For Educators
Stories, Critical Thinking, and Curious Crocodiles
The Stinkwater Escapee is a middle-grade adventure that blends humor and storytelling with modern media literacy. The perspective of the protagonist is told through scent, and he grows like a child through an anti-hero’s journey. Students watch him grow up as he navigates an increasingly strange and confusing human world, and are presented with questions about communication, persuasion, belonging, critical thinking, and the stories people tell themselves.
Whether used as a classroom read-aloud, independent reading selection, or springboard for discussion, the project encourages students to engage thoughtfully with both fiction and the media-rich world around them.
Grades: 3–8
Length: 45–60 minutes (can be negotiated)
Format: In-person or virtual
Author Visit Information
Looking for a quick overview of workshops, presentation topics, grade levels, and booking information?
Classroom Connections
Between both The Stinkwater Escapee and Mudwater Mutters, the project naturally supports discussions around:
- Media literacy and critical thinking
- Storytelling and narrative structure
- Point of view and perspective
- Advertising and persuasion
- Community and belonging
- Reading comprehension and discussion
- Creative writing and worldbuilding
Teachers may choose to use the book independently or alongside selected episodes of Mudwater Mutters.
Why Students Connect With It
Students often respond to:
- Humor and absurd situations
- A fish-out-of-water (or crocodile-out-of-swamp) protagonist
- Memorable characters and strange encounters
- Audio storytelling through the companion podcast
- Opportunities to question assumptions and think critically
Author Visits
H. Jacob Buller is available for school presentations, classroom visits, library events, reading programs, and media literacy discussions.
Presentations can be tailored to different grade levels and interests, including:
- The writing process
- Creating characters and stories
- Media literacy and critical thinking
- Building fictional worlds
- Publishing and creative projects
- Question-and-answer sessions
About the Author
H. Jacob Buller is a Manitoba author, podcaster, and Educational Assistant who works with students in schools and community settings. His presentations combine storytelling, media literacy, creativity, and discussion to help students engage with reading, writing, and critical thinking.
Contact
Interested in booking a presentation, author visit, library program, or media literacy workshop?