Read some of these fun (and funny) books about crocodiles in connection with the Coterie’s performance of Lyle the Crocodile.
The House on East 88th Street by Bernard Waber is the first book in the Lyle series. When Joshua Primm and his family move into their new house, they find a crocodile in the bathtub. Although they are a little frightened of Lyle, the Primms soon learn that the crocodile is a big help around the house.
Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile by Bernard Waber is the sequel to The House of East 88th Street. Lyle is now part of the Primm family but his neighbor, Mr. Grumps has his thrown into the zoo. Lyle is freed by a friend and goes home to find Mr. Grumps house on fire. Lyle saves Mr. Grumps, becomes a hero and can once again return home to the house on East 88th Street.
Alligators and Crocodiles by Gail Gibbons explores the characteristics, habitats and lives of alligators and crocodiles. This non-fiction book with fun illustrations will delight kids ages 5 – 10 who want to know more about how to tell the difference betweent the two reptiles. Lots of fun facts are included for both!
Cornelius by Leo Lionni is the tale of a crocodile that walks upright on two legs and does tricks. But his friends are not impressed (or are they?). An inspiring story for children ages 3 – 7 about being unique and not ‘following the crowd’ despite what others may think!
The story of two unlikely friends, Bill and Pete by Tomie dePaola tells about the adventures of William Everet Crocodile and his best bird friend Pete. Together, they make life safer along the River Nile and show that opposites do attract and can become best buddies! Kids ages 3 – 8 will enjoy this delightful book.
How to Hide a Crocodile and Other Reptiles (Reading Railroad) by Ruth Hellers shows all the creative ways that reptiles can camoflauge themselves. Kids will search the pages to find the crocodile, iguana, turtle and others. Written in rhyming verse that explains their choices in hiding places, kids ages 3 – 7 will have a grand time exploring this story.
Solomon Crocodile is a fun story about a reptile who is searching the swamp for a playmate but everyone considers him a nuisance. Then another crocodile friend soon joins in on the antics. A wonderful read-aloud (and I mean ‘loud’ at times) for kids ages 2 – 7 with and beautiful illustrations.
The Enormous Crocodile by Roald Dahl is a grim but funny tale of a crocodile who loves to eat ‘juicy children’. But his attempts and clever tricks are thwarted each time. The illustrations are wonderful and all turns out right in the end. Older children who enjoy a fun scare with a good ending with enjoy this book!
And for those reading chapter books (ages 8+), Mystery of Crocodile Island (Nancy Drew, No. 55) is full of action and suspense as Nancy Drew tries to solve the mystery of poachers on Crocodile Island in Florida. The story moves quickly and has a few surprising twists that young detective wanna-be’s will love.
More Books by Bernard Waber
Mr. Waber has actually written a number of books about Lyle and his adventures. Read along with some of these fun stories to find out more about Lyle and his family.
