Third Grade welcomed yet another mystery reader in their classrooms. Mrs. Nivedita Bal, Vihaan’s mom, surprised the third graders as a mystery reader. She gave us tough clues making it difficult for students to guess her identity. She read a short story “The Enormous Crocodile” by one of Vihaan’s favorite authors Roald Dahl.
The Enormous Crocodile lived in “the biggest brownest muddiest river in Africa” and has an insatiable appetite for young children. He thinks they are scrumdiddlyumptious in their thickness and juiciness, and should be devoured in one giant gulp. The other animals around him, however, are inclined to disagree.He sets off on a quest to find some of these savory delights, but not with the well wishes of the other animals. In fact, they wish horrible things on him, as he moves along the riverside, plotting his “secret plans and clever tricks” for capturing children. The Enormous Crocodile attempts and fails at numerous attempts to capture and eat the fat, juicy children, mostly because of the interference of other animals along the way.
The students loved the animated reading by Mrs. Bal and had a great time giggling and laughing at the nonsensical words used in the story. Not only did the kids welcome her with a drum roll but also said goodbye to her with a thunderous drum roll. Thank you very much for entertaining us with a wonderful story. We can’t wait to see who knocks on our door next as a mystery reader!
