Humans have long been aware that they do not inhabit the planet alone but instead share it with legions of species of plants, insects, and animals, contributing to the rich biodiversity of any region of the world. Drawing on her personal experience growing up on an animal preserve in Africa, Lauren St. John imbues The White Giraffe with lush descriptions of the natural world to highlight humans’ interdependence on animals and raise awareness for wildlife conservation. Sawubona serves as an example of the diverse wildlife in the South African bush, but the existence of a preserve and animal sanctuary highlights the need for actively protecting animals from the devastating impact of poaching. For Martine Allen, animals symbolize connection, companionship, and the opportunity to express her gift of healing. The animal motif reaches its most intense distillation in Jemmy, the elusive, rare white giraffe, for he symbolizes the fragility of nature and represents the need for humans to protect rare and endangered species. Jemmy, who was orphaned after poachers killed his parents, also symbolizes the strength and resilience of surviving tragedy and trauma.

Martine struggles to find her place in South Africa as she feels her grandmother doesn’t want her, and her classmates at school are judgmental and unkind.