Elephant's Story
on Goodreads (226)
What’s inside...
The day Gracie loses her favorite book, Elephant finds it and accidentally inhales the words, causing them to jumble up. Despite efforts by Elephant and his friends, they can't put the words back together correctly. Each animal interprets the letters differently, using them for their own amusement. Fortunately, Gracie arrives, restores the original text, and adds her own story of a girl who befriends an elephant at the zoo.
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the elephant felt when it lost its way? Can you relate to any of those feelings?
What are some ways the other animals in the book helped the elephant? How can we help others who feel lost or sad?
Why do you think the author chose an elephant as the main character? What qualities do elephants have that might be important in this story?
What role do friends play in the elephant’s journey? Can you think of a time when a friend helped you like that?
If you were part of the story, what would you have done differently to help the elephant?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the elephant’s situation by asking how they might feel in a similar situation.
Discuss the importance of community and helping others, drawing parallels between the animals' actions in the book and real-life scenarios.
Explore the characteristics of elephants, like their memory and intelligence, and how these traits can be metaphorically applied in the story.
Highlight the value of friendship and teamwork as depicted in the story, and relate it to your child’s personal experiences.
Ask your child what they would do in the characters' shoes, fostering empathy and creative problem-solving skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Elephant's Story', the elephant demonstrates empathy by helping other animals in trouble. This is shown when the elephant takes time to understand the problems faced by his friends and offers solutions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to observe the feelings and struggles of others and think of ways to help, fostering a caring and supportive environment both at school and at home.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: The story highlights how the elephant and his friends work together to solve challenges. This collective effort teaches the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in group activities in both academic and play settings, learning to cooperate and achieve common goals with peers.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: Throughout the book, the elephant faces several fears but learns to overcome them. This encourages children to be brave and face their own fears.
Real-World Application: This lesson is vital for children to try new things and step out of their comfort zones, whether it’s trying out for a school play, joining a new sports team, or speaking up in class.
Example Lesson: Creativity in Problem Solving
Explanation: Elephant uses creative methods to solve problems he and his friends encounter. This shows children that sometimes unconventional thinking is needed to resolve issues.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to think creatively to come up with unique solutions to problems, enhancing their critical thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Care
Explanation: The elephant demonstrates responsibility by taking care of his friends and their environment, ensuring everyone is safe and happy.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being responsible for their actions and taking care of their surroundings, which is essential for personal development and social interaction.