Ninita's Big World

Written by Sarah Glenn Marsh · Illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman

A deaf pygmy marmoset finds friendship and a forever home.

4.0 Goodreads · 213 ratings

32 pages· ~620L

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Bookroo's summary

Meet Ninita, a deaf pygmy marmoset who defies the odds. Abandoned and alone, she finds a new life with the RSCF and a friend in Mr. Big. Together, they explore, play, and discover the joys of companionship. This heartwarming tale introduces young readers to themes of disability, biodiversity, and conservation, all through the adventures of a tiny monkey who became a YouTube sensation. Will Ninita's story inspire a new appreciation for wildlife and the bonds that transcend differences?

From the publisher

“The heart-tugging true story of how YouTube star Ninita—a deaf, orphaned pygmy marmoset (the smallest type of monkey)—found family, friendship, and a forever home! Illustrated in full color.

Ninita is the only known deaf pygmy marmoset in the world, but that doesn’t stop her from making friends and chasing her next adventure! Abandoned by her parents and rescued by the RSCF, this tiny, curious monkey loves exploring her habitat. And when she meets Mr. Big—another pygmy marmoset—she has finally found a friend who likes to eat, climb, and play as much as she does. A YouTube celebrity, Ninita’s videos have been viewed nearly 2 million times! “

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 32
Reading age: 4–8
Audience: Picture
Lexile: ~620L

Themes & topics

Books about animals Books about apes and monkeys Books about science Books about deafness Books about disabilities

Good to know

Stories behind the story

What would you say is the primary message of Ninita's Big World?

Ninita finds her own special ways to relate to the world and enjoy her life; she doesn't let her deafness prevent her from living life to the fullest. Her differences are part of what make her great.

Did a particular person/animal inspire the creation of Ninita?

This book was inspired by the life of the real Ninita, the world's only known deaf pygmy marmoset, who lives at the Rare Species Conservatory in Florida. Look for more on their amazing work at their website: www.rarespecies.org

What is your favorite thing about Ninita?

Ninita inspires me! Like Ninita, I also have a disability (Type 1 diabetes), and this can make life a challenge some days, but Ninita reminds me to take things at my own pace, be joyful, and find beauty everywhere.

What part of creating this book did you most enjoy?

My favorite part about writing this book was getting to know the incredible staff of the Rare Species Conservatory through our talks about Ninita; this publishing experience culminated in my going to visit Rare Species and meeting Ninita, who loved my hair and jumped up to style it the moment she saw me! I feel so lucky to have spent time with her and to have received her trust and attention!

What readers & critics say

Reviews

“An excellent book for reading aloud and teaching children about pygmy marmosets and conservation efforts.”

School Library Journal

Critic

“Though readers may not gain a clear sense of Ninita’s transition from the sanctuary to domestic life, Marsh’s author’s note includes valuable context.”

Publisher's Weekly

Critic

“A lively if highly anthropomorphizing text and endearing digitally created illustrations combine to demonstrate how even the smallest creatures can “climb as high” and “jump just as fast” as their peers in a world that supports their efforts.”

Kirkus

Critic

The author