Claude - by Emma Bland Smith (Board Book)

About the Book

"A nonfiction picture book about Claude the albino alligator at the California Academy of Sciences"--

Book Synopsis

Claude is the story of the California Academy of Sciences' beloved albino alligator, from his birth in Louisiana to his life spent in his swamp at the Academy.

"Ultimately, Claude's hopeful tale is a celebration of individuality and the joy in finding those who appreciate you for exactly who you are." -- Booklist

Meet Claude--the world-famous albino alligator whose remarkable life story captivated millions and continues to inspire readers of all ages. This beautifully told alligator book follows Claude from his birth to his extraordinary journey west, where he became the beloved mascot of San Francisco's California Academy of Sciences.

Claude hatched looking different from the other alligators--while they were green, he was white. His albinism made survival in the wild impossible, and after time spent alone in a special zoo, his life changed forever. Scientists at the California Academy of Sciences welcomed him into their indoor swamp, where Claude would ultimately spend 17 years as one of the Academy's most cherished residents.

Although not every introduction went as planned, Claude eventually found companionship and acceptance in unexpected ways--and from the millions of visitors who came to see him each year. His story is a powerful reminder that differences are not weaknesses, but strengths to be celebrated.

Claude passed away in December 2025 at the age of 30, leaving behind a legacy of wonder, inclusion, and empathy. His life continues to teach important lessons about wildlife conservation, kindness, and belonging.

Perfect for:

1. Animal lovers and museum fans
2. Classrooms and families seeking an inclusive story
3. Readers looking for an engaging zoology book with real science

Claude includes back matter with answers to FAQs about the famous alligator, including information about albinism in animals.

Review Quotes

"But Claude's story, so deftly captured by Smith and Potter, offers more than information about an albino alligator. As a shared read-aloud between adult and child, the book prompts discussions about adaptation, race, acceptance and the environment."--San Francisco Chronicle

★ "The theme of rejection due to difference is an intrinsic part of Claude's story, so readers develop sympathy and empathy as they also learn facts about albinism and animal behavior."--Kirkus Reviews, Starred

"Ultimately, Claude's hopeful tale is a celebration of individuality and the joy in finding those who appreciate you for exactly who you are."--Booklist

"an ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Pets/Wildlife picture book collections for children"--Midwest Book Review

"In the colorful full-page illustrations, the people who care for and who enjoy Claude are portrayed as providing a cheerful, attentive background presence. They model reactions that would help make this an inspiring addition to First-day school or a Quaker home library."--Friends Journal

About the Author

EMMA BLAND SMITH is a librarian and author of children's fiction and nonfiction. Her picture book debut, Journey: Based on the True Story of OR7, the Most Famous Wolf in the West, won the 2017 Sigurd Olson Nature Writing Award for children's literature and the 2017 Cook Prize, which honors the best STEM picture book published for children aged eight to ten. Many of Emma's books feature real-life animals--wolves, dogs, pigs, and alligators. Emma lives in San Francisco with her family, which includes a dog and a cat (but no alligator). Visit her online at EmmaBSmith.com.

JENNIFER POTTER is an illustrator living in San Francisco. When she's not busy drawing, she loves visiting the city's many parks and museums with her husband. She has visited Claude many times, and is thrilled he agreed to let her draw him.