Elmer's Christmas by David McKee

It's two days before Christmas Eve, the night Papa Red visits, and the young elephants are very excited. They choose a tree to decorate and prepare the presents for Papa Red to collect during the night to take to those who need them. But this year Elmer has a special treat in store for the young elephants, if they can keep quiet and out of sight...

How well I remember shouting "BOO" and startling my 1989 Kindy class as I shared the new release about a patchwork elephant with its brightly coloured cover and intriguing story.  And how many times I have done that since with that original story and all its sequels since then.  I've written units of work that have explored everything from the elephants of Africa and Asia to the craft of patchwork, have a row of soft-toy Elmers looking over my shoulder and may even have crafted an Elmer-inspired storybook cushion or two.  Such is the popularity of this character that he has his own website, his own range of merchandise, even his own dedicated day and there would be few who don't recognise him instantly, and now, a new generation can share in his adventures with this newly released board book version.  

With its important message about being generous towards others that don't have as much as we do, Elmer explains, "this is the season for giving." this is a gift that keeps on giving to our little ones as they discover and delight in not only sharing all Elmer's other adventures but also the magic of books and the joy of reading.

Themes: Elephants, Christmas.

Barbara Braxton