The children’s book and illustrated by Jane Ray is a beloved staple in primary education. It tells the remarkable, true historical tale of a young giraffe sent as a diplomatic gift from the Viceroy of Egypt to the King of France in 1826.
In Paris, Zeraffa becomes a national sensation, inspiring "giraffomania"—fashions including towering hairstyles, spotted clothing, and even giraffe-shaped biscuits.
She was one of the first live giraffes ever seen in Europe. She traveled on a custom-built boat with a hole cut in the deck so her long neck could stick out. zeraffa giraffa story pdf
It is a wonderful way to introduce history to young children.
Trace Zeraffa’s journey. Plot a map starting from Sudan/Egypt, moving across the Mediterranean Sea to Marseilles, and winding up to Paris. The children’s book and illustrated by Jane Ray
Children can write a letter from King Charles X thanking the Pasha for the gift. 🌍 Geography and History
📥 Download the official PDF – Please note: The authorized PDF is available for purchase or free with educator registration from select children’s literature platforms (e.g., Internet Archive, Open Library, or publisher resources). Always ensure you are accessing a legal copy to support the author and illustrator. She was one of the first live giraffes ever seen in Europe
Zeraffa's path to Paris was a monumental undertaking. After her capture, she was taken to the banks of the River Nile. From there, she sailed up the Nile in a felucca, a traditional wooden sailing boat, accompanied by Atir and the sailors who sang songs as she gazed down at them. Once they reached the Mediterranean Sea, she was transferred to a ship for the voyage to Marseilles, France.
The story of Zeraffa Giraffa is not a fable but a fascinating chapter of real history. It began in 1824 when Muhammad Ali, the Great Pasha of Egypt, decided to send a unique gift to King Charles X of France. The present was a baby giraffe captured on the savannas of Africa.