Pilandok and the Crocodile

Reach for this book when your child is facing a situation where they feel physically or socially outmatched by a 'big' problem. It is the perfect tool for discussing how intelligence and lateral thinking are often more powerful than brute force. In this classic Filipino folktale, the clever mousedeer Pilandok finds himself trapped on one side of a river with a hungry crocodile standing in his way. Pilandok does not use violence or speed to escape. Instead, he uses his wit to trick the crocodiles into helping him cross. For parents of children aged 6 to 10, this story serves as a vibrant introduction to Southeast Asian folklore while reinforcing themes of resilience and self-reliance. It encourages children to stop and think when they are scared, rather than panicking, making it an excellent choice for building emotional confidence.