Thunder: An Elephant’s Journey by author Erik Daniel Shein is a cute children’s book that should please young readers and educate them on animal struggles in the rainforest in a non-threatening way. Thunder, a young elephant with a huge heart, gets separated from his mother and his elephant herd. Along the way back to find his mother, Thunder meets various animals in the rainforest, including a friendly butterfly, talking monkeys, Penelope the Parrot, a flamingo, bats, egrets, and a rhinoceros. All of Thunder’s animal friends have distinct personalities and fun voices. Through these animals and Thunder’s own adventures, children will learn important lessons about life and friendships.

There is, however, a more serious side to Thunder: An Elephant’s Journey that takes a look at illegal poaching and endangerment of animals. Also touched on is the decaying rainforest and the loss of the vast beauty of that environment. Drago the Poacher is always behind Thunder, and a few times, he almost catches the elephant and his friends. There is always a question about the safety of the animals, but author Erik Daniel Shein keeps the balance just right for young readers. There is an obvious point here about animal endangerment and the dangers of the rainforest, but it is light in most cases, and should please and educate readers in the intended age group. I recommend this book! ( )