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| Image: Scholastic |
Elba, a sweet but sad looking fuchsia hippo, drags a big, heavy block by a string everywhere she goes. Norris, a jovial, green alligator exudes joy and is surrounded by butterflies everywhere he goes. Norris doesn't judge Elba when she turns down his invitation to picnic with him. Instead, he joins her on her block and gently asks about it. He senses something sad inside the block, but Elba doesn't feel a thing.
Oh, how I want to be a friend like Norris! He seems to know when to press and has the patience to wait things out. I know there are children like Elba who quietly carry their sadness and can get lost during the school day. They need the time and attention and sometimes we adults have it to give but often, not.
The cheerful watercolor and digital art offers a gentle counterweight to Elba's sadness.
This is a beautiful exploration of grief and sadness and should be shared with readers of all ages.
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