Little Big Ears: The Story of Ely

Cynthia Moss' "Little Big Ears" is an endearing story of the struggles of Echo's robust young calf during his first year. It is an excellent portrayal of one little guy who beats all odds from the first few traumatic days of his life. An uplifting "tail" of elephant behavior that children can learn from, love and appreciate. I've recommended "Little Big Ears" to various elementary school teachers when asked what would be a good book about elephants to read and show pictures to their students. All have reported back that this book was thorougly enjoyed by their students. One drawback was the reluctancy of most teachers to show a picture of young Ely eating elephant dung (which is natural behavior for young calves). That is the only possibly negative thing teachers have told me when they used this book in the classroom. Myself, I believe it is necessary to show life as it is, the picture was not that offensive to me. Excellent plot and easy to follow and understand. Great photography by Colbeck.