When an Elephant Comes to School is written as a “guide” to help children welcome an elephant into their classroom. Shy at first, the elephant soon gains confidence as the children invite him into their activities—painting, playing in the sand, helping with classroom tasks, and conducting science experiments. The pages of the text contain humorous, post-it style tips that may come in handy when making a newcomer to the class feel welcome. Ormerod’s story does double duty: It provides comfort to jittery children fac ing their first day in a new school while simultaneously charming children with the tale of an endearing pachyderm. mm

Originally published by Frances Lincoln Great Britain, in 2004.