The Caiman

A Fascinating & Charming (True) Story

Jos?? Faoro was, apparently, a real man who adopted a days-old caiman (similar to an alligator) and raised her as a pet. A page in the back of this book explains the true story, which surprisingly doesn't deviate too far from the slightly fantastical version portrayed in the children's book. Much like the author, who expresses childhood disbelief, I too was amazed to discover this was real. But it is, and that makes the tale even more fascinating.

As for the story itself: I found it slightly dry at times but overall enjoyable. I worry a child might grow bored or not understand some of the words, so a bit of guidance might be necessary. Actually, given this is a story about taking a baby alligator as a pet and emphasizes that it's based in reality, parental guidance is likely required anyway. I live somewhere with wild alligators and would be concerned a child might try to make one into a pet and get hurt!

That said, the story is fun at first and then beautifully heartwarming as it touches in a sensitive and tactful way on the impact of grief after losing someone beloved. The art is of a style I've never seen before which can sometimes be a bit uncanny, but I found it to mostly be engaging and aesthetically pleasing. I especially liked how the caiman was drawn!

While I wouldn't give this to young children around here due to having actual alligators around, I think older children (9 and older) are properly capable of understanding it and enjoying it while knowing they shouldn't go adopt a wild alligator of their own.

Faoro, the town jeweler and watchmaker, finds a baby alligator which he takes home and raises. Faoro names the baby alligator Night, and Night becomes an important part of Faoro's life, so much a part that he makes sure Night will get along with his neighbor, Angela, before he decides to marry her. Sadly, Faoro dies, but Night and Angela stay together all their lives.

A beautiful story of love and friendship and caring, with charming illustrations and fresh text.