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The Elephant and the Tree

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Originally published in Singapore as part of the First-Time Writers and Illustrators Publishing Initiative, The Elephant and the Tree became an instant success, selling out its entire print run. Distinctly illustrated in black and green and orchestrated to a tuneful rhythm, this little picture book about the enduring friendship between an Asian Elephant and a tree promote friendship, conservationism, and ecological awareness. Not since The Giving Tree or Owen and Mzee has such a simple and heartwarming tale been crafted to teach young readers about the power of friendship, adventure, and discovery. The Elephant and the Tree is sure to become a classic beloved by generations of readers, inspiring loyalty and love, as well as encouraging children to think for themselves. A modern-day tale of friendship, this story is unique and not to be missed! The Elephant and the Tree is made with recycled materials.

48 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

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About the author

Jin Pyn Lee

3 books

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5 stars
18 (42%)
4 stars
13 (30%)
3 stars
5 (11%)
2 stars
5 (11%)
1 star
1 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
Profile Image for karen.
4,009 reviews173k followers
October 13, 2014
another sad book for children. gather round, kiddies, we are going to read about the elephant and the tree, and then we will read the giving tree, and then some sean tan books. then we are going to go to the old splintery playground on the concrete lot and play with some stones. then we will burn all our toys like in the velveteen rabbit! wheeeeeee - i love to shape young minds.
Profile Image for Tanti.
83 reviews
July 17, 2008
This is a beautiful book, with simple drawings, and a heart-breaking story about friendship between an elephant and a tree.
Profile Image for Mallory.
162 reviews3 followers
August 10, 2024
For those who thought The Giving Tree was a bit too cheery and needed a dead elephant.
Profile Image for Victor Johnson.
6 reviews2 followers
February 9, 2019
This is a beautiful and simple story. To people who speak of sadness as if it is a bad thing - nothing could be further from the truth. To create the idea in children’s minds that everything has to be “happy” is one of the worst things you can do. Genuine sadness and allowing the heart to open speaks to the true meaning of what it means to be human.
Profile Image for Sadie-Jane Huff.
2,093 reviews15 followers
June 7, 2021
Very moving. Very real. Love the pages with all the information about the elephants. Such a good way to share the save the elephants message with any generation..
Profile Image for Philia.
111 reviews
August 4, 2011
A delightful and simple story.

But with tremendous depth!

That's how much of our world is,

and it makes me sad!

But remember our strength,

and we can all bring a change!

Profile Image for Nisah Haron.
Author 27 books376 followers
December 10, 2012
Even though this is a children book, I almost cried at the end. The book is about friendship, lost and found, in a very special way. The illustration is very simple and yet, the book proves that it is not a beautifully illustrated book that makes a book memorable. It's the story!
1 review
March 25, 2013
Extremely powerful message for our future generations. It is up to the parents to educate and pass on the message to their children and hopefully they in turn pass it down to the next. Highly recommended and it is a must read for all and not only those nature and animal lovers!!!

Great work!!!
Profile Image for Amanda.
2,497 reviews10 followers
November 30, 2009
Minimalist illustrations are nice, but not really an interesting story or fun enough to keep a 3 y/o's attention.
Profile Image for Zatika.
Author 5 books24 followers
April 25, 2020
Such a sad story but I love the simple illustration done on black background.
Profile Image for Jasmine.
668 reviews64 followers
May 11, 2009
this is a great book for adults however a terrible book for children, poor moral lessons and such.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews