As she keeps exploring, Lilly encounters an eleffump, which is what she called elephants when she was very young. When questioned by Lilly, the eleffump confirms that it cannot jump, but the lumbering animal does not sound upset. Instead, it kindly helps Lilly reframe her question: “So, it’s not about what we can’t do, but what we can do that makes us special?” With this guiding thought, the eleffump introduces Lilly to magical creatures in the forest who all have unique abilities, and they work together to achieve a common goal that will benefit everyone. This will encourage kids to look at their own strengths and how they can be useful to the world around them.
Anil Yap’s lively illustrations follow Lilly on her journey, showing her as she prepares for her trip, leaves her neighborhood, and ventures into the colorful, shimmering magical forest. Teeming with butterflies, bees, and other wildlife, the forest is vibrant and welcoming, particularly the ethereal, glowing eleffump, which grins and lets Lilly hold its trunk as they walk side by side. Each creature is also clearly shown alongside an explanation of its special skills, drawing a parallel between this fantasy world and the real people kids will meet.
Takeaway: A girl named Lilly explores a magical forest and learns the power of being different.
Comparable Titles: Bess Kalb’s
Production grades
Cover: A-
Design and typography: A-
Illustrations: A-
Editing: B
Marketing copy: B
