Supriya's Banter
Elephants Walk Together
Hardcover–Picture Book
Author- Cheryl Lawton Malone
Illustrator-Bistra Masseva
Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company
Language: English
Hardcover: 32 pages
Reading age: 4 – 7 years
Grade level: Preschool – 3
Theme- animals, family, Wildlife conservation, friendship
Rating 4/5
Some picture books hide a profound, humane message in their pages that appeals not only to the child’s sensibilities but leaves its impact on the parent reading it, too. This is one of those heartwarming, remarkable books.
Inspired by a true story of two Asian elephants—Gypsy and Wanda, captured as calves by a circus and forced to perform under inhumane conditions, this story tugs at your heart. Here, the two elephants are called Precious and Baba.
These two elephants meet after years of suffering and struggles in this story of friendship transcending borders of time and place. They find healing and comfort in their shared comradery and rich childhood memories in their autumnal years.
The artwork and the text never get too emotional or ghastly yet brilliantly showcases the callous human attitude and trials faced by defenseless creatures. The text relies on the illustrations to depict the aging animals, grim landscape, and unforgiving conditions, and Masseva accomplishes it with elan.
The ending is soul-stirring and leaves you with a smile on your face.
Recommended.
This is one of those gentle and sensitive books that nudge the child to respect wildlife and value the boundaries set by Mother Nature. It may remind us as parents to not indulge in circuses and zoos that abuse animals for monetary gains.
A brilliant book to introduce the importance of wildlife sanctuaries. An excellent author’s note with references about elephants and animal welfare is a welcome extension.
A thinking-book! Can’t recommend it enough!
Positive Message
Introduction of new concepts and ideas
Vibrant illustrations
This is one of those gentle and sensitive books that nudge the child to respect wildlife and value the boundaries set by Mother Nature. It may remind us as parents to not indulge in circuses and zoos that abuse animals for monetary gains. A brilliant book to introduce the importance of wildlife sanctuaries. An excellent author’s note with references about elephants and animal welfare is a welcome extension. A thinking-book! Can’t recommend it enough!
