Caffeinated Reviewer

Nonna’s Corner is a special feature where I share books I’ve reviewed with my grandchildren, affectionately referred to as the “Royals” here at Caffeinated.

We are delighted to share Savanna’s Treasure, an award – winning chapter book by C. Behrens. Illustrated by Kim Johnson, the author takes readers to the stunning landscape of the Serengeti and introduces us to Shamba, an African field mouse, and Kali, a baby elephant. The Royals loved the adventure, danger, and friendships we discovered within the pages of this story.

Set in the stunning landscape of the Serengeti, "Savanna's Treasure" follows the heartwarming journey of Shamba, an African field mouse, and Kali, a baby elephant, as they overcome incredible odds and forge an unbreakable bond. Their story, enriched by an inspiring animal alliance, earned the book a Silver Medal in the 2015 Moonbeam Awards for Early Reader Chapter Books. In a glowing review, Kirkus Reviews praised the book as "a good fit for early readers" and Midwest Book Reviews hailed it as "a fine read that takes an adventure story format and weaves it into something far greater."

The unlikely duo must face poachers, raging fires, and savage predators as they navigate the dangers of the wild Serengeti. But when they find themselves on a ship bound for America, their journey becomes even more perilous. Will their courage, determination, and wit be enough to see them through?

Fans of popular animal adventure books like "The One and Only Ivan" and "The Wild Robot" will be captivated by the heartwarming tale of Shamba and Kali. This book is a must-read for young readers who love stories of friendship, courage, and adventure. Don't miss out on "Savanna's Treasure" - a thrilling and inspiring read for all ages.

This story is geared towards young readers aged six to twelve and is perfect to read alone or to enhance a classroom curriculum. We read the story together over the course of a week, stopping often to discuss and answer questions presented by Clayton, who just turned nine, and Sophia, who loves all things animals and will be eleven next year.

The story follows a young field mouse named Shamba, who has recently lost his family and becomes separated from his friend when poachers attack. Shamba is searching for the human who fed him when he comes across Kali, a baby elephant traveling with her herd. The story that unfolds was filled with danger, tender moments and the power of friendship.

The story also taught us about the dangers and beauty of the Serengeti. We learned about seasonal changes and migration. The dangers of poachers and human encroachment. We also experienced loss, friendship and learned about conservation efforts all while keeping us engrossed in the tale.

I love when a book opens doors for discussion, emotions and activities. The author provides pdf. pages of activities, and the children, even the five-year-old, enjoyed taking part. Our discussions had us looking us pulling out maps, googling images and digging up additional info on elephants, African field mice and more.

Savanna’s Treasure is the perfect book for children on your holiday list, as well as teachers, classrooms and small groups.

Amazon

About C. Behrens

C. (Chris) Behrens is an award-winning children's author. While raising 2 beautiful daughters by himself, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Dominican University in New York. He graduated Magna Cum Laude and was the recipient of the Mother Lawrence Marie Award for Academic Excellence! His first book, Savanna’s Treasure, earned the Silver Medal in the 2015 Moonbeam Awards for the Early Reader/1st Chapter Book category. His second book, Alexander Hamilton's Wish for Battlefield Glory, earned the 2025 Indie BRAG Medallion and has received multiple 5-star reviews from Readers' Favorite. In his spare time (smile), he attended Rutgers at night for almost 2 years for a mgmt. program. Never giving up is in his blood! In 2023, he won an award from Writer's Digest for a poem about HOOPS! Two of his short stories were praised by Lorian Hemingway, the granddaughter of Ernest! Chris loves to create and never stops working hard at all he pursues!

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About Kimberly

Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram

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