 | Secret elephant : inspired by a true story of friendship Author: Rankin, Ellan | |
| Price: $14.24 | ||
Summary:
Inspired by a true story, a remarkable friendship between a baby elephant and her keeper shows that kindness is never forgotten.
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (03/01/24)
School Library Journal (04/01/24)
Booklist (02/01/24)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 02/01/2024 In a picture book based on events during WWII, an elephant looks back on her wartime experiences as a baby in Belfast, Northern Ireland. She was so terrified by the airplanes, loud explosions, and bright lights during nighttime bombings that her keeper secretly spent her nights at the zoo, comforting her. The keeper moved the elephant into her home and cared for her there, but neighbors informed the zoo and the elephant had to return. Her kind keeper stayed with her there each night until the war ended. Later she retired. The book concludes years later with the elephant remembering her special friend and hoping that she will return for a visit. The first-person narrative works well, giving enough detail to explain why the elephant was frightened, while focusing on the comfort that her companion provided. The back matter provides additional information about the story’s origin. In her first book as writer and illustrator, Rankin offers an unusual animal story and illustrates it with expressive, richly colorful paintings. A memorable story of friendship. - Copyright 2024 Booklist.
