Elmer by David McKee (10-book set)

Elmer is different. He isn’t elephant colour. In actual fact, he’s a whole patchwork of rainbow colours.

In the first story, Elmer longs to look the same as all the other elephants, so he finds a large bush full of berries that he uses to camouflage his lovely patchwork. But some things can’t be hidden by berry juice. Elmer is still a joker inside. It isn’t long before he gives himself away. The other elephants are so delighted by the trick that every year on the same day they will celebrate the right for all elephants to show their true colours.

Elmer is a story of acceptance – self-acceptance, and respect for the differences between people – that speaks to its audience. Since the first book was published in 1989, Elmer’s world has grown to include a cast of regular characters from Elmer’s cousin Wilbur to the hippos and crocodiles who share their jungle home. There are now more than 30 titles in the series as well as board-books and toys and Elmer merchandise. Today, a new generation of children is being introduced to the stories by parents who loved the early titles in their own childhood.

Acceptance

Many of the titles include variations on the original theme of acceptance. In Elmer’s Special Day, for example, the other jungle animals complain about the elephants’ noisy preparations for the Elmer Day celebrations. When Elmer digs a bit deeper, he finds out that they feel excluded. The invitation is extended to include everyone, although they are asked to wear some form of elephant mask. This would be a brilliant starting point for debate. It can be hard for children (especially when they pick up on so many influences) to understand why celebrations of specific cultures, or LGBTQA+ Pride don’t extend to everyone. Can’t we ALL be proud of ourselves? The answer is yes, but those celebrations also began for deeper reasons. Understanding why some celebrations centre around a minority is important – and doesn’t have to be confusing if only we talk about it with children from early on.

Elmer and the Stranger, meanwhile, builds on the theme of self-belief. Kangaroo is certain he isn’t good enough to compete in a jumping competition. ‘But you were jumping beautifully,’ says Elmer. Kangaroo says that was just bouncing. Jumping is something different. This story will resonate with all creatives – when we focus only on end goals (winning a competition, getting an agent, seeing work in print) the pressure we put upon ourselves makes it harder to do the thing we love. Bouncing is to jumping what doodling is to drawing. By believing that his own hobby is worthwhile, and not questioning whether he can be a winner, Kangaroo puts in the practice he needs to succeed.

Where to start

The first title in the series, Elmer, is included in a 10-book set from Books2Door. The selection introduces different characters and includes a good mix of titles from the series. What better way to get started?

Art

The bright and lively illustrations in Elmer are perfect for inspiring artwork.

Why not sketch some crocodiles in different positions? Or create a snowy background, looking at the pictures in Elmer in the Snow to see how many colours there really are in snow and ice? Or how about looking at all the fantastical trees and bushes, grasses and other plants across the series before drawing some of your own? The illustrations tell us so much in each story, especially about the characters, but they are also an invaluable source of inspiration for young and aspiring artists.

From strong themes to beautiful artwork, Elmer remains as popular now as he was 30 years ago. There is something different to see in the books at every reading and the stories are an absolute must.

(Received for review from Books2Door)