Thirsty, Thirsty Elephants

Written by Sandra Markle · Illustrated by Fabricio VandenBroeck

A drought-stricken elephant herd seeks water, guided by a matriarch's memory.

4.1 Goodreads · 173 ratings

32 pages· 547 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud· AD610L

$16.99Save 7%

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Bookroo's summary

In drought-ridden Tanzania, Grandma Elephant leads her herd on a desperate quest for water. Little Calf mimics her every move, learning the power of memory and survival. When Grandma recalls a distant watering hole, hope is renewed. Will her memory save them all? Discover the true story of resilience and the bond between generations.

From the publisher

Elephants never forget

During a drought in Tanzania, Grandma Elephant is in search of water for her herd. Little Calf follows along and mimics her grandmother at each stop on their journey. When Grandma leads them to a watering hole she recalls from years before, the elephants are overjoyed and Little Calf splashes about with her tender leader. Grandma’s persistence and powerful memory is something Little Calf will never forget. Based on true events.

Sandra Markle’s acclaimed nonfiction writing takes on a more lyrical style alongside Fabricio VandenBroeck’s gorgeous illustrations making this story of animal behavior accessible for younger readers.

Back matter includes further information about the phenomenon of a herd of elephants that survived a drought, as well as fascinating elephant facts.

At a glance