A Boy and a Jaguar

Starred review from March 3, 2014
In his first book for children, conservationist and adult author Rabinowitz frames his lifelong struggle with stuttering against his equally long-held love of animals, which led to a career spent studying and advocating for them. “I am a stutterer,” he explains. “If I try to push words out, my head and body shake uncontrollably.” The first-person present-tense narration creates an intimate connection to the author’s pain as he is placed “in a class for disturbed children,” subjected to unsuccessful treatments, and considered “broken” and disruptive by teachers. With animals, however, his words flow easily, and a young Alan promises a lonely jaguar at the Bronx Zoo: “If I can ever find my voice, I will be their voice and keep them from harm.” Shadowy charcoal lines and the often-muted colors of Chien’s paintings amplify Alan’s solitude, but also reflect the profound joy, wonder, and healing he discovers studying animals in the wild. It’s a candid and deeply resonant account of a hard-fought battle against societal stigma, and an embrace of one’s true talent and calling. Ages 4–8. Author’s agent: Anna Olswanger, Liza Dawson Associates. Illustrator’s agent: Steven Malk, Writers House.

July 1, 2014

Gr 2-4-As spokesperson for the Stuttering Foundation of America, Rabinowitz is a role model for those dealing with speech difficulties. As a child, he discovered that, while his ability to communicate with other people was a challenge, he had a rare empathy for animals. In this autobiographical work, listeners learn how he overcome difficulties to gain a college education and eventually become a jaguar conservationist in Central America. The evocative text shows how his feelings of being trapped by a disability are reflected in his understanding of animals that are also unable to communicate their needs. Children coping with speech disorders will find comfort and hope in his example. Adam Grupper narrates the story with clarity and compassion. This audiobook, however, would be best paired with the physical book, because the illustrations add another level of understanding to this warm and inspiring story.-Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary, Federal Way, WA

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