AN INDIE NEXT PICK AND AN AMAZON BEST BOOK OF THE MONTH!
#1 bestselling author James Patterson and award-winning author Ellen
Banda-Aaku deliver an unforgettable story of a girl, an elephant, and
their life-changing friendship--perfect for fans of The One and Only
Ivan, Pax, and Because of Winn-Dixie.
Clever, sensitive Jama likes elephants better than people. While her
classmates gossip--especially about the new boy, Leku--twelve-year-old
Jama takes refuge at the watering hole outside her village. There she
befriends a baby elephant she names Mbegu, Swahili for seed.
When Mbegu's mother, frightened by poachers, stampedes, Jama and Mbegu
are blamed for two deaths--one elephant and one human. Now Leku, whose
mysterious and imposing father is head ranger at the conservancy, may be
their only lifeline.
Inspired by true events, The Elephant Girl is a moving exploration of
the bonds between creatures and the power of belonging.
"Emotionally thrilling and richly satisfying." - Kirkus Reviews
"This powerful novel ...is thoroughly grounded in Jama's bravery, moral
strength, and genuine love for the animals that share her home." -
Publishers Weekly