Watch Out for the Elephants!

REVIEWED BY: Wayne S. Walker In 1945, when racial tensions were still fairly high in the United States, James Todd became only the eleventh African-American man accepted into the United States Foreign Service and, with his wife of one year Norma, began a career with the State Department that spanned 35 years, ending with his retirement in 1980. Two daughters, the authors of this book, were born to the Todds, and the book chronicles the family's experiences while living in the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Southern Asia. Angela and Ann do not shrink away from describing the prejudice that their family sometimes encountered, both at home and in the field, but that is not the focus of the book. In fact, they say, "The truth of the matter is that Mom and Dad formed many lasting friendships over the years with numerous white American who were kind, decent, honest, and not racist at all." Rather, they use everything that happened to them to encourage young people to be thankful for their blessings, turn life's challenges into learning experiences, approach life with a sense of humor, and enjoy the moment. This delightful, upbeat book is the daughters' testament to how their parents raised them to "count your blessings" and find "teachable moments" in everyday events of life. I especially liked the attitude expressed in the statement on the back of the book, "If our parents could do it as black Americans living abroad in 1945, you can achieve anything you want to in the 21st century and beyond!" In addition to several entries from Mr. Todd's journals and numerous black and white photographs throughout the text, there are 24 pages of full-color pictures in the back. This highly enjoyable book would make a really good source material to accompany a study of world history and geography during the mid-twentieth century. Since it is written especially for young people, there are elementary and middle school teachers guides available.

This book is informative, exciting and quite a lovely recount of childhood memories. My granddaughter actually met Ms Todd. She came to our school as a substitute teacher. When Kacee told me of the experience and how "neat" this teacher was, I knew we had to find that book. I am glad we did! Although Kacee is 9 years old, she is an avid and literate reader...she still needed some help. All and all, this book was worth the price and worth the read. I recommend it to all who want an uplifting and inspirational story. Sincerely, Kathy Roth

Angela and Ann Todd have weaved together a wonderful tale of their family's travels during the 35 years their father worked as a diplomat with the Foreign Service (US State Department). The sisters were born into a lifestyle where they knew nothing but moving from country to country and learning the language and customs wherever they went. Their story is all the more inspiring because it was lived out from 1945 to 1980 amid the social and political climate that impacted all US citizens -- no matter where they lived during those decades. Remember Ann and Angela's family adventures and solo experiences (at camp and boarding school at times) happened as technology was growing too. It will be hard for today's youngsters to imagine not being able to communicate with family members via e-mail and traveling by ship. The book will inspire the young to consider diplomatic careers, embrace foreign languages and learn geography. (Names of countries changed a lot too during their chronicle.) Older readers will be inspired by Angela and Ann's parents' (James and Norma) commitment to their marriage, children and the way they caused Angela and Ann to feel at home wherever they were. They used every move as a chance for the four of them to learn and serve. The journey their daughters share is delightful.