Poppet

A young elephant named Poppet learns to confront his fears of mice through friendship with Momo, a clever little mouse, in the heartwarming tale of Poppet.

In Poppet, a charming tale unfolds around a young African elephant named Poppet. From the moment he enters the world, his mother instills in him a cautionary warning about mice, claiming they have a mischievous tendency to run up elephants' trunks. This peculiar fear sets the stage for Poppet's imaginative journey, as he curiously inquires with various animals he encounters, trying to determine which of them might be a mouse. His innocent quest takes a surprising turn when one of the creatures he questions responds affirmatively, sending Poppet into a panic.

As the story progresses, Poppet's fear begins to wane when he meets Momo, a clever little mouse who challenges the notion that mice are a threat. Momo reassures Poppet that the tales he has heard are merely old wives' tales, and through their budding friendship, Poppet learns to confront his fears. The bond between the two unlikely friends grows, showcasing themes of courage and understanding that transcend their differences. Despite initial reservations, Poppet's mother ultimately warms to Momo, impressed by the mouse's persuasive charm.

Shortlisted for the 2000 Children's Book Award in category 2, Poppet is a delightful narrative that encourages young readers to question their fears and embrace friendship in unexpected places. The story is not just about an elephant and a mouse; it’s about overcoming prejudice and finding common ground in a diverse world.