Ringo the Flamingo

by Neil Griffiths

Ringo was not like other flamingoes, as his legs just didn t work. Even though he could not do many of the things other flamingoes could, he was still able to make a valuable contribution to the flock. Find out how his bravery was rewarded in this sensitively-told story, that proves talents are even hidden beneath the fluffy feathers of a flamingo! Challenges our preconceptions about - Parents in Touch

32 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2006

About the author

Author of Children's Books.

Reviews

[Lara · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to like this one more than I ended up liking it. So, between 2-3 stars, but a warm enough heart that I'll round up.

Ringo is a little flamingo born with underdeveloped legs, and he never is able to walk. His friends and family support him, though, and help him survive and grow up. They value him, even as different as he is, and stick up for him when a strange bird encounters their community. Ringo saves the day though, partially due to his weak legs, when the colony is threated by a wildfire. His heroic actions also earn him a special role in the flamingo community, where he's appreciated for himself and all he can do.

I enjoyed the illustrations, but as a storytime book, it's a bit long for my usual audiences. As a one-on-one read, I think it'd be a good one, especially for children who have someone "different" in their lives (maybe even themselves). I'd recommend it to my colleagues who might have kids they work with who'd benefit.

[Shemona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ringo the flamingo is a fantastic read and a great way of introducing inclusion within the classroom. Ringo has a disability as his legs do not function due to this he feels very much alone. One day a terrible fire erupts in which all the other flamingos fly away, leaving Ringo by himself. As panic begins to set, Ringo realises he is not alone. He discovers a scared little chick whom he protects by overcoming his disability. By doing so he saves her, and is hailed a hero and is given a special role within the community. This makes Ringo very happy.

I feel this story is great as it involves inclusion, bullying, and an element of responsibility. It is the first children’s story I have come across which involves disability, which is a refreshing change. I feel this story would be ideal during the first week of term during circle time as it would encourage children to talk about how they should act, rules, rewards and sanctions, thus setting the tone for the school year ahead.

[Lorna · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice little story about a flamingo who's different from the others and how he still found something he was good at.