"When you're the littlest elephant, the
others teach you how to play and what
to eat and when to sleep.
But they also teach you what to fear.
I learned that some humans like
tusks more than they like elephants."
Ruby is the littlest elephant in the sanctuary where she lives with her loving family. She likes being an elephant; she is not so keen on tusks. All who love her are making preparations for her Tuskday, a time to celebrate growing up and to think back on her past. Ruby has many sad memories to recall; at the same time, her herd loves her dearly and help her realize that growing up is not meant to be scary. They remind her that remembering bad times often helps to really appreciate the good ones.
For the first time, younger readers have a chance to meet Ruby in a wonderfully illustrated picture book. They may know her from The One and Only Ivan (2012) which is a much longer story. Here Ruby tells her own story in a shorter version, which allows for discussion. Ruby's fears are based on memories and the fact that she is growing up. Ms. Judge's images are remarkable as she captures the emotions, the scenes of elephant life, and the light that Ruby comes to appreciate following hard times. There is a lot to see and learn from taking a very close look at each spread.
Bob and Ivan remain her pals as they, too, have a home at the sanctuary. It's just lovely for fans of the novel series to see them again. Sad memories or happy ones, being surrounded with love from her friends and every member of her herd helps Ruby recognize that 'the darkness reminds us to love the light', a sentiment shared with her by her Aunt Akello, the oldest and wisest of all her aunts.
It's beautifully written story with truly outstanding artwork that evokes admiration for a little elephant who learns all she can from those who love her.
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