The pictures melted my heart. I read this story as a teenager quite accidentally when I stumbled upon the book in a used books exhibition. Right while I was reading it, a little boy came next to me and got very excited after seeing the pictures. I recited the story to him. He wanted the book. So, quite unwillingly, I parted with this beautiful book and gave him the only copy that I could find in the exhibition. I don't regret giving it to the little boy and I hope he's treasuring it well like I would have.

What I most loved in this simple yet rich textured book is that the story tugs at our heart through the warmth between the characters, Ah Mee and Tubby, the adorable pet elephant. As a kid, I was always fascinated with baby elephants and baby giraffes and wanted them as pets. This story makes me feel like a child again, grateful for the genuine love between animals and humans. Love the illustrations too. The fuzzy yellow refuses to leave my mind. On a mission to search for another copy if possible to find after all these years.

P.S. I came across the story on this website and almost squeaked with excitement. Read it here: http://www.michaelspornanimation.com/splog/?p=2975 ( )