Not Quite Narwhal



Last updated Friday, May 31, 2024

Author: Jessie Sima
Date of Publication: 2017
ISBN: 1481469096
Grade Level: Kindergarten    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: May 2024

Synopsis: Growing up in the ocean, Kelp has always assumed that he was a narwhal like the rest of his family. Sure, he's always been a little bit different - his tusk isn't as long, he's not as good of a swimmer, and he really doesn't enjoy the cuisine. Then one night, an extra strong current sweeps Kelp to the surface, where he spots a mysterious creature that looks just like him! Kelp discovers that he and the creature are actually unicorns. The revelation leaves him torn: is he a land narwhal or a sea unicorn? But perhaps, if Kelp is clever, he may find a way to have the best of both worlds.

Note to readers:
•  This is a very cute story about being different and getting along with someone like you and someone different from you, so be prepared to answer questions about what constitutes "different".

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  How do you make new friends?
•  Are your friends different from you or are they like you? How??
•  Can someone look just like you and still be different?

Vocabulary
•  Current: Water moving in a certain direction.
•  Creature: An animal or person.
•  Nervous: Anxious or uneasy.
•  Stumbled: To lose your balance, trip or fall.
•  Delicacies: Something good or expensive to eat.

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  How was Kelp the same as his friends? How was he different?
•  Do you think Kelp should have stayed on land or in the sea?
•  How was Kelp able to make friends with everyone?
•  Why do you think Kelp decided to be friends with both the narwals and the unicorns?
•  What do you do when you meet someone that is different from you?

Craft ideas:
•  Make a Narwhal (Paper Plate): https://www.craftsonsea.co.uk/narwhal-and-jelly-paper-plate-crafts/
•  Make a Narwhal (TP Roll): http://www.ajoyfulriot.com/narwhal-toilet-paper-roll-craft/
•  Make a Unicorn Mask:https://www.messylittlemonster.com/2019/07/unicorn-mask-craft-printable.html
•  Make a Unicorn (Paper): https://artsycraftsymom.com/diy-unicorn-valentine-paper-puppet/
•  Make a Unicorn (Paper Plate): https://www.gluedtomycraftsblog.com/2017/01/paper-plate-unicorn-kid-craft.html
•  Sunday, May 12th is Mother’s Day. Make a greeting card for you mother, grandmother. Or if you have an older sibling, cousin or aunt who has had a baby recently, make one for them.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!