Oh, No, Said Elephant

Poor Elephant. His friends want to play hide-and-seek, leapfrog, and other games, but his bulk and slowness seem destined to keep him out of the winner's circle. "Oh, no," says Elephant in response to each suggested game. "I'm not good at that." Dressed in a natty bow tie and pants, Elephant makes the most of each situation, and Iranian artist Goldouzian does the same, in wildly inventive paintings that celebrate the animals' chaotic play. Teacups and chairs go flying when Elephant hides under a table during hide-and-seek; "I can see you!" shouts Monkey, soaring in through a window. Later, Zebra attempts to pole vault over the "too tall" Elephant during hopscotch. Some readers may be surprised at how mean Elephant's friends are ("You're foolish!" cries Leopard, tangled up with Elephant in a jump rope), but Benjamin (The Big Splash) subtly emphasizes the value of participation--and that it's possible to have fun even when an activity isn't one's strong suit. Eventually, the tables turn when Elephant suggests playing tug-of-war: Elephant may be big, clumsy, and slow, but he's also strong, in more ways than one. Ages 3-5. (June)

PreS-Gr 2--Elephant, Leopard, Zebra, and Monkey are playing. Though Elephant always wants to join in and tries his best, he has trouble with the proposed games. His size makes concealing himself a challenge during hide-and-seek. He is too tall and heavy for leapfrog and too clumsy for jump rope. His friends let their frustrations show: "'You're useless!' said Monkey. 'You're foolish!' said Leopard. 'You're terrible!' said Zebra." A few other suggested games fare no better until finally Elephant suggests a game--tug-of-war. Here the large, strong elephant is in his element and has an opportunity to reverse the roles and shine among his playmates, defeating them all single-handedly. The engaging art's rich colors, bold shapes, and interesting layouts bring humor to the text and visually exaggerate the physical contrasts among the animals to heighten their difficulties. While the four still have differences to work out before they can truly play well together, they have developed new respect for a wider range of abilities. VERDICT This wild playdate among the animals will show readers a good time and provide a subtle lesson in inclusivity. A great read-aloud choice.--Julie Roach, Cambridge Public Library, MA