The Elephant and the Sea
A tale of dreams, courage, and unexpected heroes
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Penguin Random House Children's UK
Published:2nd May '24
Should be back in stock very soon
In The Elephant and the Sea, a young elephant named Gabriel dreams of joining the lifeboat crew, proving that dreams can overcome obstacles.
In The Elephant and the Sea, award-winning author-illustrator Ed Vere weaves a touching narrative about dreams and determination. The story centers around Gabriel, a young elephant who lives in a quaint village by the sea. Gabriel possesses a singular aspiration: to join the local lifeboat crew. His heart is set on helping those in distress at sea, bravely navigating the waters to save lives. However, Gabriel faces a significant challenge—his size makes it impossible for him to fit into a lifeboat, leaving him feeling helpless and out of place in a world where he longs to belong.
As the tale unfolds, readers witness Gabriel's unwavering spirit and resilience. Despite the obstacles, he continues to dream big, embodying the essence of courage and hope. One fateful day, a storm brews, and the lifeboat crew finds themselves in dire straits. In this moment of crisis, it becomes clear that Gabriel's size, which once seemed like a limitation, may actually be the key to saving the day. His determination shines through as he steps up to help, proving that true bravery comes in many forms.
The Elephant and the Sea is not just a story about an elephant and a lifeboat; it is a celebration of purpose, bravery, and the pursuit of dreams. With charming illustrations and a heartfelt message, this book resonates with readers of all ages, encouraging them to chase their aspirations, no matter the odds.
By turns thrilling and warmly reassuring, this story demonstrates that resolve—and inclusion—wins out; readers will cheer for Gabriel all the way... Vere brings the Cornish setting to life beautifully. Gabriel cuts an endearing figure in the lively illustrations, rendered in a limited palette of soft oranges, grays, and blues. A charming winner about purpose, bravery, and making one’s dreams come true. * Kirkus - starred review *
This affectionately swashbuckling work ... is not a tale of injustice redressed: Gabriel is so gentle, and the lifeboat crew so grateful, that only joy lingers as the elephant finds a way to do what he loves, and comes away with marvelous stories to tell. * Publishers Weekly - starred review *
Vere’s crisp text adeptly relies on repetition and sporadic punctuated rhythm to add intrigue to a tried-and-true narrative structure... Gabriel’s bright eyes, blue and yellow sailor’s costume, and feline companion make for a unique and endearing protagonist. This is an excellent addition to any maritime-themed storytime, with room for deeper exploration of the themes of vocation and heroism—or simply use this as a lead-in to a chorus of kid-friendly sea shanties. * The Bulletin for the Center of Children's Books *
The atmospheric illustrations have layers and textures, creating a realistic backdrop juxtaposed with animal characters. * Booklist *
By turns thrilling and warmly reassuring, this story demonstrates that resolve—and inclusion—wins out; readers will cheer for Gabriel all the way... Vere brings the Cornish setting to life beautifully. Gabriel cuts an endearing figure in the lively illustrations, rendered in a limited palette of soft oranges, grays, and blues. A charming winner about purpose, bravery, and making one’s dreams come true. * Kirkus - starred review *
This affectionately swashbuckling work ... is not a tale of injustice redressed: Gabriel is so gentle, and the lifeboat crew so grateful, that only joy lingers as the elephant finds a way to do what he loves, and comes away with marvelous stories to tell. * Publishers Weekly - starred review *
Vere’s crisp text adeptly relies on repetition and sporadic punctuated rhythm to add intrigue to a tried-and-true narrative structure... Gabriel’s bright eyes, blue and yellow sailor’s costume, and feline companion make for a unique and endearing protagonist. This is an excellent addition to any maritime-themed storytime, with room for deeper exploration of the themes of vocation and heroism—or simply use this as a lead-in to a chorus of kid-friendly sea shanties. * The Bulletin for the Center of Children's Books *
The atmospheric illustrations have layers and textures, creating a realistic backdrop juxtaposed with animal characters. * Booklist *
ISBN: 9780141376400
Dimensions: 278mm x 212mm x 4mm
Weight: 176g
32 pages