What This Book Is About
Zanzibar is a crow. When Achille LeBlab, a lizard journalist in spectacles, comes through the neighbourhood looking for somebody remarkable to write about, Zanzibar decides to be that somebody, and sets off south to the desert to lift a dromedary with one wing.
Catharina Valckx wrote and drew the book, and it was translated from the French. At 62 pages with pictures on every spread it is one of the shortest titles on the Grade 3 list, and the humour is dry rather than slapstick. The title is the crow's name, by the way, not the island.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why We Recommend This Book
For A1-level readers (Grade 3), Zanzibar is a wonderful choice for three reasons.
First, at just 62 pages with generous illustrations on every spread, this is one of the most accessible chapter books on the G3 reading list. For children making the transition from picture books to chapter books, Zanzibar is the perfect bridge—it looks and feels like a "real book" but never overwhelms.
Second, it's translated from French, giving children a taste of European literary style—something different from the British and American books that dominate most school libraries. UWC values international-mindedness, and reading books from different literary traditions is one of the simplest ways to develop it.
Third, the premise is one every child understands: wanting to be the remarkable one, the one somebody writes about. Zanzibar goes about it in the least sensible way available, which is where the comedy comes from.
Reading Level Guide
Building reading foundations? Start with picture books and read-alouds first.
Perfect difficulty. Simple sentences and plentiful illustrations make every page enjoyable.
An easy, comfortable read. Great for a cozy afternoon, then try longer chapter books for more challenge.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.