The Selfish Crocodile By Faustin Charles Illustrated By Michael Terry May 2026

“I liked this story because the animals are swimming. My favorite picture shows the fish swimming with the crocodile. I would tell my friends to read it so they could learn how to be nice.” Spaghetti Book Club The Selfish Crocodile: Faustin Charles, Michael Terry

: Michael Terry’s illustrations are exceptionally bright and bold, capturing the African flora and fauna in a rainbow of colors that keep toddlers engaged. “I liked this story because the animals are swimming

: The book effectively teaches children about the "perils of being selfish" and the "importance of helping others," even those who might seem mean at first. : The book effectively teaches children about the

The story follows a large, grumpy crocodile who claims a river deep in the forest as his own. He selfishly warns all other creatures to stay away, threatening to eat anyone who enters his territory. One morning, the forest animals are woken by loud groans of pain—the crocodile has a terrible toothache and a swollen jaw. While most animals are too afraid to help, a brave little mouse steps inside the crocodile's open mouth and pulls out the bad tooth. Grateful for the relief, the crocodile changes his ways, becomes best friends with the mouse, and invites all the animals back to the river. One morning, the forest animals are woken by

The Selfish Crocodile , written by Faustin Charles and illustrated by Michael Terry, is a contemporary classic that has delighted young readers for over 20 years with its heartwarming message about friendship and empathy.

Readers often highlight the book's ability to tackle themes of bullying and making amends through its charming characters.