"He taught himself to do up his own snowsuit.
He could see they really thought that was cool!
But apparently it was not enough.
They kept asking for smiles.
It was a little exhausting to tell you the truth."
Ernest is happy enough as a newborn to see his parents smile at him. He, in fact, thinks they are quite a lovely family to call his own. Perhaps elephants would be an added bonus. As he grows, he sees many other smiling people who are part of his family. While grateful for them, he continues to be slightly disappointed that there are no elephants.
As well as his family, Ernest loves his town. He likes the people; despite the fact they are always pushing him to smile. He tries it; he doesn't like it. He stops. He is happy learning to walk, then talk, and feed himself. He is independent when dressing. He does grow weary of people asking for smiles.
Finally, his parents stop asking and start taking him to more and more interesting places. As they travel about, his parents keep a very close eye on him. He knows what they were hoping for. A visit to a famous photographer to have his picture taken does not result in a smile. When his father finally asks him what he really wants, Ernest mentions an elephant one more time.
Enter Marcia! Ernest is delighted to take her to school with him. Still, no smiling. WHY? they wonder. Sharing their concern that he is never happy is a big surprise for Ernest.
""I am happy," he said. "I'm almost always happy. I'm
just not a smiley guy.""
Sweet relief for the concerned parents. Still not totally content with his lack of discernible happiness, Ernest's parents ask if he might dance a jig to show joy. He and Marcia acquiesce, but not too often ...
Quirky? Yes! Not a big surprise from the incomparable Polly Horvath. Her message to kids is that the happiness of being yourself is so important. Boris Kulikov adds life and humorous details that are sure to tickle a funny bone or two. Guaranteed to bring smiles; just not for Ernest. Don't miss the hidden elephants!
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