Author: Lisa Mantchev
Simon & Schuster 2015
Hardcover, 32 Page Picture Book, Ages 2-6
Today is Pet Club Day, but no elephants are allowed. Now it’s time for a boy and his elephant to show what it means to be a true friend.
Excited for Pet Club Day the boy and his elephant put on their matching red scarves and head for the meeting. When they reach #17 where the meeting is to be held, the elephant is frightened of cracks in the sidewalk and going through the gate – because ‘that’s what friends do – lift each other over the cracks.’ His boy helps him and they arrive at the door only to find a sign that reads “Strictly No Elephants” accompanied by scowling faces at the windows. Sadly they make their way down the sidewalk and the elephant helps the boy by ignoring the cracks in the sidewalk because ‘that’s what friends do – brave the scary things for you.’ Walking on they meet a girl with a skunk. She’s not allowed in the Pet Club either so the two of them start their own club where everybody is welcome. Soon children with all sorts of strange pets join them in the park, because that’s what friends do, ‘never leave anyone behind.’
This book is particularly meaningful. It reaches beyond a mere friendship story, and has a subtle message of inclusion and helping others. It will appeal to a span of age groups with colorful illustrations. It’s a quiet book, sweet and genuine and peculiarly enough, the boy and the elephant guide us through the story without having names! This reviewer took particular note of the pet bat on a string and the narwhal in the fish bowl! Though this book was published in 2015 it’s still a strong seller which speaks to the longevity of the message.
Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev gets 5 stars from this reviewer.