More than a story. A learning tool that brings animal care and conservation to life.
This colouring, activity, and story book — with an accompanying video story — helps children understand how zoos care for animals and protect wildlife, all through an engaging, kid-friendly adventure. The book is 32 pages. A4 size - 210mm wide by 297mm high.
Perfect for curious minds aged 3–10, it blends storytelling, creativity, and real-world learning in a way that works equally well in classrooms, zoos, and homes. Zoo Gift Shops and Primary School classes going on a trip to their zoo, safari park or animal rescue shelter would particularly benefit from copies to enhance children’s learning.
‼️ Why this book matters#
🦉 1. Promotes Caring for Animals#
Firstly this book highlights the dedication that zookeepers have to giving exceptional animal care. Children are introduced to the whimisical story of Janine the zookeeper and John a local clothes maker who join up to give the animals rhyming pieces of clothing to protect them from the flu and storm.
Of course this wouldn’t happen in real life but it is intended to show how zookeepers go to great lenghts to care for their furry friends. Through it children learn to appreciate the compassion and responsibility involved in animal care.
🌍 2. Promotes Caring for our World#
When the Zoo Caught the Flu helps children understand how a changing world affects animals and their habitats. As people build more homes, roads, and cities, wildlife can lose the spaces they need to survive (DEFRA, 2026).
The book shows that modern zoos are conservation centres, not just places to visit animals. Zoos help protect endangered animals and preserving biodiversity by providing safe environments and supporting breeding programmes that act as a safety net for species at risk (BIAZA, 2026).
Big concepts are made simple, engaging, and meaningful, helping children see that everyone can play a part in caring for the natural world.
🎨 3. Encourages Active Learning#
Children don’t just read the story — they take part:
- 🎨 Colouring animals as they recover
- 🧩 Solving puzzles to help Janine’s rescue mission
- 🦓 Discovering fascinating animal facts
- 📱 Following along with the video story online
For instance the crossword helps kids learn more about the animals in the story and the maze activity introduces how Animal Rescue works:
This multi-format approach supports different learning styles and keeps children engaged and curious.
📚 4. A Valuable Resource for Schools#
Teachers can use The Zoo Book to support learning across:
- Science (Animal research and habitats)
- Endangered Species Animal Protection and Biodiversity
- Environmental studies and Conservation
- Literacy and comprehension
- Creative expression
The Book is especially suited to accompany a class trip to your local zoo, wildlife centre or animal rescue.
🏞️ 5. A Powerful Engagement Tool for Zoos and Wildlife Parks#
- Strengthens connections with schools and families
- Reinforces positive messages about animal welfare
- Encourages curiosity and repeat visits
- Can be adapted to different zoos and settings
It helps zoos share their story in a way children understand — and remember. The video can be shared on zoo’s social media channels.
At its heart, When the Zoo Caught the Flu encourages children to care
for animals, for nature, and is a resource for zoos and schools.
📚 References