The White Giraffe

by Lauren St. John

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The night Martine Allen turns eleven years old her life changes completely. Martine’s parents are killed in a fire, and she must leave her home in England to live on a wildlife reserve in Africa with a grandmother she never knew she had.

As soon as Martine arrives at the reserve, she hears whisperings of a mythical animal living there - a white giraffe. No one has ever seen the animal, but it leaves footprints behind. Her grandmother insists that the white giraffe is just a legend, but then, one stormy night, Martine looks out her bedroom window straight into the eyes of the tall and silvery animal. The white giraffe is real!

But why is everyone keeping the white giraffe’s existence a secret? Does it have anything to do with the rash of poaching going on at the reserve? To find out, Martine will use all of her courage and smarts, and an emerging gift for healing, in a daring adventure to save her new friend.

Dolphin Song and The Last Leopard, books 2 and 3 in The White Giraffe series are available at bookstores everywhere!

Published: 5/12/2009 (Walden Media/Dial Books for Young Readers)

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Educational Resources

The White Giraffe

Grades 3 – 5

Activities & Games, Arts and Creativity, Educator’s Guide, Lesson Plans, Reading Excerpts, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies

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Reviews

"A legendary tale full of intrigue and what life demands of a young chosen one. African folklore adds a touch of magic to the story and will help readers unders the supernatural beliefs of an ancient culture."

School Library Journal

"Magic realism, adventure, and a well-realized setting combine in this appealing tale, which will resonate particularly with conservation-minded children."

Booklist Review

"St. John's adventure-fantasy set in South Africa has all the elements - albino giraffe, dead parents, lonely girl . . . aloof grandmother, suspicious game warden, cultural mystery, poachers - to make a hit film."

Kirkus

"A fast pace, strong supporting cast and ample drama—including an especially theatrical finale—serves the story well..."

Publishers Weekly

#1 Children’s BookSense Pick 2007

2010-2011 Massachusetts Children’s Book Award Nominee

A message from Lauren St. John

Lauren St. John grew up in Zimbabwe and lived on a farm that was part of a game reserve. She had lots of pets, including dogs, horses, warthogs, and even a giraffe!

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