Recommended Ages: 2 - 7 years
The trouble with having a tiny elephant for a pet is... you never quite fit in. One little boy discovers the joys and troubles of having a tiny elephant in a world where most people’s pets are cats, birds and puppies. This is a story about care, the value of welcoming others, and the joy of friendship. When children in the neighborhood create a Pet Club, not everyone is allowed in. In fact, there is a sign that reads, “Strictly No Elephants.” Feeling left out and sad the boy and his pet head back home, stumbling upon another child who has been excluded with a pet skunk. The two spark up a friendship and plan to create their own club where everyone is welcome.
This story is sweet, simple and deep, with so many messages sprinkled in the book. Just a few life lessons taught are examples of bravery, caring for others, standing up for friends, and welcoming others. It reads like a poem and when partnered with the lovely illustrations, you will want to linger on each page to process the beauty. Strictly No Elephants is a picture book best for ages 2-7. The story ends with the idea of friendship and can lead to great discussions with your child about what they think being a good friend is, who their friends are, and if there is anyone in their life who could use a friend. You can also talk about what kind of pet they would want to have, if having a tiny elephant is a thing why not a penguin? Lisa Mantchev also provides free downloads for Pet Club Invitations or coloring pages you can print off as additional material to engage in the storytelling.
Amanda is a preschool teacher, mother and avid Central Park picnicker. She values community and is an advocate for families in the foster care system. One day she hopes to publish a children's book of her own. In the meantime, you can follow her Instagram, Enchanted Literacy, which encourages imagination and passion for reading.
