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Elmer
Elmer
Elmer has been a nursery favourite since this first book was published in 1989. A modern classic, this picture book continues to be the strongest seller of the whole series.
The subtle message in Elmer is that it is OK to be different, and combined with the vibrant colour and cheeky humour of the main character, this large format edition is a celebration of its continued popularity.
From the Trade Paperback edition.
The subtle message in Elmer is that it is OK to be different, and combined with the vibrant colour and cheeky humour of the main character, this large format edition is a celebration of its continued popularity.
From the Trade Paperback edition.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1968
70 people are currently reading
2845 people want to read
About the author
David McKee
622 books110 followersDavid McKee was a British writer and illustrator, chiefly of children's books and animations. He also used the pseudonym Violet Easton. He is frequently referenced as David (John) McKee. He has been commended for his gentle, playful but insightful stories.
For his contribution as a children's illustrator he was UK nominee for the biennial, international Hans Christian Andersen Award in 2006.
For his contribution as a children's illustrator he was UK nominee for the biennial, international Hans Christian Andersen Award in 2006.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 674 reviews
June 6, 2025
Elmer the very young elephant is just that little bit different. He lives with a herd of elephants. They might be young or old, tall or short, fat or thin. In fact there are many variations in how they look. But they are all the same colour. All except Elmer. Elmer is quirky. He is most decidedly not the same colour as the other elephants.
Elmer is a beautiful kaleidoscope of all sorts of colours. His body is a patchwork of yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, blue, green, black and white. His personality is also larger than life and matches his appearance. Elmer is cheerful, optimistic and sometimes very silly. He absolutely loves practical jokes.
“If there was even a little smile, it was usually Elmer who started it.”
But one night Elmer began to worry. He couldn’t sleep for thinking.
“And the think that he was thinking was that he was tired of being different.”
Why did he look so different from all the others. Was that why they were laughing at him? So, sadly, he crept away, determined to somehow cover himself with grey, so that he would blend in with the others.
So he disguised himself, with the help of some berries, and it seemed to work! Nobody recognised him on his return, and even his friends greeted him politely, but rather distantly. Why were they all so serious, quiet and morose?
“Elmer felt that something was wrong ... the more he looked at the serious, silent, still standing elephants, the more he wanted to laugh. Finally he could bear it no longer ...”
When he did what only Elmer could have done, all the elephants became helpless with laughter too. They were overjoyed to have Elmer back in their midst again. And then the weather changed so that magically Elmer’s true colours were revealed. Everyone in the herd was so happy to have their popular prankster back that they decided to celebrate with a special day every year, On “Elmer’s Day”, every elephant would decorate themselves with unique and colourful patterns, and Elmer must decorate himself to look ... yes, you’ve guessed it!
So every year, on the day of the parade, “if you happen to see an elephant ordinary elephant colour, you will know it must be Elmer.”
The author of Elmer, David McKee, originally comes from South Devon, in England. He has produced mainly children’s books and animations, including several other series. Sometimes David McKee uses the pseudonym Violet Easton. He has illustrated books by other authors, such as some recent “Paddington Bear” books, and those by his wife, Violet McKee, and his son, Chuck McKee. The first book that he sold was of a story he had told at college, “Two Can Toucan”, which is also still in print.
Elmer is an absolutely delightful picture book. “Elmer the Patchwork Elephant” by David McKee was originally published in 1968, and has been in print ever since. The current edition uses illustrations by the author from 1985. In this edition, the name ELMER is printed on the cover in shiny gold, reflective print. Elmer has now featured in 34 books by David McKee, and the series has sold nearly 5 million copies in 40 languages around the world. It is as popular as ever. Serendipitously, just as all the elephants in this story celebrate “Elmer Day” at the end of the story, this year the publishers declared 28th May 2016, to be “Elmer Day”. Across Great Britain, libraries and bookshops have held Elmer-themed events. David McKee himself has produced Elmer board books, bath books, colouring books, an Elmer flap book, an Elmer hole-in-the-page book and an Elmer pop-up book. The character of Elmer also stars in a children’s television series.
From the start of this first story, the message is clear. Elmer is different, but he is accepted and valued just the way he is. He is unique and has a special talent to make everyone happy. When he alters his appearance and no longer looks like himself, he is ignored by his friends. He experiences what it feels like to be treated like an outcast, and to be ostracised by his old friends. In this book children may begin to think of the value of friendship and family, identity and diversity, as well as being true to oneself. When Elmer’s true colours are revealed, his friends are surprised and delighted. They much prefer his multicoloured and fun loving persona, and reassure Elmer that they love him because of his differences, and not in spite of them.
The three year old next door loved this book as much as I did. He could quickly see the elephant shape on the cover, (although at first glance to me it looked like an abstract pattern). He was very keen to name all the colours he saw, and very keen too to spot and identify all the animals in the jungle scenes. It proved to be a real page-turner, with him squealing in delight at the big “BOO” in the middle of the book, and his insistence on turning the page at the end himself, to see all the highly decorated elephants on the last two pages. My little Turkish friend wanted to keep this one, to read over and over again, rather than to return it to the library.
David McKee has a keen insight into what will appeal to little children, a lovely way with words, producing bold and attractive illustrations, and a story with a strong heart at its core. It doesn’t get any better than this.
Elmer is a beautiful kaleidoscope of all sorts of colours. His body is a patchwork of yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, blue, green, black and white. His personality is also larger than life and matches his appearance. Elmer is cheerful, optimistic and sometimes very silly. He absolutely loves practical jokes.
“If there was even a little smile, it was usually Elmer who started it.”
But one night Elmer began to worry. He couldn’t sleep for thinking.
“And the think that he was thinking was that he was tired of being different.”
Why did he look so different from all the others. Was that why they were laughing at him? So, sadly, he crept away, determined to somehow cover himself with grey, so that he would blend in with the others.
So he disguised himself, with the help of some berries, and it seemed to work! Nobody recognised him on his return, and even his friends greeted him politely, but rather distantly. Why were they all so serious, quiet and morose?
“Elmer felt that something was wrong ... the more he looked at the serious, silent, still standing elephants, the more he wanted to laugh. Finally he could bear it no longer ...”
When he did what only Elmer could have done, all the elephants became helpless with laughter too. They were overjoyed to have Elmer back in their midst again. And then the weather changed so that magically Elmer’s true colours were revealed. Everyone in the herd was so happy to have their popular prankster back that they decided to celebrate with a special day every year, On “Elmer’s Day”, every elephant would decorate themselves with unique and colourful patterns, and Elmer must decorate himself to look ... yes, you’ve guessed it!
So every year, on the day of the parade, “if you happen to see an elephant ordinary elephant colour, you will know it must be Elmer.”
The author of Elmer, David McKee, originally comes from South Devon, in England. He has produced mainly children’s books and animations, including several other series. Sometimes David McKee uses the pseudonym Violet Easton. He has illustrated books by other authors, such as some recent “Paddington Bear” books, and those by his wife, Violet McKee, and his son, Chuck McKee. The first book that he sold was of a story he had told at college, “Two Can Toucan”, which is also still in print.
Elmer is an absolutely delightful picture book. “Elmer the Patchwork Elephant” by David McKee was originally published in 1968, and has been in print ever since. The current edition uses illustrations by the author from 1985. In this edition, the name ELMER is printed on the cover in shiny gold, reflective print. Elmer has now featured in 34 books by David McKee, and the series has sold nearly 5 million copies in 40 languages around the world. It is as popular as ever. Serendipitously, just as all the elephants in this story celebrate “Elmer Day” at the end of the story, this year the publishers declared 28th May 2016, to be “Elmer Day”. Across Great Britain, libraries and bookshops have held Elmer-themed events. David McKee himself has produced Elmer board books, bath books, colouring books, an Elmer flap book, an Elmer hole-in-the-page book and an Elmer pop-up book. The character of Elmer also stars in a children’s television series.
From the start of this first story, the message is clear. Elmer is different, but he is accepted and valued just the way he is. He is unique and has a special talent to make everyone happy. When he alters his appearance and no longer looks like himself, he is ignored by his friends. He experiences what it feels like to be treated like an outcast, and to be ostracised by his old friends. In this book children may begin to think of the value of friendship and family, identity and diversity, as well as being true to oneself. When Elmer’s true colours are revealed, his friends are surprised and delighted. They much prefer his multicoloured and fun loving persona, and reassure Elmer that they love him because of his differences, and not in spite of them.
The three year old next door loved this book as much as I did. He could quickly see the elephant shape on the cover, (although at first glance to me it looked like an abstract pattern). He was very keen to name all the colours he saw, and very keen too to spot and identify all the animals in the jungle scenes. It proved to be a real page-turner, with him squealing in delight at the big “BOO” in the middle of the book, and his insistence on turning the page at the end himself, to see all the highly decorated elephants on the last two pages. My little Turkish friend wanted to keep this one, to read over and over again, rather than to return it to the library.
David McKee has a keen insight into what will appeal to little children, a lovely way with words, producing bold and attractive illustrations, and a story with a strong heart at its core. It doesn’t get any better than this.
August 23, 2019
I have read it with my 7 year old girl( i used to have this book for my older kids in the past and read it from the age of 4) , I put 3 stars, too much for me buy my daughter insisted for 3! The drawings are very cute but the story is meaningless and without respect for children, perhaps offering them stories with a little more depth would not hurt... being small (4-7 years old) do not mean not being able to reason and distinguish the emotions and circumstances of the events of life... to make them become nearly retarded will do their job cell phones, videogames, tablet and so on...
Letto insieme alla mia bimba di 6 anni, metto 3 stelle ( già tante perchè volute dalla mia piccina) disegni molto carini, ma storia senza senso e senza rispetto per i bambini, magari offrire loro storie con un pochino piu di spessore non guasterebbe... essere piccoli non significa non saper ragionare e distinguere le emozioni e le circostanze degli avvenimenti della vita... a farli diventare mezzi ritardati ci penseranno poi cellulari e company....
Letto insieme alla mia bimba di 6 anni, metto 3 stelle ( già tante perchè volute dalla mia piccina) disegni molto carini, ma storia senza senso e senza rispetto per i bambini, magari offrire loro storie con un pochino piu di spessore non guasterebbe... essere piccoli non significa non saper ragionare e distinguere le emozioni e le circostanze degli avvenimenti della vita... a farli diventare mezzi ritardati ci penseranno poi cellulari e company....
September 28, 2021
Slowly building up a collection of books from my childhood for my daughter and seeing 30th anniversary edition is starting to make me feel slightly old!
Elmer the patchwork elephant is different to the rest of the herd, his desperate to fit in with the the group and goes to great lengths to achieve it.
Thankfully the moral of the tale is that everyone prefers the real Elmer.
It's such a great message of diversity and accepting who you really are, if everyone looked and felt the same then the world would be a much duller place.
Elmer the patchwork elephant is different to the rest of the herd, his desperate to fit in with the the group and goes to great lengths to achieve it.
Thankfully the moral of the tale is that everyone prefers the real Elmer.
It's such a great message of diversity and accepting who you really are, if everyone looked and felt the same then the world would be a much duller place.
December 3, 2024
من عاشق قصه هایی ام که روی قشنگی متفاوت بودن تمرکز دارن. واقعا دنیا با تفاوت ها قشنگه ، با آدمای متفاوت و تنوع رنگ و شکل و شخصیت
October 29, 2016
Thanks to Wiebke, I’ve discovered my first Elmer book. I’m very grateful. This is a gift worthy book for new babies and for young children.
This is the first Elmer book, and there are many others. Unfortunately, my library has only a very few of the books, perhaps because they’re British books.
I am so surprised I’d never known of these books. This book was first published in 1968. I’d have thought I’d have come across them before now.
This story is charming and sweet, lighthearted, and very amusing.
This particular book is a great educational tool for children who are enjoying learning their colors.
The positive message about celebrating differences is done in a way that’s not at all heavy handed and I think it’s effective. It’s also a wonderful friendship story.
The illustrations are very colorful and fun. There is a lot to look at on every page. I especially enjoyed some of the facial expressions the various animals exhibit. So entertaining!
Children’s adults will be just as entertained as they are, and in my opinion that’s one thing that makes a great children’s picture book. I can see why this is a classic.
One short quote from the author’s biography on the inside back cover that I really appreciated: Mr. McKee enjoys…doing books that “leave things unsaid.”
Lovely book!
4 ½ stars
This is the first Elmer book, and there are many others. Unfortunately, my library has only a very few of the books, perhaps because they’re British books.
I am so surprised I’d never known of these books. This book was first published in 1968. I’d have thought I’d have come across them before now.
This story is charming and sweet, lighthearted, and very amusing.
This particular book is a great educational tool for children who are enjoying learning their colors.
The positive message about celebrating differences is done in a way that’s not at all heavy handed and I think it’s effective. It’s also a wonderful friendship story.
The illustrations are very colorful and fun. There is a lot to look at on every page. I especially enjoyed some of the facial expressions the various animals exhibit. So entertaining!
Children’s adults will be just as entertained as they are, and in my opinion that’s one thing that makes a great children’s picture book. I can see why this is a classic.
One short quote from the author’s biography on the inside back cover that I really appreciated: Mr. McKee enjoys…doing books that “leave things unsaid.”
Lovely book!
4 ½ stars
July 12, 2024
یه کتاب کودک خفن. هم قصه رو بدون دست انداز و راحت تعریف میکنه، و هم تصویرسازیهاش عالین.
February 11, 2013
Stuck in a toy-shop in German-speaking Bern on Saturday, I picked up a copy of Elmar and tried to read it. My German is very uncertain, so I don't guarantee that I understood everything. Here's a tentative plot summary:
Elmer Goes Mainstream
Elephants are notoriously unimaginative, and quietly proud of their drab, gray conformity. But every now and then, you get an exception. Elmer was just such an elephant. A natural rebel and iconoclast, this was reflected even in his pigmentation, which was a bizarre patchwork of psychedelic colors. He would often play jokes on the other elephants.
"Personally, I think he takes it too far," one of them grumbled.
"To be honest, I don't see the point," another one agreed.
"You soon get tired of it," said a third.
The rest of this review is in my book If Research Were Romance and Other Implausible Conjectures
Elmer Goes Mainstream
Elephants are notoriously unimaginative, and quietly proud of their drab, gray conformity. But every now and then, you get an exception. Elmer was just such an elephant. A natural rebel and iconoclast, this was reflected even in his pigmentation, which was a bizarre patchwork of psychedelic colors. He would often play jokes on the other elephants.
"Personally, I think he takes it too far," one of them grumbled.
"To be honest, I don't see the point," another one agreed.
"You soon get tired of it," said a third.
The rest of this review is in my book If Research Were Romance and Other Implausible Conjectures
March 29, 2024
Историите за малкият кариран слон дълго време бяха любими на племенниците ми.
Като се замисля - и на мен също. :)
Като се замисля - и на мен също. :)
May 10, 2020
I am so glad that I had the chance to read this book! I think every young child should be introduced to David McKee's
Elmer
. The book encourages each of us, young and old, to embrace who we are. We are encouraged to celebrate our differences. In this short tale, McKee reminds us that by accepting our special gifts and talents, we can bring joy and happiness to those around us.
Elmer
is well worth your time.
June 4, 2021
برای این که به بچه ها یاد بدی متفاوت بودن چیز بدی نیست خیلی خوبه، اونم توی این دوره که همه بچه ها دوست دارن مثل هم باشن
September 20, 2019
This is a beautiful children’s book, that will really brighten up your (and if you have children, also their) day. It is hard to feel down when you have such a wonderfully brightly coloured, happy elephant to look at.
Unfortunately, Elmer thinks that maybe the other elephants are laughing at him – for being different – instead of laughing with him – for being funny and loveable.
When he dons a ‘normal elephant’ disguise, he finds his herd have lost their sense of joy. Soon, he discovers that it is his differences that make him and the other elephants happy.
No-one should feel they have to conform to a group idea of what is ‘normal’, and have to ‘fit in’. Often when people do manage to accept themselves, for who they are – they suddenly discover that other people are ready and willing to accept them for that too.
As Elmer is accepted and, indeed feted for, his differences, so can children (and grownups) be an important part of a diverse and supportive community.
The pictures at the end of the book, of the elephants celebrating ‘Elmer Day’ are a wonderful riot of colour and pleasure.
Thanks to 'Whispering Stories' for introducing me to this book
Unfortunately, Elmer thinks that maybe the other elephants are laughing at him – for being different – instead of laughing with him – for being funny and loveable.
When he dons a ‘normal elephant’ disguise, he finds his herd have lost their sense of joy. Soon, he discovers that it is his differences that make him and the other elephants happy.
No-one should feel they have to conform to a group idea of what is ‘normal’, and have to ‘fit in’. Often when people do manage to accept themselves, for who they are – they suddenly discover that other people are ready and willing to accept them for that too.
As Elmer is accepted and, indeed feted for, his differences, so can children (and grownups) be an important part of a diverse and supportive community.
The pictures at the end of the book, of the elephants celebrating ‘Elmer Day’ are a wonderful riot of colour and pleasure.
Thanks to 'Whispering Stories' for introducing me to this book
January 28, 2020
Such a beautiful book to read, each page is as colourful as the next and the story of Elmer the elephant who is different is fantastic and a brilliant way to learn acceptance at a young age. My friends love reading Elmer and so do I, it never fails to make me smile
January 2, 2016
since this book is called "Elmar" in german (like my baby brother) I had to "read" this cute book hah hah.
October 17, 2025
elmer te amo!!!
June 17, 2022
Labai miela, šilta, šmaikšti, jauki istorija, įsimylėjom fainuolį Elmerį! 🥰
July 25, 2018
Reseña completa en: http://perdidaentrepaginasymas.blogsp...
Como bien nos dice la reseña, Elmer no es como todos los elefantes. Elmer es de todos colores.
Lo que me ha gustado de la novela es que a pesar de lo que pueda parecer en la sinopsis, Elmer no es repudiado o discriminado por los demás elefantes como pasa, por ejemplo, en El patito feo. Él simplemente es distinto a los demás pero se llevan todos muy bien y se divierten con sus locuras.
A pesar de esto a Elmer le gustaría ser aunque sea por un ratito como sus amigos. Y es por esto que decide idear un plan.
Se pinta todo el cuerpo con una fruta que finalmente lo termina dejando color elefante y así camuflado se mete entre sus amigos sin que nadie lo reconozca y cuando nadie se lo espera...¡Los asusta!
Todos los elefantes se empiezan a revolcar de la risa y a festejarle el chiste a Elmer, quedando de allí en mas ese día marcado como el día de Elmer. Llegado ese día todos los elefantes se pintan de colores y salen a festejar siendo Elmer el único de color elefante.
Puntos positivos y temas que se tratan en el libro:
Obviamente el libro trata temas como la diversidad y la aceptación. Me ha gustado que desde el principio si bien Elmer era diferente, todos lo querían tal como era y él mismo se aceptaba. Esto es importante ya que la mayoría de las historias que hablan sobre el tema nos dibujan un entorno donde el personaje, de entrada no es aceptado y quizá para los mas pequeños no es la mejor manera de abordarles el problema.
Elmer es un personaje super divertido y querido por todos que nos enseña que ser diferentes no esta mal y que de hecho, tiene muchas cosas buenas.
Muy recomendado para enseñarle de a poquito y por medio de historias y juegos valores a los mas chiquitos.
Como bien nos dice la reseña, Elmer no es como todos los elefantes. Elmer es de todos colores.
Lo que me ha gustado de la novela es que a pesar de lo que pueda parecer en la sinopsis, Elmer no es repudiado o discriminado por los demás elefantes como pasa, por ejemplo, en El patito feo. Él simplemente es distinto a los demás pero se llevan todos muy bien y se divierten con sus locuras.
A pesar de esto a Elmer le gustaría ser aunque sea por un ratito como sus amigos. Y es por esto que decide idear un plan.
Se pinta todo el cuerpo con una fruta que finalmente lo termina dejando color elefante y así camuflado se mete entre sus amigos sin que nadie lo reconozca y cuando nadie se lo espera...¡Los asusta!
Todos los elefantes se empiezan a revolcar de la risa y a festejarle el chiste a Elmer, quedando de allí en mas ese día marcado como el día de Elmer. Llegado ese día todos los elefantes se pintan de colores y salen a festejar siendo Elmer el único de color elefante.
Puntos positivos y temas que se tratan en el libro:
Obviamente el libro trata temas como la diversidad y la aceptación. Me ha gustado que desde el principio si bien Elmer era diferente, todos lo querían tal como era y él mismo se aceptaba. Esto es importante ya que la mayoría de las historias que hablan sobre el tema nos dibujan un entorno donde el personaje, de entrada no es aceptado y quizá para los mas pequeños no es la mejor manera de abordarles el problema.
Elmer es un personaje super divertido y querido por todos que nos enseña que ser diferentes no esta mal y que de hecho, tiene muchas cosas buenas.
Muy recomendado para enseñarle de a poquito y por medio de historias y juegos valores a los mas chiquitos.
July 17, 2012
The story of Elmer has always been a memorable one. From my own memories of the story from when I was little it has always held a strong yet familiar moral message.
Elmer is an elephant with a patchwork body of a variety of colours. He is a cheerful and optimistic character. However, when Elmer changes his appearance to fit in to his surroundings he is no longer recognisable by the other elephants. Of course this makes Elmer sad that he is no longer accepted and begins to understand how it feels to be treated like an outsider. When it rains, the grey paint which Elmer had covered himself with is washed away and his 'true colours' are once more revealed. To the joy of the group Elmer realises that it is his differences which make him who he is.
David McKee's colourful depiction of differences through the story of Elmer can provide and important learning curve for children. This story can be used effectively during circle time where it can be read and then discussed amongst children in KS1. It can be highlighted that it is differences which make people interesting, and that no one should be ostracized because they are slightly different from their peers. Elmer can also be used for art based activities, where children can draw and write about their differences on varying coloured card, so the class can create their own patchwork Elmer, possibly for the beginning of the school year when children are moving up from EYFS to KS1.
Elmer is an elephant with a patchwork body of a variety of colours. He is a cheerful and optimistic character. However, when Elmer changes his appearance to fit in to his surroundings he is no longer recognisable by the other elephants. Of course this makes Elmer sad that he is no longer accepted and begins to understand how it feels to be treated like an outsider. When it rains, the grey paint which Elmer had covered himself with is washed away and his 'true colours' are once more revealed. To the joy of the group Elmer realises that it is his differences which make him who he is.
David McKee's colourful depiction of differences through the story of Elmer can provide and important learning curve for children. This story can be used effectively during circle time where it can be read and then discussed amongst children in KS1. It can be highlighted that it is differences which make people interesting, and that no one should be ostracized because they are slightly different from their peers. Elmer can also be used for art based activities, where children can draw and write about their differences on varying coloured card, so the class can create their own patchwork Elmer, possibly for the beginning of the school year when children are moving up from EYFS to KS1.
October 24, 2012
Elmer is the story of an elephant that is noticeably different to the others; he is a brightly coloured patchwork elephant. However Elmer did not want to be different to the other elephants as they laughed at him, so he tried to make himself ‘elephant colour’ like the others. After hatching a plan and rolling around in berry juice to make himself ‘elephant colour’ Elmer decides that being part of the crowd is too boring and realises that being different isn’t so bad after all. At the end of the story Elmer makes the other elephants laugh like they have never laughed before which makes them decide to have a parade in honour of Elmer and they decorate themselves to become just like him.
This book is suitable for children from a very early age, however would be suitable for children in an educational setting from the age of 3 years due to the colourful illustrations. It would also be a useful resource to use with children in the reception and year 1 ages ranges as it offers a message of accepting others, understanding that everyone is different and being happy with who you are. Finally it would be a great addition to any classroom book shelf for children of all abilities and age ranges to explore and enjoy.
This book is suitable for children from a very early age, however would be suitable for children in an educational setting from the age of 3 years due to the colourful illustrations. It would also be a useful resource to use with children in the reception and year 1 ages ranges as it offers a message of accepting others, understanding that everyone is different and being happy with who you are. Finally it would be a great addition to any classroom book shelf for children of all abilities and age ranges to explore and enjoy.
November 1, 2017
I loved this book as a child and having reread it now, I still really enjoyed the story.
McKee's story is full of humour and joy. It celebrates diversity and encourages children to celebrate their differences. Elmer is a very likeable character with a huge sense of fun that children would definitely be able to relate to.
The book is filled with beautifully vibrant illustrations that help to bring the plot to life. There is a pretty high picture to text ratio but there is still quite a substantial amount of text, usually a few sentences on each page. I also like McKee's creative layout e.g the "booo!" 2 page spread.
In terms of use in the classroom, it's great for thinking about colours and jungle animals. Children could create their own patchwork elephants in art or design.
Overall, a very charming text that I would generally recommend for key stage 1 children.
McKee's story is full of humour and joy. It celebrates diversity and encourages children to celebrate their differences. Elmer is a very likeable character with a huge sense of fun that children would definitely be able to relate to.
The book is filled with beautifully vibrant illustrations that help to bring the plot to life. There is a pretty high picture to text ratio but there is still quite a substantial amount of text, usually a few sentences on each page. I also like McKee's creative layout e.g the "booo!" 2 page spread.
In terms of use in the classroom, it's great for thinking about colours and jungle animals. Children could create their own patchwork elephants in art or design.
Overall, a very charming text that I would generally recommend for key stage 1 children.
September 19, 2021
موسسه پژوهشی تاریخ ادبیات کودکان، در ابتدای کتاب نوشته که کودکان حق دارند کتاب با کیفیت بخوانند، و در ادامه کتاب به این خوبی رو نابود کرده! نميدونم استانداردهای این مجموعه چطور تعریف میشه اما جدای آثار تالیفی با زبان بسیار بد، کیفیت ترجمهها هم بسیار بسیار بسیار بده. از ترجمهی خیلی بد که بگذریم سوال من اینه که در کل این مجموعه یک نفر پیدا نمیشه که بلد باشه یک ویرگول درست توی متن بذاره؟ این چه شکل عجیب و غریبی از ویرگوله که توی همهی کتابهاشون هم هست؟ با این کیفیت ترجمه و گرافیک کاش حداقل سراغ کتابهای خوب جهان نرن.
August 1, 2015
A wonderful read from my childhood, one I’d certainly suggest for other youngsters. Whilst it is not my all-time favourite childhood read I can still recall all the details of this one meaning it certainly left a lasting impression upon my young mind.
And isn’t that what we want with children’s books, for them to leave a positive lasting impression?
And isn’t that what we want with children’s books, for them to leave a positive lasting impression?
May 1, 2012
Elmer is a wonderful children's story with the underlying message that it is alright for everyone to be different and that we all possess unique qualities. I shared this book with Nursery children who were deeply engrossed by Elmer and his great patch work.
The primal focus of the story is on ‘Elmer ‘who is an elephant that does not resemble the other elephants in his herd. They are all grey – whereas he is remarkably dissimilar with patchwork with lots of different colours! Although Elmer keeps all the other elephants happy with his witty nature, deep down he starts to feel saddened by the fact that he looks somewhat different to the other elephants. Therefore as a consequence of this Elmer decides to disguise himself. He achieves this through shaking some berries from a tree onto the ground; he then submerges himself onto these berries. The end result is that his patch work disappears and he emerges as a grey elephant.
When Elmer returns to his herd, he is delighted that his plan was a success as none of the other elephants recognize him. However, it becomes apparent that all the other elephants are miserable without him. Eventually Elmer could not with-stand to be in disguise any longer and unveils himself to the other elephants who are only too delighted to see him.
Eventually all the elephants agree it was one of the best jokes that Elmer had played on them. As a result they all decided that each year they will have a special day where all of the other elephants will decorate themselves and Elmer will paint himself grey.
This is a must read book! A great book for teaching young children about the differences we all have, it also highlights that there is nothing wrong about being different. It demonstrates that we all have unique qualities for instance (Elmer looks different - yet he always kept the other elephants entertained and happy and they were miserable without him!). This book is a wonderful book to share with young readers. For older children, discussions could centre on that it is not always necessary to try and change to fit in, as we all have something unique to offer to others.
The text is very simple and is easily understood by young children. With a younger age groups you can use Elmer's multicoloured patchwork body to identify different colours. Younger children can also enjoy taking part in an Elmer parade and possibly do role play. It is a timeless classic and very heart warming, a good read!!
The primal focus of the story is on ‘Elmer ‘who is an elephant that does not resemble the other elephants in his herd. They are all grey – whereas he is remarkably dissimilar with patchwork with lots of different colours! Although Elmer keeps all the other elephants happy with his witty nature, deep down he starts to feel saddened by the fact that he looks somewhat different to the other elephants. Therefore as a consequence of this Elmer decides to disguise himself. He achieves this through shaking some berries from a tree onto the ground; he then submerges himself onto these berries. The end result is that his patch work disappears and he emerges as a grey elephant.
When Elmer returns to his herd, he is delighted that his plan was a success as none of the other elephants recognize him. However, it becomes apparent that all the other elephants are miserable without him. Eventually Elmer could not with-stand to be in disguise any longer and unveils himself to the other elephants who are only too delighted to see him.
Eventually all the elephants agree it was one of the best jokes that Elmer had played on them. As a result they all decided that each year they will have a special day where all of the other elephants will decorate themselves and Elmer will paint himself grey.
This is a must read book! A great book for teaching young children about the differences we all have, it also highlights that there is nothing wrong about being different. It demonstrates that we all have unique qualities for instance (Elmer looks different - yet he always kept the other elephants entertained and happy and they were miserable without him!). This book is a wonderful book to share with young readers. For older children, discussions could centre on that it is not always necessary to try and change to fit in, as we all have something unique to offer to others.
The text is very simple and is easily understood by young children. With a younger age groups you can use Elmer's multicoloured patchwork body to identify different colours. Younger children can also enjoy taking part in an Elmer parade and possibly do role play. It is a timeless classic and very heart warming, a good read!!
November 2, 2013
This is my favourite book so far. I fell in love with it from the first picture - all the grey elephants standing together with a rich green background. It seems like oil pastel, but I'm not sure. I loved the colours though - the rich, bright colours and their combinations. And when I then turned the page to see Elmer, the patchwork elephant - I was utterly enchanted. A colourful patchwork elephant!
But it wasn't just the artwork that made me love this book. I loved the character of Elmer, and the story. The message is one I thoroughly believe in. Elmer, being patchwork, is totally different from the other elephants. He's also different in personality - he's jolly, fun, mischievous, and makes them laugh. But he gets a bit self-conscious about the fact that he looks different, so he disguises himself by rubbing himself witih elephant-coloured berries. You can guess the gist of what's coming, of course - but this isn't your usual, ruggedly individualistic 'Be yourself and screw everyone else!' moral. It's not so much about Elmer, but about the whole herd. The point is that the other elephants become sad - they don't recognise Elmer and the atmosphere of the whole herd changes at not having Elmer there. They become quiet and sombre, and are delighted to find him again, when he reveals himself first through his personality, then from the rain washing off the berry juice.
So the message is more about the importance of being oneself for the sake of one's whole community - how differences are valued and contribute to the way a group operates. Of course, one could argue that in reality, not everyone appreciates everyone's differences, but as a story for very young children, this is perfect - just the right level. And also there is the fact that Elmer's differences are a bit childlike - the colourfulness and love of practical jokes and laughter are things that a young child can identify with, whereas the other elephants could be seen as being more like adults. So there's a bit of a sense of the story encouraging children to be themselves in all their mischievousness too - that their fun and games bring laughter.
But it wasn't just the artwork that made me love this book. I loved the character of Elmer, and the story. The message is one I thoroughly believe in. Elmer, being patchwork, is totally different from the other elephants. He's also different in personality - he's jolly, fun, mischievous, and makes them laugh. But he gets a bit self-conscious about the fact that he looks different, so he disguises himself by rubbing himself witih elephant-coloured berries. You can guess the gist of what's coming, of course - but this isn't your usual, ruggedly individualistic 'Be yourself and screw everyone else!' moral. It's not so much about Elmer, but about the whole herd. The point is that the other elephants become sad - they don't recognise Elmer and the atmosphere of the whole herd changes at not having Elmer there. They become quiet and sombre, and are delighted to find him again, when he reveals himself first through his personality, then from the rain washing off the berry juice.
So the message is more about the importance of being oneself for the sake of one's whole community - how differences are valued and contribute to the way a group operates. Of course, one could argue that in reality, not everyone appreciates everyone's differences, but as a story for very young children, this is perfect - just the right level. And also there is the fact that Elmer's differences are a bit childlike - the colourfulness and love of practical jokes and laughter are things that a young child can identify with, whereas the other elephants could be seen as being more like adults. So there's a bit of a sense of the story encouraging children to be themselves in all their mischievousness too - that their fun and games bring laughter.
November 25, 2012
“Elmer was different. Elmer was patchwork. Elmer was yellow and orange and red and pink and….”
Elmer is a heart-warming, uplifting story of a young elephant that is different from all the other elephants in the herd. Unlike every other grey elephant in the herd, Elmer is a colourful, patchwork elephant. Like many young people, Elmer wishes he was the same as everyone else. One day he sets off to find a way to make himself a grey elephant. He succeeds with his wish but quickly realises that being the same as everyone else is not as great as he had imagined.
The underlying message in this book offers great opportunities for speaking and listening activities and could also be transferred to an English lesson for a comparative study. The book would be a great resource to accompany an anti-bullying talk in key stage one and indeed into a PSHE lesson.
The fun colourful illustrations convey the story extremely well and offer us a great pictorial sense of emotion. In particular my year one class love the picture where it’s raining and all the elephants are laughing and enjoying themselves and Elmer’s patchwork is revealed.
Overall a fantastic book with multiple uses to link with the curriculum in key stage one, while also offering an important life message; Its ok to be different.
Elmer is a heart-warming, uplifting story of a young elephant that is different from all the other elephants in the herd. Unlike every other grey elephant in the herd, Elmer is a colourful, patchwork elephant. Like many young people, Elmer wishes he was the same as everyone else. One day he sets off to find a way to make himself a grey elephant. He succeeds with his wish but quickly realises that being the same as everyone else is not as great as he had imagined.
The underlying message in this book offers great opportunities for speaking and listening activities and could also be transferred to an English lesson for a comparative study. The book would be a great resource to accompany an anti-bullying talk in key stage one and indeed into a PSHE lesson.
The fun colourful illustrations convey the story extremely well and offer us a great pictorial sense of emotion. In particular my year one class love the picture where it’s raining and all the elephants are laughing and enjoying themselves and Elmer’s patchwork is revealed.
Overall a fantastic book with multiple uses to link with the curriculum in key stage one, while also offering an important life message; Its ok to be different.
September 11, 2016
Coperta super glossy, format larg si generos, desene ok, colorit abundent, povestea nu prea m-a dat pe spate.
The cover of the romanian edition was very glossy, the format of the book is very large, the drawings are ok, it has a lot of colors, but the story wasn`t something that I would remember over time. :)
The cover of the romanian edition was very glossy, the format of the book is very large, the drawings are ok, it has a lot of colors, but the story wasn`t something that I would remember over time. :)
January 5, 2012
This book was given to my son as a gift and what a fabulous book it was. It touches on the want to be accepted because of similarities rather than being unique. Therefore with this in mind, the book cleverly highlights some important themes. Rings alarm bells for me and my son!
Elmer is a patchwork elephant living among grey elephants and provides fun and laughter. He is unique, but does not see it. He decides to cover his colourful patchwork with elephant berries because he thinks that the grey elephants are all laughing at him. He soon realises that trying to be like the rest of the elephants was a mistake as everyone is upset, they want the old Elmer back, including Elmer.
So he reverts back to his old self and before you know it everyone is happy.
The book beautifully teaches the difference between people and how being unique is not such a bad thing. It’s also important to teach children that being the same isn’t always the happiest way, and David McKee skillfully illustrates this.
Furthermore, the book has vibrant and exuberant colours which also add to the unique aspect of the book. The language is also easy to read and understand.
A very meaningful read !
Elmer is a patchwork elephant living among grey elephants and provides fun and laughter. He is unique, but does not see it. He decides to cover his colourful patchwork with elephant berries because he thinks that the grey elephants are all laughing at him. He soon realises that trying to be like the rest of the elephants was a mistake as everyone is upset, they want the old Elmer back, including Elmer.
So he reverts back to his old self and before you know it everyone is happy.
The book beautifully teaches the difference between people and how being unique is not such a bad thing. It’s also important to teach children that being the same isn’t always the happiest way, and David McKee skillfully illustrates this.
Furthermore, the book has vibrant and exuberant colours which also add to the unique aspect of the book. The language is also easy to read and understand.
A very meaningful read !
May 17, 2012
If my son was an elephant, he would be an elephant like Elmer: yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, blue, green, black, white. So many times does he stress his multiple bright colors each time he pretends to be dog, or cat. But, Elmer does not take joy in being so colorful, because after all, who wants to be different?
I was probably expecting a silly story, but it's not. It's gentle and sensitive and my son was full of empathy for Elmer. In fact, I was surprised at how much he felt for him, right at the first pages he identified that he was sad about being different, and he completely anticipated what his intentions were as he wandered away from the other elephants. This is one of those heartfelt stories about individuality, such as for instance my favorite Chrysanthemum.
I was probably expecting a silly story, but it's not. It's gentle and sensitive and my son was full of empathy for Elmer. In fact, I was surprised at how much he felt for him, right at the first pages he identified that he was sad about being different, and he completely anticipated what his intentions were as he wandered away from the other elephants. This is one of those heartfelt stories about individuality, such as for instance my favorite Chrysanthemum.
September 1, 2018
همهی فیلها فیلیرنگ!! هستند ولی المر یک فیل بامزه و شوخ و رنگارنگ است و فیلهای دیگر او را با این مشخصه میشناسند. المر از این تفاوت راضی نیست و سعی میکند خود را شبیه فیلهای دیگر کند، اما ...
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تو مخلوق خاص و بیهمتای خدایی و هیچکس شبیه تو نیست! تو ویژگیهایی داری که بقیه ندارند. پس خودتو دوست داشته باش و از این خاص بودن لذت ببر 😊😎
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تو مخلوق خاص و بیهمتای خدایی و هیچکس شبیه تو نیست! تو ویژگیهایی داری که بقیه ندارند. پس خودتو دوست داشته باش و از این خاص بودن لذت ببر 😊😎
April 16, 2018
Found this today while helping the girls do a bit of tidying. Good fun
February 7, 2023
Loved the weird spontanious story of the young elephant. A great funny story for kids.
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