Why am I passionate about this?
I’ve been in love with animals my whole life. I loved them so much in fact, that I wished to become one, whether it was a sea otter, wild horse, or a dolphin. Today, I’m fortunate enough to not only write about animals, but I also advocate for their protection as an ambassador for Wild Tomorrow and Defenders of Wildlife. As co-founder of the Children’s Book Creators for Conservation, I help other children’s book writers and illustrators connect with conservation stories in the field. I hope you’re as inspired by these books as I am!
Hayley's book list on picture books about animals for young readers
Why did Hayley love this book?
I love true stories about animals. This is a beautiful story of a conservationist (Lawrence Anthony) who rescues a traumatized herd of elephants in danger of being killed. Tomsic and Hooper show us how compassion, kindness, and a little bit of patience can form the strongest of bonds.
Anthony was a well-known conservationist in South Africa who developed a special bond with these rescued elephants. His unique connection with these pachyderms has been passed down to new generations of elephants and the rangers who protect them.
The back matter offers more information about Lawrence Anthony, the elephants he protected, and the game reserve in South Africa where they and their offspring are thriving.
2 authors picked The Elephants Come Home as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, and 5.
The amazing true story of a herd of elephants, the man who saved them, and the miracle of love that brought them home.
One day in 1999, Lawrence Anthony and Francoise Malby hear that a herd of wild African elephants needs a new home. They welcome the elephants to their wildlife sanctuary-Thula Thula-with open arms. But the elephants are much less sure they want to stay. How will Lawrence prove to them that they are safe and loved? What follows is a gorgeously illustrated real-life story of a friendship . . . and the story of the miraculous way that…
- Coming soon!