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Elmer's Friends

by David McKee

Interest age: 0+
Reading age: 5+

Published by Andersen Press, 1994

  • Board books
  • Classics
  • Picture books
  • Disability

About this book

A colourful board book in which the ever-popular Elmer the Elephant praises each of his friends for their different strengths. An ideal starting point for discussing the value of differences and individuality.

Elmer the patchwork elephant is a winning character in children's literature. A one-off and always fun, he has ideas to pass on within his stories.

About the author

David McKee was born and brought up in South Devon, where he went from grammar school to Plymouth Art College. Whilst still at college he started selling one-off cartoons to newspapers and on graduation, he began to contribute to such publications as Punch, the Times Education Supplement and Reader's Digest. His first book, Two Can Toucan, was published in 1964 and since then he has written and illustrated numerous children's books. Of his many beloved quirky characters, Elmer the Elephant and Mr Benn are possibly the most well-known. He died in April 2022, aged 87.

What to read next

We know that children can get hooked on a favourite book series or author and struggle to find something they love as much, but we’re here to help.

  • Elmer: what to read next

    Did you know that 23 May is Elmer Day? We love David McKee's patchwork pachyderm, but if you've read all the books, which other stories might you enjoy?

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