When an Elephant Falls in Love
What’s inside...
From the bestselling author of I Didn't Do My Homework Because... comes an irresistible meditation on the quest for connection. When an elephant falls in love, he does many foolish things. He hides when the elephant-object of his affection is around. He writes dozens of letters that he will never send. And he tries to be healthy, but ends up finishing the cheesecake. This soulful book is at once relatable and revealing, a reminder that love is worth striving for, and that the very best things in life will come to those who wait.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
26 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the elephant feels when he falls in love? Can you describe those feelings?
Why do you think the elephant does special things when he is in love?
How do you think the story would change if the elephant shared his feelings with the one he loves?
What are some ways you show someone you care about them?
Do you think the elephant's actions show love? Why or why not?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about and express their feelings by relating to the elephant's emotions.
Discuss the concept of love and caring by comparing the elephant’s actions to real-life scenarios they might encounter.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings to the story based on different choices the elephant could make, fostering creative thinking.
Use examples from the book to discuss the importance of expressing feelings and how it can affect relationships with others.
Encourage your child to think of other ways people or animals might show love, reinforcing empathy and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of patience
Explanation: The story showcases an elephant who patiently waits after expressing his love, demonstrating the value of patience in relationships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of waiting and understanding timescales in their interactions with friends and family, fostering healthier relationships.
Example Lesson: Showing kindness and thoughtfulness
Explanation: The elephant displays acts of kindness such as trying to make himself better and giving flowers, which exemplifies compassionate behavior.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to express kindness through small gestures, improving empathy and social connections.
Example Lesson: Dealing with emotions
Explanation: Throughout the book, the elephant experiences various emotions, which are portrayed sensitively, teaching children about emotional expression.
Real-World Application: This helps children identify and discuss their own emotions more openly and constructively with others.
Example Lesson: Effects of love on behavior
Explanation: The elephant’s actions are influenced by his feelings of love, providing insight into how emotions can lead to changes in behavior.
Real-World Application: Children understand that their feelings can impact their actions, promoting self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: The value of self-improvement
Explanation: As the elephant attempts to become a better version of himself for someone else, the story highlights personal growth.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to always strive to improve themselves, fostering a mindset of personal development and self-care.