The Selfish Crocodile

Overview

• Written by Foston Charles and illustrated by Michael Terry.
• Story of a selfish crocodile who lives in a river deep in the forest.

Main Characters

• Selfish Crocodile: Main character, guards the river jealously.
• Forest Creatures: Various animals who live nearby, avoid the river out of fear.
• Little Mouse: Brave character who helps the crocodile.

Key Plot Points

• The crocodile believes the river belongs to him alone and warns other creatures to stay away:
  • He shouts threats, "Stay away from my river! It's my river!"
  • No animals dare to drink or bathe in the river.
• The crocodile suffers from a toothache:
  • Wakes up one morning groaning in pain.
  • Lays on his back, holding his swollen jaw and crying.
• The forest creatures speculate about his condition:
  • Some hope he might die, thinking it would make the river safe.
  • They observe the crocodile from a distance, unsure of how to help.
• A brave little mouse decides to help:
  • Climbs onto the crocodile and enters his mouth to extract the bad tooth.
  • The tooth is successfully removed, and the crocodile feels better.
• The crocodile becomes grateful to the mouse:
  • Offers the mouse a present (a juicy nut) for helping him.
  • Asks for help with his teeth in the future.
• The crocodile changes his behavior:
  • Invites all the forest creatures to drink and bathe in the river, assuring them he won't hurt them.
  • Gains their trust and friendship, and the river becomes lively again with fish and other creatures.

Themes

• Selfishness vs. Generosity: The change in the crocodile's attitude from selfish to generous.
• Bravery: The little mouse's bravery in helping the crocodile despite the risk.
• Friendship: The development of friendship between the crocodile and the mouse, leading to a harmonious community.

Conclusion

• The river, once a source of fear, becomes a place of gathering and life for all the creatures.
• The crocodile, though still occasionally snappy, is accepted by the others, demonstrating the power of kindness and community.