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Monkey and Elephant #1
Monkey and Elephant
In three episodes two friends cool off on a hot day, sing songs, and outsmart some riffraff wildcats.
42 pages, Paperback
First published March 27, 2012
8 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
About the author
Carole Lexa Schaefer
38 books16 followersWhen Carole Lexa Schaefer was growing up, she wanted to be both a poet and a journalist. In an unexpected way, she feels she achieved her ambition. While studying for a master's degree in early childhood education, she once put together a picture book made of photo essays. "The lyrical, every-word-counts genre captivated the poet and journalist in me," Carole Lexa Schaefer recalls--and she's been writing stories for children ever since. Her first book with Candlewick, THE COPPER TIN CUP, traces the origin of a family keepsake that's been handed down for generations. "It was inspired by my connections with my immigrant relatives through stories and songs--invisible heirlooms--to keep handing on," she says.
The longtime director of a Seattle preschool that she founded in 1980, Carole Lexa Schaefer often draws on her experience with young children when writing stories. In DOWN IN THE WOODS AT SLEEPYTIME, not one of the baby animals in the woods is ready to go to bed, until Grandma Owl finally finds a way to settle everyone down. The author says she was inspired "by all my friends at Little Friends Preschool who like to play just a little bit longer--even at sleepytime." Luckily, preschool teachers now have some help at nap time: DOWN IN THE WOODS AT SLEEPYTIME, says PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, is a book in which "author and artist make bedtime about as appealing as it gets."
With her next books, Carole Lexa Schaefer switches gears from sleepytime to partytime. FULL MOON BARNYARD DANCE is a rousing read-aloud that showcases farm animals dancing as they learn to appreciate their differences. ONE WHEEL WOBBLES, a zany counting book, follows one fun-loving family on Family Parade Day as they roll along on an ever-increasing number of wheels--Gramma on a motorcycle, Sister on a trike, and Grampa on some snazzy skates. Of ONE WHEEL WOBBLES, Carole Lexa Schaefer explains, "I wanted to create a counting book for children with which they could have a rollicking good time."
Carole Lexa Schaefer, who has a master's degree in early childhood education from the University of Washington, taught school for ten years in places as varied as Taiwan, Switzerland, and Micronesia, as well as Missouri and Washington. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, the author now lives in Seattle.
The longtime director of a Seattle preschool that she founded in 1980, Carole Lexa Schaefer often draws on her experience with young children when writing stories. In DOWN IN THE WOODS AT SLEEPYTIME, not one of the baby animals in the woods is ready to go to bed, until Grandma Owl finally finds a way to settle everyone down. The author says she was inspired "by all my friends at Little Friends Preschool who like to play just a little bit longer--even at sleepytime." Luckily, preschool teachers now have some help at nap time: DOWN IN THE WOODS AT SLEEPYTIME, says PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, is a book in which "author and artist make bedtime about as appealing as it gets."
With her next books, Carole Lexa Schaefer switches gears from sleepytime to partytime. FULL MOON BARNYARD DANCE is a rousing read-aloud that showcases farm animals dancing as they learn to appreciate their differences. ONE WHEEL WOBBLES, a zany counting book, follows one fun-loving family on Family Parade Day as they roll along on an ever-increasing number of wheels--Gramma on a motorcycle, Sister on a trike, and Grampa on some snazzy skates. Of ONE WHEEL WOBBLES, Carole Lexa Schaefer explains, "I wanted to create a counting book for children with which they could have a rollicking good time."
Carole Lexa Schaefer, who has a master's degree in early childhood education from the University of Washington, taught school for ten years in places as varied as Taiwan, Switzerland, and Micronesia, as well as Missouri and Washington. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, the author now lives in Seattle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
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February 28, 2022Read on openlibrary.org. (!)
Makes me want to read the others which, unlike this one, are available at OKC library system. (!)
Too little. Too much. Not too loud. Not too quiet. Just right.
A fun take on an unlikely friendship, a staple of leveled readers since the inimitable Frog and Toad.
In fact, is there a (fiction) leveled reader series that is *not* about friendships? Please comment.
Makes me want to read the others which, unlike this one, are available at OKC library system. (!)
Too little. Too much. Not too loud. Not too quiet. Just right.
A fun take on an unlikely friendship, a staple of leveled readers since the inimitable Frog and Toad.
In fact, is there a (fiction) leveled reader series that is *not* about friendships? Please comment.
October 18, 2023
Quite fun! The two of them do things differently, but still stick with each other. There’s also a few fun words, most of all galumped.
January 30, 2024
Now this is an excellent early chapter book. I can't wait to read the whole series. The story is very simple and the text wholly appropriate for emerging readers, yet the characters are endearing. There is some tension, some word play, some voice. The subtlety in the word choices adds dimension and re-readability. The two characters are distinct. The book is charming and funny and playful while being on the quiet side. I love the illustrator's ability to infuse life into a very dialogue-heavy text. Her character emotions are right on the surface and add a new level to the story. An excellent choice for young readers looking for a series to love.
March 8, 2018
This was such a lovely book (and what a pleasant surprise to find there are more in the series). The scene at the end delighted Miss 3 and reminded me of a happy couple. I liked the use of opposites (Too fast! Too slow!) and the way they were worked into the book; I also liked the positive theme where they reflect on why they like each other. Kindy's will sometimes have a theme where they practice giving compliments and this ties in nicely with that.
October 21, 2024
This book was funny but also helpful when children may be fighting with friends. The book explains how the monkey and elephant kept fighting over things the other was doing. In the end they put their differences aside and realized they were still best friends. It teaches you that it’s okay to have disagreements with people, but to talk things out!
January 9, 2017
In the spirit of the friendship greats, Elephant & Piggie, Frog & Toad, Cork & Fuzz, George & Martha, and Minnie & Moo, here come Monkey & Elephant. This book capitalizes on the setting of the jungle and teaches opposites as Monkey and Elephant negotiate their friendship. Love it!
August 21, 2017
I like that elephant galumps but the book falls a little flat in the humor/interest department. My daughter was hoping it would be like elephant and piggie and it is not.
July 17, 2018
The illustrations make this book stand out! The story lines needed to be fleshed out a bit more. Worth buying for the elementary library and reading aloud to get kids interested.
June 5, 2019
Stars per my six-year-old.
March 12, 2017
I like this early chapter book series, featuring two friends who are different, but are close friends.
April 6, 2012
A hot day will test any friendship as those of us who have lived in the South for much of our lives can attest. In this simple story told in three chapters, good friends Elephant and Monkey go in search for shade so they can cool off. But they start to get on each other's nerves pretty quickly since Monkey moves too slowly for Elephant and Elephant moves too quickly for Monkey. Even when they stop for water, Monkey drinks it too slowly, too daintily, while Elephant splooshes all the water in a puddle all over them. All these problems remind me of a few road trips I've taken with friends since both animals want to have things their way, and even while they're trying to accommodate each other's needs, the resentment is growing. They end up singing songs and having fun again before Monkey is threatened by three wildcats who have their eyes on him for a snack. I love some of the words such as "galump" (p. 8), "Dip. Sip. Dip. Sip" (p. 10), and "riffraff" (p. 30). The digital illustrations are filled with rich colors, and each page shows the two animals' annoyance with each other. I loved Elephant's half-closed eyes that open when Monkey decides he needs to talk to him just as they are settling down for a nap. This one was fun to read aloud.
February 9, 2013
Story is disappointing. It is a picture book in the form of an easy chapter book--which appealed to me immensely. I was excited to read it and wanted to like it. I can see where the author wanted to go with the story, but it fails on all counts.
Unfortunately the author did not capitalize on the format. If this was going to be published it would have been better suited in a larger format picture book, as the illustrations by Galia Bernstein are very good. They have bright, flat, pleasing jewel tone colors and the representations of the Monkey and the Elephant are endearing.
Too much of both the story text and the dialogue uses the following formula:
Repetition IS important but the rhythm of the language is stilted and uncomfortable. It doesn't marry well with the illustrations and it is uncomfortable physically to say aloud (even weird-sounding when reading to yourself).
When there are spectacular works out there like the Elephant & Piggie series by Mo Willems, this one is a waste of your (or your young reader's) time.
Unfortunately the author did not capitalize on the format. If this was going to be published it would have been better suited in a larger format picture book, as the illustrations by Galia Bernstein are very good. They have bright, flat, pleasing jewel tone colors and the representations of the Monkey and the Elephant are endearing.
Too much of both the story text and the dialogue uses the following formula:
"Humph," said Elephant. "Too bossy."
"Too grumbly," said Monkey.
"Too sassy," said Elephant.
"Too cranky," said Monkey.
Repetition IS important but the rhythm of the language is stilted and uncomfortable. It doesn't marry well with the illustrations and it is uncomfortable physically to say aloud (even weird-sounding when reading to yourself).
When there are spectacular works out there like the Elephant & Piggie series by Mo Willems, this one is a waste of your (or your young reader's) time.
October 26, 2012
"Monkey and Elephant" by Carole Lexa Schaefer is a story about two very different animals with two very different personalities but they are friends nonetheless. They live in the jungle and it is so hot that they can barely stand the heat..and almost each other! In this 3 chapter book, Monkey and Elephant begin a journey in search of shade. They bicker, sing and have fun along the way.
This beginning chapter book is great for emerging readers, older struggling readers or any reader who is looking for something entertaining to read. This book is appealing with it's creative word choice and playful illustrations. It's also just plain cute and enjoyable. Keeping this book in my classroom would be an advisable idea as I am always promoting the use of descriptive, clever words. It helps with expression, originality, voice and gives children confidence in their vocabulary and can help them develop into better writers. It would be fun to have the students think of more inventive words that they can use to describe themselves, their friends and other mundane situations that can actually be described as not-so-boring after all!
Somerville, Mass. : Candlewick Press, 2012.
This beginning chapter book is great for emerging readers, older struggling readers or any reader who is looking for something entertaining to read. This book is appealing with it's creative word choice and playful illustrations. It's also just plain cute and enjoyable. Keeping this book in my classroom would be an advisable idea as I am always promoting the use of descriptive, clever words. It helps with expression, originality, voice and gives children confidence in their vocabulary and can help them develop into better writers. It would be fun to have the students think of more inventive words that they can use to describe themselves, their friends and other mundane situations that can actually be described as not-so-boring after all!
Somerville, Mass. : Candlewick Press, 2012.
July 21, 2012
Monkey and Elephant by Carole Lexa Schaefer, illustrated by Galia Bernstein is a story of two friends who don't agree all the time.
Bernstein's illustrations were created digitally and emphasize the humor in the story. The facial features are expressive, particularly the eys. My favorite images are scampered, away together, too much, both singing, scary, quiet!, and final image.
This easy to read, humorous story in chapter book format will appeal to picturebook readers ready to begin short chapter books. The large bold font makes this a great choice for transitional readers and for reading aloud. Recommended for school and public library collections.
For ages 5 to 8, animal stories, friendship, humor, beginning reader, easy chapter book, and fans of Carole Lexa Schaefer and Galia Bernstein.
Bernstein's illustrations were created digitally and emphasize the humor in the story. The facial features are expressive, particularly the eys. My favorite images are scampered, away together, too much, both singing, scary, quiet!, and final image.
This easy to read, humorous story in chapter book format will appeal to picturebook readers ready to begin short chapter books. The large bold font makes this a great choice for transitional readers and for reading aloud. Recommended for school and public library collections.
For ages 5 to 8, animal stories, friendship, humor, beginning reader, easy chapter book, and fans of Carole Lexa Schaefer and Galia Bernstein.
hikedigitalbookshelf
November 16, 2012Monkey and Elephant are two very good friends with two very different personalities. When they set out for shade in a very hot jungle they start bickering about what the other one is doing. Will these two unlikely pals make it to shade before they become no longer friends.
This book is aimed at the newly independent readers. Although it is suitable for younger grades I think it would be a good book for older students who struggle with reading. It is filled with crazy adjectives, action words, and graphic illustrations to please many kids.
I think this would be a good book for my classroom bookshelf because even if my students are older it is always nice to have an easy entertaining read from time to time. I really liked how the book has crazy adjectives and action words - this will help increase their lexicon.
Schaefer, C. L., & Bernstein, G. (2012). Monkey and Elephant. Somerville, Mass.: Candlewick Press.
This book is aimed at the newly independent readers. Although it is suitable for younger grades I think it would be a good book for older students who struggle with reading. It is filled with crazy adjectives, action words, and graphic illustrations to please many kids.
I think this would be a good book for my classroom bookshelf because even if my students are older it is always nice to have an easy entertaining read from time to time. I really liked how the book has crazy adjectives and action words - this will help increase their lexicon.
Schaefer, C. L., & Bernstein, G. (2012). Monkey and Elephant. Somerville, Mass.: Candlewick Press.
July 26, 2012
Monkey and Elephant are friends. But they are not exactly at their best in this chapter adventure for young readers. For it is extremely, irritatingly HOT, HOT, HOT. And the day is ripe for complaining and whining. Can these two friends make the best of an impossibly hot day? In the first chapter, Monkey and Elephant start off on their journey to find a shade tree. Before long, both are too thirsty...a puddle only provides temporary relief. In the second chapter, the two sing songs to one another. In the third chapter, the walk continues. Elephant is able to 'protect' his friend, Monkey, from some unfriendly animals. They finally reach the shade...
Essentially one big story broken into three small segments...
I liked it.
Essentially one big story broken into three small segments...
I liked it.
June 3, 2012
From the mouth of my 7-year old...
It is about a Monkey and an Elephant in 3 chapters. The Monkey and Elephant are friends. They need to find shade. They sing and they protect each other.
Her thoughts: It was funny! It was easy for me to read. The pictures were great. Have you read it? Did you like it?
My thoughts: I enjoyed listening to her read this to me. She read right through it easily, and really liked that she had read a chapter book in one sitting! She was so proud of her reading skills! :) I also enjoyed the drawings which were done so simply in both the drawing and color! They're very appealing! I fun, quick read for my little reader.
It is about a Monkey and an Elephant in 3 chapters. The Monkey and Elephant are friends. They need to find shade. They sing and they protect each other.
Her thoughts: It was funny! It was easy for me to read. The pictures were great. Have you read it? Did you like it?
My thoughts: I enjoyed listening to her read this to me. She read right through it easily, and really liked that she had read a chapter book in one sitting! She was so proud of her reading skills! :) I also enjoyed the drawings which were done so simply in both the drawing and color! They're very appealing! I fun, quick read for my little reader.
November 3, 2012
This is a short chapter book (3 chapters) about a Monkey and an Elephant who are best friends. They have to find shade where they live. They protect one another by singing, and it shows how important friendship is using the characters' well thought-out emotions and feelings.
This book is good for ages 5 and up.
It is a chapter book, but one that is very easy to read. Students can easily follow it, and will really enjoy the friendship that the two animals have.
It could be a great lesson about climates, or about friendship.
This book is good for ages 5 and up.
It is a chapter book, but one that is very easy to read. Students can easily follow it, and will really enjoy the friendship that the two animals have.
It could be a great lesson about climates, or about friendship.
December 9, 2015
In this simple story told in three chapters, good friends Elephant and Monkey go in search for shade so they can cool off. But they start to get on each other's nerves pretty quickly since Monkey moves too slowly for Elephant and Elephant moves too quickly for Monkey. Even when they stop for water, Monkey drinks it too slowly, too daintily, while Elephant splooshes all the water in a puddle all over them. They end up singing songs and having fun again before Monkey is threatened by three wildcats who have their eyes on him for a snack.
July 5, 2012
This is the perfect book for students who are hesitant to start chapter books. Bright colorful pictures fill most of every page, while the writing quantity still picks up a bit more from a typical picture book. Also, written in chapter book format which gives children that confidence that they are working toward reading at a higher level.
April 3, 2012
The friendship of monkey and elephant is tested on a hot jungle day ! Great vocabulary for emerging young readers, evolking smiles and giggles, encompassed in three early chapters. Fun book to amplify with sound effects and is neither "too long or too short" it's just right. Reviewer 3.
May 18, 2012
I often wish I had more "beginning chapter book" options than Danny & the DInosaur, Henry & Mudge, and the Mr. Putter & Tabby series. This is the answer to all of my wishes. Now if I can only convince our school to get a set of them...
June 16, 2013
I picked this up because it's an easy chapter book that I thought my daughter would enjoy reading herself. She thought it was okay. The illustrations are cute, but the story is boring and the vocabulary is too simple.
March 22, 2012
Enjoyable friendship story.
May 18, 2012
Really fun easyreader/early chapter book. LOVE the illustrations.
June 23, 2012
Sweet, silly story about a unique friendship. Good for emerging readers.
June 29, 2012
Monkey & elephant get along in spirals their differences.
July 8, 2012
Monkey and Elephant are the best of friends even though they don't always agree on everything. This short, three chapter book tells the tale of the two friends looking for shade.
November 1, 2012
Monkey and Elephant are friends who are very different. Sweet story.
February 8, 2014
early reader
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews