Florence, the Acrobat and the Elephant
illustrations by
What’s inside...
In 'Florence, the Acrobat and the Elephant,' author Noah Leatherland transports readers into the enchanting world of the circus through the eyes of young Florence. With her trusty elephant companion, Florence learns the ropes of being an acrobat, developing her balance, focus, and courage. This delightful tale not only captivates children's imaginations but also encourages them to discover their own strengths and persevere through challenges. As Florence masters each acrobatic trick, readers see the value of practice and determination. The book is a fantastic tool for parents and educators to use in discussing themes of dedication, friendship, and self-confidence.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Florence's relationship with the elephant change throughout the story?
What do you think the circus symbolizes in Florence's life?
Why do you think Florence chose to be an acrobat?
How do you feel when you try something new, like Florence trying new acrobat tricks?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about the characters' feelings and motivations.
Relate the story to your child's own experiences with trying new activities or making friends.
Highlight the importance of perseverance and courage, as demonstrated by Florence throughout the book.
Ask your child to imagine their own ending to the story or what other adventures Florence could have.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Florence learns to understand and share the feelings of the elephant, who is different from her in many ways.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy by considering the feelings of their peers who may come from diverse backgrounds or have different experiences.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Florence shows bravery when she stands up for the elephant against those who mock or underestimate him.
Real-World Application: Kids can embrace courage by standing up for themselves and others in the face of bullying or adversity.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The story highlights how Florence and the elephant work together to perform their act, despite initial difficulties.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to collaborate with others to achieve common goals, whether in school projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite challenges, Florence and the elephant continue to practice their routine until they succeed.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persistence and hard work in mastering new skills or overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Inclusivity
Explanation: Florence accepts the elephant for who he is, promoting a message of acceptance and inclusion.
Real-World Application: Kids are taught to embrace and celebrate differences, fostering a more inclusive environment at school and in their communities.