This story is set in a desert. The author and illustrator do an excellent job of evoking the atmosphere of intense heat and sunlight and the hardships the camel endures. Work with the class to identify specific words and phrases that convey the impression of heat. Explain the difference between literal and figurative language. Which phrases are literal descriptions of circumstances? Which are figurative? What is the impact of each?
Review the illustrations as a class. What elements of the illustrations communicate to the reader the setting for this story (i.e., a desert) and its atmosphere (i.e., heat and bright sun)? How does it help convey the message of the story?
