My bookshelf doesn’t usually hold children’s novels, unlike my daughters’ shelves that bow under the weight of their chapter books.  I’ve been (re)reading Peter Carnavas picture books, but was inexplicably drawn to his debut novel – and what a gem!  It tells the story of Olive, a young girl who lives with her father and grandfather.  Olive notices that her father always has a large gray elephant at his side and that it seems to weigh heavily on him. 

This book is a beautiful way of considering depression and sadness and how it impacts everyone in differently.  Peter Carnavas has such a gentle way about all of his books and his novel is no different.  His illustrations bring the story to life and are a welcome addition (though not necessarily needed as his words were flowing right off the page and into my consciousness.)  I couldn’t help but share this book with my older daughters, who devoured it in a only a few days.  It takes a gentle and compassionate soul to write such a beautiful book.  Please do yourself a favour and seek this one out. 

Happy reading!