BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) – ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Seven angry elephants turn violent because they have been hunted and bullied, so a man named Laurence and his wife Francoise offer them shelter in a sanctuary known as Thula Thula. When the elephants first arrive, they are still angry and wreak havoc, but over time Laurence bonds with the elephants and they learn to live safely in the sanctuary. As the elephants get more comfortable, they expand their living space and move away from Laurence, coming back for visits sometimes. When Laurence passes away the seven elephants come to the house on the day of his passing and morn with Francoise.
Elephants are so endearing, but this touching story of two people’s willingness to provide a safe haven for these beautiful, troubled animals gives a glimpse into the elephants’ souls. The illustrations are charming, and the text is simple and to the point, so it is easy to understand. The ending is sad, when Laurence passes away, and it made me want to cry, but it is also amazing the bond the elephants had with him.
Reviewer, C. Peterson
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