Elki Is Not My Dog

Elena Arevalo MelvilleClick here for biography

Tonka UzuClick here for biography

 

When a small group of children befriend a stray dog, the entire community is inspired to become involved.

Elki does not have a home – she is a stray dog who finds kindness in the company of a little group of children. They play together during the day, but Elki must stay alone outside every night because dogs are not allowed in their block of flats. One day Elki disappears and is found injured. Who will look after her and how?

• Shows how one act of kindness can change the attitude of other people
• An uplifting book about feeling empathy for someone in need and taking action to help
• An example of how good citizenship should work, where the duty of caring is owned by everybody
• Gentle illustrations set the scene and beautifully show the bond between Elki and her found family
• Elena wrote the story for her fellow artist and friend Tonka Uzu whose childhood memory this is

 

Praise for this book:

'A book that speaks of the endlessly good and pure nature of children, of their empathy and their understanding. This is a beautifully subtle tale of community, with Elki representing the outsider, lonely and unable to communicate. Despite this, she is welcomed into the community of the children and she is taken care of.' INIS magazine (Children's Books Ireland)

'This is a story which demonstrates the importance of friendship, kindness, empathy and being a good citizen. It shows us how important it continues to be for children to have the freedom to be children, to play, to learn, to discover and most importantly it brings us hope ... Simple. Stunning.' Armadillo

'A beautifully warm-hearted story about a dog and the group of children who adopt it.' Love Reading - A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month

'This is a gorgeous story of belonging… I love the way it is the children who take action in this story, who demonstrate the power of kindness and community. The warm and gentle illustrations capture the friendship between the children and Elki beautifully.' Juno Magazine

'The wonderful illustrations and charming characters carry children through Elki's story and encourage them to think about things from an animal's point of view, considering compassion and the care a dog needs. The expressions of the characters enhance the empathy and kindness theme which, runs through the book. At the end is a positive message for children about Elki belonging and being part of a big family. The book suits children 4 years and up.' School Reading List

 

Other books by Elena Arevalo Melville

Umbrella

 

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