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Koko's Kitten (by Dr. Francine Patterson)

common sense media says

Amazing true story captivates young listeners.


parents & educators say

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that Koko's kitten dies suddenly, and Koko becomes angry and sad.

Violence & scariness: Gentle Koko occasionally looks fierce and frightening, especially in pictures taken while she mourns for All Ball. All Ball is run over by a car and dies. Koko's grief is discussed thoroughly.
Language: Not applicable.

More on Koko's Kitten

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about Koko's loss. How does she feel when the kitten dies? Why is she angry? Families can also discuss communication. Talk about ways you communicate with words, and try learning some sign language.

What's the story?

What's the story?
Children love pets, and Koko the gorilla is no exception. When her keeper asks her what she wants, Koko insistently replies--in American Sign Language--"Cat, cat, cat." Enter All Ball, a tiny kitten abandoned at birth, who isn't afraid of anything--even a 500-pound primate. This amazing true story captivates young listeners.

 

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

Although this book's pages seem text-heavy, the story of these two mammal friends captivates even the youngest listeners -- and children seem even more engaged because the story is true. The photographs give the reader a closer-than-the-zoo look at one of our remarkable primate cousins.

Kids gravitate toward the story and are eager to share their own pet tales after seeing Koko and All Ball at play. And because the book expresses the despair and anger Koko feels after All Ball's sudden death, children who have also experienced the loss of a pet are encouraged to vent their feelings. Since Koko is renowned for her ability to communicate with humans, it seems appropriate that her tale opens the door for children to share their grief.

Book themes & details

Book Details
Author: Dr. Francine Patterson
Illustrator: Ronald H. Cohn
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Publication date: January 1, 1985
Number of pages: 30
Paperback price: $4.99

This review was written by Mary Dixon Weidler
 
 

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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age