Title: The Saggy Baggy Elephant
Author: Kathryn Jackson
First published January 1, 1947
24 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780307021106 (ISBN10: 0307021106)
Rating: 4.09
Overview
In the heart of the jungle, a jolly elephant named Sooki danced and played every day. But his big feet made the jungle shake every time he took a step.
One day, a parrot makes fun of Sooki’s wrinkled skin, long nose, and big ears, making him feel self-conscious. Feeling down, Sooki meets some beautiful creatures who look just like him, and they teach him to be proud of who he is.
With stunning illustrations by Gustaf Tenggren, the illustrator of many classic children’s books, The Saggy Baggy Elephant has been a beloved story for over 50 years that teaches children the importance of self-love and acceptance.
Editoral Review
The Saggy Baggy Elephant by Kathryn Jackson, first published in 1947, is a timeless classic for children of all ages. The author, Kathryn Jackson, was an American writer of children’s books who, along with her husband, authored over 100 titles during her lifetime.
The Saggy Baggy Elephant, one of Jackson’s most famous works, has been enjoyed by generations of children and parents alike. The book is a prime example of a children’s picture book, with its rich, beautifully illustrated pages and easy-to-follow storyline.
The narrative follows the journey of Sooki, the saggy baggy elephant, as he travels through the jungle, encountering a host of different animals, each with their own distinct personalities. Along the way, Sooki learns valuable lessons about self-acceptance and self-confidence, as he comes to terms with his saggy, baggy skin and discovers that he is not alone in his insecurities.
The characters in the book are well-developed and engaging, each with their own quirks and personality traits that add to the overall enjoyment of the story. The setting, too, is beautifully detailed, with lush, colorful landscapes that transport the reader into the heart of the jungle.
One of the most significant aspects of The Saggy Baggy Elephant is its cultural and historical significance. Not only does it address universal themes of self-acceptance and self-confidence, but it also touches on issues such as diversity and inclusion – themes that are just as relevant now as they were when the book was first published.
While the book is undoubtedly a classic, it does have its flaws. Some readers may find the storyline a little repetitive or predictable, and the themes and lessons may feel a little heavy-handed to some.
Nonetheless, these issues are relatively minor and do not detract from the overall enjoyment of the book. In conclusion, The Saggy Baggy Elephant by Kathryn Jackson is an essential read for anyone who loves children’s literature.
Its timeless themes and engaging storyline make it a classic that will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come. As such, it is highly recommended for parents, educators, and children alike.
While it may not be perfect, its strengths more than make up for any of its shortcomings. Therefore, we give it a solid four out of five stars.
