Review: Happy Elephant Appreciation Day!

I know a little elephant that is very worthy of appreciation: LITTLE ELLIOT! Isn’t he cute?
 
TITLE: LITTLE ELLIOT, BIG CITY
AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR: Mike Curato
PUBLISHER: Henry Holt and Company/2014
OPENING LINES: Little Elliot was an elephant. He was different in many ways. Little Elliot loved living in a big city, but sometimes it was hard being so small in such a huge place.  
 
Most young readers (and many adults) can relate to the feeling of being small in huge place. Little Elliot faces some big challenges living in a big city, and he’s certainly learned creative ways to get by, but when he tries to buy a cupcake, poor Elliot goes unnoticed. Aw! But never fear, after a little walk Elliot discovers someone who helps him put things in perspective, and he starts to feel not so small after all. This is a super sweet book with darling illustrations to match. The retro color palette and style suit the story and Elliot’s voice “just right.” I always admire illustrated end papers and under-the-book-jacket surprises, and this book did not disappoint. To me, this book is the whole package: art, text, voice, and theme. Mike Curato’s dedication says,“For anyone who feels unnoticed.” Well, I noticed Elliot and Mike Curato’s wonderful talent, and I hope others will too!

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