jafta is about a young boy who is very aware of his own feelings, and expresses how he wants to be like the african animals. The book is simple-good for very young elementary. Jafta teaches us about self awareness and our emotions.