Consumer Critique: Are We There Yet? (book)

Kalahari Resorts, home to America's largest indoor watermarks, recently published children's book, "Are We There….Yet? Tiko's First trip to the Kalahari."

The book “Are We There… Yet?” is the first edition of a five-part series titled “The Little 5 Watering Hole” and tells the story of an elephant family as they embark on their annual summer trek across Africa’s Great Kalahari Desert to reach the cool waters of the Okavango Delta. 

Published by Kalahari Resorts and featuring unique writing and illustrations by Christie Morris of Weber Group Inc., the 22-page book is currently available for purchase for $12.99 onsite at Kalahari Resorts in Wisconsin Dells and Sandusky, Ohio. For those not able to visit the resort, “Are We There…Yet?” may also be purchased online at Wisconsin Dells or the Sandusky online stores. To truly bring the story to life and provide interaction for its young readers, customers may also purchase a Tiko elephant plush for $14.99 to accompany the book in early January.

I had a chance to do an interview about the book.

Q: What was the inspiration behind this book?

A:The book was inspired by a recently installed, state-of-the-art Kids Play Zone named Tiko’s Watering Hole, located at Kalahari Resorts in Wisconsin Dells. In an effort to design a space that was perfectly suited for tiny tots, Kalahari Resorts reached out to moms to gain their knowledge and insights throughout the development of the project. Based on their feedback, Kalahari debutedTiko’s Watering Hole – a 5,000 square-foot play area that features a 200 foot-long kiddie river, 12 slides and a variety of activities that inspire parent and child interaction, while peaking their curiosity and imagination. 

 

Q: What tips do you have for making long trips more interesting?

A: If your family is surrounded by technology on a daily basis, then being surrounded by technology isn't really accomplishing the goal of 'getting away.' To that point, ever underestimate the power of a good book. Technology is wonderful and can definitely hold children's attention when on long trips, but books can stimulate the imagination even more, not to mention are typically more educational. 

Additionally, before heading out on your adventure, try reading up on fun destinations or facts about the land you'll be traveling through. Kids love sharing information, so giving them pieces of information like what types of geology you're passing or historical facts to take home with them, is a great to engage your family as well as educate them while having fun.

Q: What is your favorite part of the book?

A: A high point of the book is where Tiko makes new friends and musters up the courage to take his first dive into the watering hole. This is very relatable to children and their level of bravery and excitement, as most children get excited for a new activity, but can then become standoffish, until they receive a little courage from family and friends. 

Also, by Tiko making new friends, he not only has playmates but new life-long friends to make and share memories with when visiting the watering hole in the future. 

This was a very cute book. My girls enjoyed it too - and they were able to learn facts about elephants and a few other African animals as well! It was a nice story, beautifully illustrated and would make a great gift.