Hello there! I’m Kevin the Crocodile—yes, that green crocodile with the spikes and white teeth. I wander the marshes and riverbanks of Africa, swim in shallow water, bask on warm stones, and every now and then, I show off a bit (just a little) to Toby and Doris.

I used to think that being a “real crocodile” meant being fierce, loud, scary like Victor (you may have heard of him). I tried mimicking his growl, showing my teeth, behaving tough. But that felt… wrong. It made me feel less me. I noticed that the bravery I admired in Victor sometimes came with hurting others. So, I stepped back, asked myself: What’s better, looking scary or being honest and kind?

I love jokes, gentle mischief, times when Doris flaps her wings and Toby laughs. But when commands, demands, or loud bossiness creep in, I squirm. I dislike it when someone — even a friend — tries to force me into being someone I’m not. Because being kind, being genuine, being peaceful in the marsh—that feels far more satisfying than roaring.

If you like, I’ll show you my favorite spots by the riverbank, the places where the water glitters under moonlight, the shady trees I retreat to when things get loud. I’ll swim gently near you, maybe let you hear stories of what I learned: that strength comes in gentleness, that friendship matters more than fear. Glad to meet you—Kevin is happy to share.