Why, Oh Why, Am I A Crocodile?

Shortlisted for the SPARK Book Awards 2023
BOOKTRUST REVIEW

In this delightful, rhyming picture book, we are introduced to one very upset crocodile who wishes that she could be anything but herself.

Crocodile wanders alone and admires a host of jungle animals from afar. There’s a glorious parrot, an elegant giraffe, a majestic lion and a swanky snake. None of these animals are very crocodile-like but - in Crocodile’s eyes at least – all are far more beautiful and impressive than her. Who wants to be a crocodile with crooked teeth and beady eyes when you could be one of these magnificent creatures?

But just as Crocodile starts to feel at her most downhearted, she meets a blind monkey whose wise words and positive perspective reveal that things aren’t always as first meet the eye. With the help of friends and a little bit of sharing, can Crocodile learn to accept herself for exactly who she is?

Themes of negative self-image and low self-esteem are handled in a gentle and sensitive way that champions the importance of sharing our feelings. These themes are especially relevant and useful for young children growing up today in an age of social media and the impact that social comparison can have on self-image. A lovely book to share with little ones in celebration of the things which make us unique, as well as the many things we have in common!