THE ELEPHANT AND THE SEA, by Ed Vere, Doubleday Books for Young Readers, May 7, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 3-7)
Follow the story of a brave elephant who reaches for his dreams in The Elephant and the Sea, by Ed Vere.
“There is only one thing I want to do . . . So I will do it!”
Gabriel the elephant dreams of being part of the lifeboat crew in his seaside town, but he is too young, and too little. But soon, Gabriel grows up and he is too . . . BIG! Disappointed but undaunted, Gabriel makes a plan. He hammers and chops, saws and sands, and builds his very own boat.
One night, a great storm hits, and it’s Gabriel’s time to shine, pulling his oars alone against the crashing waves to save a crew in peril. —Synopsis provided by Doubleday Books for Young Readers
Gabriel is a charming character — both when he’s young and old. Ed Vere’s gentle tale of an elephant who dreams big and makes it happen is brilliantly realized through words and illustrations. He perfectly captures the excitement and disappointment of trying to accomplish something. Parents will immediately see their own children in Gabriel, and kids will easily relate.
Vere’s text is full of energy, making the book a joy to read aloud. And Vere’s illustrations are so full of movement and energy, it’s hard not to get excited. of particular note is Vere’s use of color and blank space through which he adds emphasis and emotion. Kids and their parents will love The Elephant and the Sea.
About Ed Vere:
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