Little Elliot, Big City

Written and illustrated by Mike Curato

Book #1 in the Little Elliot series

A small elephant finds joy and friendship in a bustling city.

5.0/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 2,502 ratings

40 pages· 171 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud· ~260L

$19.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In a city of towering buildings and bustling crowds, Little Elliot, a polka-dotted elephant, navigates life's challenges with quiet determination. Despite feeling overwhelmed, he finds delight in simple pleasures like cupcakes. When Elliot meets Mouse, a tiny companion with a big appetite, he discovers the sweetest treasure of all—friendship. As they explore the city together, Elliot learns that even the smallest of friends can make the biggest difference. Will their bond help Elliot overcome his fears and embrace the vibrant world around him?

From the publisher

Elliot the little elephant has a hard time with a lot of things in the city he loves until he meets Mouse, who is even smaller–and hungrier.

Awards

Ezra Jack Keats Honor (2015)

At a glance

Format
Pages: 40
Words: 171
Reading age: 4–8
Audience: Picture
Lexile: ~260L

Themes & topics

Books about helping others Books about New York Books about friendship Books about elephants Books about city and town life

Inside the book

A peek between the covers

What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.0

out of 7

5.3

“This book has beautiful illustrations. It is very fun as it is set in New York City. The story is darling about a little elephant that feels small until he finds someone even smaller than himself that he can help. It turns the story around to show how helping others and friendship can make our life meaningful.”

Mom of Boys

Trusted reviewer

The author & illustrator