Omar el Jaguar

Recently I came across a beautiful picture book in Spanish called Omar, el Jaguar by Andrea Olatunji. Andrea is a talented educator, author and illustrator, who has taught ESL and Spanish in Uruguay, her country of birth, and also the United States for more than 20 years. The book is about a jaguar called Omar, who is alone and is eager to make friends.

The main messages of this book are just so timely and important. First, it celebrates cultural diversity, showing children that our differences enrich us. Second, it reminds us that we need to care for and protect our beautiful planet.

While aimed for children between 3 and 6 years, the book is also great for those learning Spanish.

Omar, el Jaguar is my book of the month. I highly recommend it, especially for families trying to have meaningful discussions at home with their children about cultural diversity. This book also inspires families to explore the Amazonian rainforest, the lungs of our planet. I’m sure that after admiring Andrea’s bright and colourful illustrations, children will be eager to learn more about the diverse wildlife that call the rainforest home.

The book is currently available from both Amazon and the Book Depository.

Meanwhile, you can listen to Andrea read Omar, el Jaguar on her YouTube Channel at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gWkpfMJnCg&list=PL0FDd-q9xBnf_gXtFEU0end9B7WgFrqrv&index=24 . Listening to Andrea is a wonderful way to practise Spanish.

Educational resources are also available from Andrea Olatunji’s website.