"I didn't want to look behind me.
I already knew what the major
general was looking at. The
elephant. Or maybe the wizzygig
intercom system that featured a
cuckoo clock? Or the barometer
that told the weather with real
clouds and sunshine in a glass box?"
Not many families would consider bringing home an elephant as a pet, would they? Yet, that is exactly what Sarah and her distracted dad do when they shop for groceries one day. It's half price, and it needs a home. Sarah cannot resist; her father agrees that a pet might be exactly what his daughter needs. Her mother is rarely home, and often has no time for Sarah when she is. She is always busy planning and organizing.
Getting an elephant into an upstairs apartment is no easy task. It is tough to get Mr. Smith (said elephant) in the door, then up the stairs, and finally through another door without a lot of mess and mayhem. Nothing is safe from his bulk. When he proves allergic to the neighbor's cat, and is petrified of a tiny mouse, Sarah realizes that they have some issues to figure out. Many of Sarah's plans go awry.
Mr. Smith is good at a few things. He loves flowers and is gifted at floral arranging. He is also what Sarah needs; he is a friend and he keeps her company. He is the reason that Sarah meets and makes a new friend. To everyone's surprise, Sarah's mother finally realizes that she might be causing some distress for her daughter. She begins to spend more time at home, and even lets go of some of her endless organization for the family. Perhaps an elephant was exactly what they needed!
It's easy to see from the description up to this point that this is an emotional story that has humor, an unusual premise, and careful observation of family dynamics. It moves quickly, and its inviting illustrations add to the appeal for middle graders who enjoy a touch of fantasy.
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