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I... Am... Cheetah!: The Gift
It's Friday at Safari Park. It's Park Day! It doesn't get much better than that. At least until the park bully shows up. She thinks all animal lovers are just a bunch of geeks and nerds, but five kids don't agree. Together, they decide to create THE WILD ANIMAL KIDS CLUB to learn about endangered animals. But wait! This club is special. This club has a secret and no one can ever...ever find out what they are hiding. But you can!
Come join The Wild Animal Kids as they discover a magical secret that will teach them about endangered animals in a way they could have never dreamed of. It's a secret powered by their imagination and the belief that anything is possible. But will the Wild Animal Kids stand up for what they believe in? Will they finally find the courage to stand up to the park bully?
Only...if they believe!
Only...if they can find the magic within themselves!
Park Day just got a little more interesting!
Do your kids love animals? If they do, they are in for a treat I...AM...CHEETAH! ~The Gift~ is the first book in THE WILD ANIMAL KIDS CLUB series. It's a series filled with friendship, humor, challenges, a bit of fantasy, and of course, the beauty of some our planet's most endangered wild creatures. It's a wonderful chapter book for ages 8-11 and a great story to share with younger readers. You're never too young to fall in love with a cheetah!
Read review from a Scribendi Editor: "...I loved this! It's a really strong piece of work that ticks all the boxes: it's got fantasy, adventure, it's got a clear moral, it's got jeopardy and excitement, it's got overcoming adversity... and all done with an innocent and non-violent tale. Not to mention it educates the audience about animals.
It's clear, it's fun, and it holds the interest all the way through. Super! What's not to love here? The characters are strong and individual, the prose is nicely and simply constructed, the narrative is neatly divided into digestible chapters with great cliffhanger endings, and it's all just a lot of fun!"
Come join The Wild Animal Kids as they discover a magical secret that will teach them about endangered animals in a way they could have never dreamed of. It's a secret powered by their imagination and the belief that anything is possible. But will the Wild Animal Kids stand up for what they believe in? Will they finally find the courage to stand up to the park bully?
Only...if they believe!
Only...if they can find the magic within themselves!
Park Day just got a little more interesting!
Do your kids love animals? If they do, they are in for a treat I...AM...CHEETAH! ~The Gift~ is the first book in THE WILD ANIMAL KIDS CLUB series. It's a series filled with friendship, humor, challenges, a bit of fantasy, and of course, the beauty of some our planet's most endangered wild creatures. It's a wonderful chapter book for ages 8-11 and a great story to share with younger readers. You're never too young to fall in love with a cheetah!
Read review from a Scribendi Editor: "...I loved this! It's a really strong piece of work that ticks all the boxes: it's got fantasy, adventure, it's got a clear moral, it's got jeopardy and excitement, it's got overcoming adversity... and all done with an innocent and non-violent tale. Not to mention it educates the audience about animals.
It's clear, it's fun, and it holds the interest all the way through. Super! What's not to love here? The characters are strong and individual, the prose is nicely and simply constructed, the narrative is neatly divided into digestible chapters with great cliffhanger endings, and it's all just a lot of fun!"
155 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2014
47 people are currently reading
902 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
February 19, 2021
I...Am...Cheetah is the magical story of five kids—Nathan, David, Gabby, Dorian, and Cassidy—and a mysterious portal. When the portal sends them three cheetahs, they need to go on challenging adventures throughout Safari Park to keep the cheetahs safe. This all leads up to an ultimate climax, and finally, the resolution that is a true work of art.
I found this book’s scenes very hilarious, especially a chase scene in which Dorian chases Chase, Chase chases a poodle, and so on. There are many funny instances like this that will keep the reader interested.
Even though this book is fictional, I learned many interesting and cool facts about this endangered species—the cheetah.
I loved the illustrations in this book. These beautiful illustrations will also help young readers visualize the scenes in this book.
This is a short read but is packed with tons of interesting themes like friendship, compassion, and adventure. And what came as a surprise to me is standing up against bullies.
I recommend this book as a read-aloud for children above 3 years and as a reader for anyone who can read.
I give this book 5/5 stars because if I gave 6/5 stars, it would look silly. I am about to start the next book in the series: I…Am…Wolf!
I found this book’s scenes very hilarious, especially a chase scene in which Dorian chases Chase, Chase chases a poodle, and so on. There are many funny instances like this that will keep the reader interested.
Even though this book is fictional, I learned many interesting and cool facts about this endangered species—the cheetah.
I loved the illustrations in this book. These beautiful illustrations will also help young readers visualize the scenes in this book.
This is a short read but is packed with tons of interesting themes like friendship, compassion, and adventure. And what came as a surprise to me is standing up against bullies.
I recommend this book as a read-aloud for children above 3 years and as a reader for anyone who can read.
I give this book 5/5 stars because if I gave 6/5 stars, it would look silly. I am about to start the next book in the series: I…Am…Wolf!
November 8, 2014
I...AM...CHEETAH! is the first book in The Wild Animal Kids Club series. I'm so glad there will be more exciting adventures to follow. This book is an amazing combination of entertainment and education. It has just enough imaginative kid stuff mixed with interesting facts to keep the reader engrossed while curious and laughing. The importance of learning about endangered species cannot be over-emphasized, but often, books dealing with the subject are boring and preachy. This book is anything but. Stephanie J. Teer has created a page-turner and a wonderfully illustrated book which is very special. Her characters are real-world kids who interact and talk just like current kids. Stephanie's interest in and dedication to the wild animals of the world is quite apparent and her writing is genuinely motivated by this very worthy cause. Put fun characters, good writing, and sincere purpose together and you have a winner. I...AM...CHETTAH! is a winner!
April 30, 2021
“I Am Cheetah” is part of a series of books Stephanie J. Teer is launching to educate children aged 5-10 about endangered species. Sprinkled throughout the story and woven seamlessly with the narrative are specific details about cheetahs. Endnotes provide additional facts. The author realistically addresses bullying. This high-interest book is accessible to young readers who want to read chapter books but are not quite ready for the reading level of many chapter books.
The story features three siblings (Nathan, David, and their little sister, Gabby) and their friends who are wildlife enthusiasts and meet every week for Park Day at Safari Park. The middle brother David has been learning about cheetahs and shares his newly acquired knowledge with the group. The children decide to form a club and learn more about various endangered species. The older brother Nathan has a surprise for his siblings and friends that involves imagination and a touch of magic, allowing the children to interact with cheetah cubs.
“I Am Cheetah” has broad appeal. The characters are diverse in age (5 –11 years), ethnicity, gender, and personality. Characters are doing activities and behaving in ways relatable to the intended reading audience. The author is successful in capturing the authentic voices of children in this age group. The magic necessary to allow the children to interact with the cheetah cubs is complex but does not detract from the story. However, the section of the book where the children are interacting with the cheetah cubs drags on a little long. Dispersed throughout the book are black and white illustrations. These add to the story and help break up the text, making the book less intimidating for early readers. The story would also make a great read-aloud.
The book touches upon several valuable and relevant themes that parents and educators can expound upon and discuss. There is the overarching, critical theme of endangered species. The author also adds a geographic element, as the children discuss their parent’s and grandparent’s travels in Africa.
Also included is an ESL component (emotional and social learning) – bullying. Presenting the target and perpetrator’s points of view, the author creates a successful blueprint to address bullies. Behind every bully, there is usually a reason for their behavior. By listening to their side with empathy and acknowledging their feelings, one can help the bully overcome their behavior.
The author is successful in so many ways – realistic characters, situations, and dialog; important topics (endangered species and bullying); and engaging story. The author is working with a third-grade teacher to create an “Educational/Teacher Guide” for each book. Concrete actions children could take to make a positive impact saving endangered species would be a beneficial addition. I am excited that this is the first in a series of books from this author about endangered species. I AM WOLF has been released and is to be followed by I AM RED PANDA in April.
The story features three siblings (Nathan, David, and their little sister, Gabby) and their friends who are wildlife enthusiasts and meet every week for Park Day at Safari Park. The middle brother David has been learning about cheetahs and shares his newly acquired knowledge with the group. The children decide to form a club and learn more about various endangered species. The older brother Nathan has a surprise for his siblings and friends that involves imagination and a touch of magic, allowing the children to interact with cheetah cubs.
“I Am Cheetah” has broad appeal. The characters are diverse in age (5 –11 years), ethnicity, gender, and personality. Characters are doing activities and behaving in ways relatable to the intended reading audience. The author is successful in capturing the authentic voices of children in this age group. The magic necessary to allow the children to interact with the cheetah cubs is complex but does not detract from the story. However, the section of the book where the children are interacting with the cheetah cubs drags on a little long. Dispersed throughout the book are black and white illustrations. These add to the story and help break up the text, making the book less intimidating for early readers. The story would also make a great read-aloud.
The book touches upon several valuable and relevant themes that parents and educators can expound upon and discuss. There is the overarching, critical theme of endangered species. The author also adds a geographic element, as the children discuss their parent’s and grandparent’s travels in Africa.
Also included is an ESL component (emotional and social learning) – bullying. Presenting the target and perpetrator’s points of view, the author creates a successful blueprint to address bullies. Behind every bully, there is usually a reason for their behavior. By listening to their side with empathy and acknowledging their feelings, one can help the bully overcome their behavior.
The author is successful in so many ways – realistic characters, situations, and dialog; important topics (endangered species and bullying); and engaging story. The author is working with a third-grade teacher to create an “Educational/Teacher Guide” for each book. Concrete actions children could take to make a positive impact saving endangered species would be a beneficial addition. I am excited that this is the first in a series of books from this author about endangered species. I AM WOLF has been released and is to be followed by I AM RED PANDA in April.
November 27, 2014
A group of friends are heading out to the Safari Park for a day of fun. What's not fun is the bully that takes over half the park and won't let anyone play where she and her group are at. That's when the friends form the Wild Animal Kids Club and they have a big secret that will help them with the bully.
This is a really great book for kids who are interested in the endangered cheetah. It is informational and I love that there are facts at the end of the story that teaches more about the animal itself. The pictures are wonderful, the real ones as well as the drawings. And the kids are just every day kids, no special powers except for one thing. They all BELIEVE!
This book would be a great addition to any classroom and also for parents to read to their younger children. I would recommend it to everyone.
Can't wait for the next one. It's about the Wolf.
This is a really great book for kids who are interested in the endangered cheetah. It is informational and I love that there are facts at the end of the story that teaches more about the animal itself. The pictures are wonderful, the real ones as well as the drawings. And the kids are just every day kids, no special powers except for one thing. They all BELIEVE!
This book would be a great addition to any classroom and also for parents to read to their younger children. I would recommend it to everyone.
Can't wait for the next one. It's about the Wolf.
November 18, 2014
Such an adorable story for animal loving children! I highly recommend it!
March 12, 2015
MY SON LOVES THIS BOOK. It's about friends, a bully and endangered cheetah. The pictures are well done drawings. I would recommend to kids that like to go to the ZOO!
April 29, 2021
I am Cheetah is part of a series of books the author is launching to educate children aged 5-10 about endangered species. Sprinkled throughout the story and woven seamlessly with the narrative are specific details about cheetahs. Endnotes provide additional facts. The author realistically addresses bullying. This high-interest book is accessible to young readers who want to read chapter books but are not quite ready for the reading level of many chapter books.
The story features three siblings (Nathan, David, and their little sister, Gabby) and their friends who are wildlife enthusiasts and meet every week for Park Day at Safari Park. The middle brother David has been learning about cheetahs and shares his newly acquired knowledge with the group. The children decide to form a club and learn more about various endangered species. The older brother Nathan has a surprise for his siblings and friends that involves imagination and a touch of magic, allowing the children to interact with cheetah cubs.
I am Cheetah has broad appeal. The characters are diverse in age (5 –11 years), ethnicity, gender, and personality. Characters are doing activities and behaving in ways relatable to the intended reading audience. The author is successful in capturing the authentic voices of children in this age group. The magic necessary to allow the children to interact with the cheetah cubs is complex but does not detract from the story. However, the section of the book where the children are interacting with the cheetah cubs drags on a little long. Dispersed throughout the book are black and white illustrations. These add to the story and help break up the text, making the book less intimidating for early readers. The story would also make a great read-aloud.
The book touches upon several valuable and relevant that parents and educators can expound upon and discuss. There is the overarching, critical theme of endangered species. The author also adds a geographic element, as the children discuss their parent's and grandparent's travels in Africa.
Also included is an ESL component (emotional and social learning) - bullying. Presenting the target and perpetrator's points of view, the author creates a successful blueprint to address bullies. Behind every bully, there is usually a reason for their behavior. By listening to their side with empathy and acknowledging their feelings, one can help the bully overcome their behavior.
The author is successful in so many ways – realistic characters, situations, and dialog; important topics (endangered species and bullying); and engaging story. The author is working with a third-grade teacher to create an "Educational/Teacher Guide" for each book. Concrete actions children could take to make a positive impact saving endangered species would be a beneficial addition. I am excited that this is the first in a series of books from this author about endangered species. I AM WOLF has been released and is to be followed by I AM RED PANDA in April.
The story features three siblings (Nathan, David, and their little sister, Gabby) and their friends who are wildlife enthusiasts and meet every week for Park Day at Safari Park. The middle brother David has been learning about cheetahs and shares his newly acquired knowledge with the group. The children decide to form a club and learn more about various endangered species. The older brother Nathan has a surprise for his siblings and friends that involves imagination and a touch of magic, allowing the children to interact with cheetah cubs.
I am Cheetah has broad appeal. The characters are diverse in age (5 –11 years), ethnicity, gender, and personality. Characters are doing activities and behaving in ways relatable to the intended reading audience. The author is successful in capturing the authentic voices of children in this age group. The magic necessary to allow the children to interact with the cheetah cubs is complex but does not detract from the story. However, the section of the book where the children are interacting with the cheetah cubs drags on a little long. Dispersed throughout the book are black and white illustrations. These add to the story and help break up the text, making the book less intimidating for early readers. The story would also make a great read-aloud.
The book touches upon several valuable and relevant that parents and educators can expound upon and discuss. There is the overarching, critical theme of endangered species. The author also adds a geographic element, as the children discuss their parent's and grandparent's travels in Africa.
Also included is an ESL component (emotional and social learning) - bullying. Presenting the target and perpetrator's points of view, the author creates a successful blueprint to address bullies. Behind every bully, there is usually a reason for their behavior. By listening to their side with empathy and acknowledging their feelings, one can help the bully overcome their behavior.
The author is successful in so many ways – realistic characters, situations, and dialog; important topics (endangered species and bullying); and engaging story. The author is working with a third-grade teacher to create an "Educational/Teacher Guide" for each book. Concrete actions children could take to make a positive impact saving endangered species would be a beneficial addition. I am excited that this is the first in a series of books from this author about endangered species. I AM WOLF has been released and is to be followed by I AM RED PANDA in April.
January 12, 2022
I am Cheetah is the first in a series of Wild Animal Kids Club books. Aimed at lower middle grade readers it’s a quick, fun read filled with a day’s adventure in Safari Park. The club members have a secret which allows them to spend the day playing with three cheetah cubs – cubs who are only visible to club members. Back matter includes a list of cheetah facts to supplement the story. Recommended for young animal lovers everywhere, especially those who want to know more about endangered animals.
September 15, 2017
"This book is like my favorite book. Cheetahs are my favorite animal, and the book is all about having a REAL cheetah friend that no one else can see. That is THE COOLEST!"
-Nicholai, age 6.
This book is really wonderful.
It is great for cheetah facts, imagination, and integrity among playground bullies.
I could not ask for a better book for my cheetah obsessed kiddo-- except maybe for a sequel *hint* *hint*
-Nicholai, age 6.
This book is really wonderful.
It is great for cheetah facts, imagination, and integrity among playground bullies.
I could not ask for a better book for my cheetah obsessed kiddo-- except maybe for a sequel *hint* *hint*
April 29, 2021
‘I…Am…Cheetah’ is a highly imaginative, sweet magical story that will take you on a fun-filled adventure ride. Author Stephanie J. Teer has done a great job of weaving interesting facts about the wild animal—Cheetah into this book, making this an instant favorite for my animal-loving children.
With the themes of friendship, sympathy, and standing against bullies, the books give teachers and parents excellent discussion topics. I can’t recommend this book highly enough.
With the themes of friendship, sympathy, and standing against bullies, the books give teachers and parents excellent discussion topics. I can’t recommend this book highly enough.
March 8, 2024
I liked this book. It is a fanciful tale of how Big Brother Nathan brought endangered animals through a magical portal to play with his brother, sister, and their close friends. In this first book of the series, it was about Cheetah cubs. The cubs were playful, loving, and ran all over the park giving the friends a merry chase as nobody could see the magical cubs but them. During the hours that the cubs were with them before Nathan sent them back, the friends learned some important lessons about friendship and being kind even to bullies.
January 9, 2025
*I received a free copy of this book in a goodreads giveaway**
This was pretty cute, I think most animal loving kids would enjoy the story. I liked the mixing of animals & dealing with a bully- while also showing that SOMETIMES there is something going on in the bully's life that is resulting in the behavior. My biggest issue is that it would have been easy enough to add more diversity to the main characters, especially with the tie in of "African warrior magic".
This was pretty cute, I think most animal loving kids would enjoy the story. I liked the mixing of animals & dealing with a bully- while also showing that SOMETIMES there is something going on in the bully's life that is resulting in the behavior. My biggest issue is that it would have been easy enough to add more diversity to the main characters, especially with the tie in of "African warrior magic".
February 1, 2020
I read this to my students at school. Actually we read it projected on the SmartBoard from my kindle library. My students loved this book. I thought it said it was one in a series, so I'm wondering what is the next book. Where can we find it?
Great story...congratulations:)
L. Lanier
Great story...congratulations:)
L. Lanier
June 30, 2023
Cool fantasy
This is not just a story for kids. I loved it, and am 68 years old. Playing with wild animals is something I have always dreamed of. I would like to see a story with 🐯 Tigers!
This is not just a story for kids. I loved it, and am 68 years old. Playing with wild animals is something I have always dreamed of. I would like to see a story with 🐯 Tigers!
February 1, 2024
This is a wonderful book about 5 friends who visit the Safari Park once a week. They learn about an endangered species as well as ways to deal with challenging situations. This is great for kids who are transitioning from picture books to chapter books!
February 10, 2025
Goodreads giveaway win. This is probably the kind of book I would have enjoyed as a kid, and definitely checked out of the library based on the description. The idea is creative and fun but the execution wasn’t quite there.
October 3, 2025
Very cute story!
This book has a very cute story, along with a meaningful lesson about bullying. It would be a good book for any child that enjoys reading about wild animals.
This book has a very cute story, along with a meaningful lesson about bullying. It would be a good book for any child that enjoys reading about wild animals.
October 7, 2025
Good read
March 18, 2017
140pp. Walt received this one as a birthday gift from his best little buddy. We read it aloud. If your child loves cheetahs, scattelogical (magical baby cheetah poops and farts) humor and magic, you will want to pick this one up. Despite the mediocre (that might be kind) prose, Walt was over the moon. He bawled at the end when the kids had to say goodbye to their cheetah friends. Have I mentioned how much I love my tender, cheetah loving 7-year-old?
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews