The Memory of an Elephant: An Unforgettable Journey
What’s inside...
Memory and meaning are at the heart of this oversized, content-rich picture book celebrating the life of Marcel, a soulful elephant. From the towering buildings outside his window and his recollected world travels, to the friends, flora, and fauna that flourish around him, Marcel finds significance in his surroundings and, most importantly, in life's abundant details. Marcel is writing an encyclopedia, after all, and his entries are featured in full-page spreads packed with facts, elegantly situated alongside the story of his day and his life. Part story and part miscellany, this unforgettable book with dream-like illustrations will transfix both parents and children.
Age
5-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Marcel The Elephant
Discussion points
What do you think Marcel the elephant remembers most fondly from his many adventures?
How do the different objects in Marcel's collection tell stories about his life?
What can we learn from Marcel about the importance of memories in shaping who we are?
If you could keep one memory forever, what would it be and why?
How do you think Marcel felt as he looked back on his life? Can you relate to any of his feelings?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you explore the book with your child, show genuine interest in their responses to encourage deeper thinking.
Relate Marcel's memories to real-life experiences your child may have had to make the discussion more personal and meaningful.
Ask your child to describe their favorite illustration in the book and what they think it adds to Marcel's story.
Encourage your child to think about what memory they would share with others and why that memory is important to them.
Share a memory of your own that relates to a story or theme in the book to model reflective thinking and connect with your child.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Memory
Explanation: The protagonist, Marcel the elephant, uses his extensive memory to recount historical events and facts throughout the book, showing how memory serves as a bridge to the past.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to keep journals or memory boxes that help them treasure important life events, enhancing their ability to remember and recount their own histories.
Example Lesson: Value of Curiosity
Explanation: Marcel's adventures are driven by his curiosity about the world, which leads him to learn about various cultures and histories.
Real-World Application: Foster a curiosity-driven environment at home by encouraging questions and exploration, which can lead to a richer understanding of the world.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Diversity
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Marcel encounters various cultures and histories, each adding to his tapestry of knowledge, highlighting the beauty of diversity.
Real-World Application: Children can participate in cultural exchange activities, such as trying different cuisines or learning about other holidays, to develop an appreciation for diversity from a young age.
Example Lesson: Importance of Storytelling
Explanation: Marcel shares his knowledge through stories, effectively passing on wisdom and engaging others.
Real-World Application: Encourage children to tell their own stories or recount their day, which can improve their narrative skills and reinforce their understanding of the world around them.
Example Lesson: Lifelong Learning
Explanation: The book portrays Marcel continually learning, even later in life, demonstrating that learning is a lifelong process.
Real-World Application: Instill habits such as reading, puzzle-solving or engaging in new hobbies that emphasize continual learning and intellectual growth.