The Elephants Come Home: A True Story of Seven Elephants, Two People, and One Extraordinary Friendship, written by Kim Tomsic and illustrated by Hadley Hooper. Chronicle Books, Raincoast. 2021. $24.99 ages 6 and up

"They've been BULLIED and HUNTED," 
the lady says. "Now they roar at the rangers
and crush our fences. Folks are frightened 
the herd might stampede through town. The 
village chief says it's a matter of safety - the 
herd must leave or be shot."

Lawrence has never taken care of elephants, 
but he says, yes, they may come to Thula Thula."

Thula Thula is a wildlife refuge covering 11,00 acres in the African bush. There is no hunting there, and plenty of space for animals of all kinds to roam, swim, and live safely. Lawrence and Francoise love each other, and taking care of the many animals that call Thula Thula home. Because of Lawrence's great love for all animals, people often call asking for help to solve big problems. That is the case with a herd of enraged elephants. 

Having no experience with elephants, Lawrence still agrees to give it a try. A corral is built, fencing is repaired, and new signs are posted reminding all that there is no hunting on Thula Thula. The arrival of the seven elephants does not go well. On the first night, they break free from the corral, the outer fencing, and from the safety that Thula Thula affords them. Lawrence calls for help; finally, a helicopter search finds them. Now, Lawrence must try to convince the herd to return to sanctuary. Eventually, they do turn back. 

Lawrence makes a promise to Nana, their matriarch. 

"But if you rest, I'll take care of you. 
I will live with you by day and camp 
with you by night. I will stay with you, 
and you will not be alone."

Lawrence sings and talks with them, day and night. Soon, they are HAPPY! Once settled, the elephants are allowed to range Thula Thula without restriction. They are HOME. Lawrence and the elephants form a very special bond. As years go by, the elephants live further from the farmhouse, coming only occasionally for a visit. Their bond remains strong. When Lawrence dies, the elephants know. They trek back to the farmhouse, where they spend time with Francoise in her grief. 

"The elephants live with Francoise
by day and camp with her by night. 

They stay with her, and she is not alone."

Except to mention that Hadley Hooper's artwork makes the reader feel present in the African bush, and offers all of its beauty in the colors used to create a realistic and memorable backdrop for this incredible story, there is nothing else to say. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tjp_nPRtCLo

Visit thulathula.com to learn more.