Jaguar

Reach for this book when your child expresses interest in the tension between humans and the natural world, or when they are grappling with the idea that some problems don't have easy answers. It is a powerful choice for children who love animals but are beginning to understand the complexities of conservation and farming life. Set in the Venezuelan plains, the story follows a cowboy who must protect his livelihood from a predatory jaguar. Rather than a simple tale of hunter and prey, it explores the deep respect the cowboy feels for the powerful cat. With stunning illustrations and a thoughtful tone, it introduces children ages 5 to 9 to the delicate balance of ecosystems and the importance of empathy even toward those we fear.