The Magician's Elephant

Written by Kate DiCamillo · Illustrated by Yoko Tanaka

An orphan's quest for his sister hinges on a mysterious elephant.

3.9 Goodreads · 27,922 ratings

224 pages· 23,438 words· Est. 3.5 hour read· 730L· AR 5 · 4 AR pts

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Bookroo's summary

In the city of Baltese, orphan Peter Augustus Duchene seeks answers about his missing sister. A fortuneteller's cryptic prophecy—an elephant will lead him—sparks an extraordinary journey. As Peter navigates a world of wonder and impossibility, he must trust the unexpected to uncover the truth. Will the elephant truly guide him to his sister, or is it merely a fantastical illusion? This enchanting tale weaves themes of hope, belonging, and compassion, inviting readers to believe in the extraordinary.

From the publisher

A classic tale by Newbery Medalist Kate DiCamillo, America’s beloved storyteller

When a fortuneteller’s tent appears in the market square of the city of Baltese, orphan Peter Augustus Duchene knows the questions that he needs to ask: Does his sister still live? And if so, how can he find her? The fortuneteller’s mysterious answer (an elephant! An elephant will lead him there!) sets off a chain of events so remarkable, so impossible, that you will hardly dare to believe it’s true. With atmospheric illustrations by fine artist Yoko Tanaka, here is a dreamlike and captivating tale that could only be narrated by Newbery Medalist Kate DiCamillo. In this timeless fable, she evokes the largest of themes — hope and belonging, desire and compassion — with the lightness of a magician’s touch.

With dreamlike illustrations and a cover by Yoko Tanaka.

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