Just So Stories

Red Back Publishing

April 2024

ISBN: 9781761400247

RRP: $26.99

Just a few weeks ago, I had the absolute pleasure of a lunch with some amazing people including award-winning illustrator Sandra Severgnini, who graciously gifted each of us a copy of this adorable and very special book, which was inspired by the real-life bond between elephant siblings, Tukta and Jai Dee.

Jai Dee’s first day at jungle school, and his eagerness to make friends and share what makes an elephant special will completely capture the hearts of your young readers. They will no doubt already think elephants are pretty awesome but when they find out exactly what an elephant can do with its trunk and big flappy ears, or why its skin is so wrinkly, they will be doubly fascinated. Excited… worried… curious… shy… brave… scared… protective… grateful… proud... Jai Dee will become a firm favourite with your Smalls.

Sandra’s stunning illustrations also capture other critter inhabitants of South-eastern Asian jungles, both large and small and these are identified in a glorious double spread so that children can learn their names. There is also some useful factual back matter on the main animals featured in the story, Jai Dee’s classmates at jungle school, as well as a photo of the real Jai Dee and his big sister, Tukta.

Lucy Melo is the senior keeper at Taronga Zoo and the text put together by both she and Sandra is simple, but engaging and altogether, making this a thoroughly satisfying and attractive package. The overall design and execution is just perfect – I revelled in the glossy pages and the chosen font which really elevate this along with the text and illustrations to a stunning level.

But wait! you want more? How about the fact that 100% of the net royalties of this book will go directly to support elephant conservation and protection? That’s what I call a book with real heart 💙.

It makes for a beautiful shared story, but also a grand accompaniment to your unit of enquiry on animals or environmental issues or near-neighbours. The addition of some teaching notes is a bonus for educators. I’m giving this a jumbo-sized 5 🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘 rating for your Smalls from prep upwards.

Taronga’s elephant calf gets a name with heart