Recommended for toddlers at Jen Robinson's Book Page
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Elmer the patchwork elephant plays the peacemaker in this story, when the hippos take up residence in the elephants' river because theirs has dried up. Elmer goes to investigate and finds that a rockslide has dammed up the hippos' river; if they all work together, the work will go faster - hippos don't have trunks, Elmer points out - and the hippos and the elephants will each have their own rivers again. Everyone gets dusty moving the rocks, but all splash around together joyfully when the water is able to come through again. Through teamwork, friendly relations are established. ( )

This is story that teaches to help others regardless of differences. The illustrations are absolutely colorful and vibrant. This is an easy read for sypung children to understand. ( )

Summary: In this book the elephants were upset because Elmer the elephant said that he and the other elephants would share the river with the hippos. Elmer found that some rocks were blocking the water in the hippo’s river. He convinces the other elephants to help the hippos move the rocks. In the end the elephants and hippos become friends.

Personal Reaction: I like this book. I like this book because it teaches friendship as well as leadership. Elmer was kind and helpful and he led by example.

Extension: I would use this book in a lesson about friendship and kindness. And then have the students talk about their own experiences with helping people. ( )

Summary:
In this book the elephants were upset because Elmer said the hippos could share their river. Elmer found that some rocks were blocking the water in the hippo’s river. He convinces the elephants to help the hippos move the rocks. In the end the elephants and hippos become friends.
Personal Reaction:
I like this book. I think it tells a lot about friendship hand helping one another. I think this teaches a lesson in being selfless. Elmer was kind and helpful and he led by example.
Extension 1:
I would use this book in a lesson about friendship and kindness.
Extension 2:
I would use this book in a lesson on fantasy. ( )

When the hippos river dries up and the elephants get annoyed, Elmer gets everyone to help solve the problem. ( )