Elmer, The Patchwork Elephant by David Mckee is a very light-hearted story. It is about Elmer,
the elephant who is not elephant color, instead is a beautiful kaleidoscope of different colors like
red, blue, green, black, white, yellow. He is a patchwork.
Elmer is different. But he is valued and accepted just like any other elephant. Elmer also has a
knack to make everyone laugh. He jokes with the other elephants and the other elephants joke
with him. He is a jolly elephant who is appreciated because of his difference and not in spite of
it.
Elmer is beautiful and he is loved. But he is loved because of his nature. This emphasizes how
inner beauty is more important. People are beautiful from the inside.
Children will love this book because of its gentle and playful plot. While giving a laugh, it also
teaches us how to embrace our differences and uniqueness and be proud of it. Being ordinary
and just like everyone is boring. The other elephants also make Elmer feel special and good
about his patchwork, making everyone understand how to appreciate others’ differences and not
bully them but make them feel special about it.
Anyone who reads this book will learn to value diversity and appreciate it. They will learn how
important it is to be true to yourself. You should not change yourself only to fit in. That is boring
and ordinary. Other values imparted are friendship, identity and belonging. Your crowd is the
one which makes you feel valued and celebrated, just the way you are.
David Mckee knows what kids love and what is appealing to them. With its bright illustrations
and bold colors, children are very keen and excited on reading this delightful book.
