Virginia Kroll, illustrated by Xiaojun Li,
Selvakumar Knew Better
Shen’s Books, 2007.

Ages 4-9

Selvakumar Knew Better is based on the true story of a family dog who helped a young boy escape the tsunami that devastated Southeast Asia in 2004.  Virginia Kroll, who has written over fifty books for children, draws attention not only to this catastrophic event and its aftermath, but also to the strong connection between dogs and people.

Kroll begins the story by exploring the ordinary events of that extraordinary December day.  People were going about their daily lives in the small village of Chinnakalapet in southern India - but the Ramakrishnan family dog, Selvakumar, could sense that something was amiss: “That day seemed like any other day, but Selvakumar knew better.”  Throughout the morning Selvakumar paces and whines to no avail, desperately trying to communicate his fear.  The family finally sees the wave coming and begins to run to higher ground.  Dinakaran, the oldest son, runs home instead, thinking he will be safe there.  Selvakumar does not leave his side, and finally drags him out of the house.  Together, they escape the tremendous wave and reunite with Dinakaran’s family. 

Xiaojun Li’s watercolor illustrations beautifully compliment the story. The blend of dark, muted earth tones sets a daunting mood for what takes place on this tragic day. The added ink detail brings appropriate life and emotion to the characters. 

An Author’s Note at the end of the story shares facts about tsunamis and the specifics of this December 2004 tsunami in the Pacific Ocean.  Although this topic and this particular event could provoke fear in young readers, the story itself and Kroll’s approach make it suitable for young elementary readers.  A percentage of the proceeds from Selvakumar Knew Better go to Give2Asia’s Tsunami Recovery Fund.

Mary Beth Cecchini
November 2007