The Journey Down the Jaguar River

Kids’ Stories Book

By: Ayokunle Mathew Akinbi

Narrated by: Gwen Alexander

Ben has always loved the stories his Grandpa Silas told about the mysterious Jaguar River. But his most prized possession is his grandpa's map—a crinkled, faded piece of paper showing the long, winding river, marked with a single, tiny, muddy paw print.

One sunny morning, Ben's scruffy, three-legged dog, Pip, nudges the map with his wet nose, leaving a fresh paw print right beside the old one. For Ben, it's a sign. The river is calling.

With a heart full of courage and a basket of sweet plantain cakes from Mama Luna, Ben and Pip climb into their small blue canoe and say goodbye to their village. Their great adventure has begun!

But the jungle is full of secrets. Ben and Pip must navigate whispering mangrove tunnels, race down foaming river rapids, and find their way out of a maze of giant lily pads. Every sound is a new mystery—from the booming echo of the howler monkeys to the soft, rumbling call of a creature hidden in the shadows.

Along the way, they'll meet grumpy caimans, talk to colorful toucans, and even get help from a sleepy sloth. But when a flash of spotted fur appears through the leaves, Ben wonders if he is ready for the river's biggest secrets. Following the jaguar's call, Ben and Pip must solve the River Spirit's riddle and find the ancient stone ruins hidden deep in the jungle.

What is the true treasure at the end of the Jaguar River? And what secret has Grandpa Silas's map been holding all along?

Join Ben and Pip on a thrilling, sensory-filled adventure where friendships are found in the wild, and the bravest explorers are the ones who follow their hearts.

©2025 Ayokunle Mathew Akinbi (P)2025 Ayokunle Mathew Akinbi