My Elephant Is Blue
written by Melinda Szymanik
illustrated by Vasanti Unka
Children sometimes have trouble verbalizing their feelings and managing them. My Elephant Is Blue was written to help children deal with sadness. “Big, heavy feelings” are represented by the crushing weight of the elephant Blue. The child’s family members try to help in various ways, and gradually the child does feel the weight of sadness lifting. This is Mental Health Awareness month, and My Elephant Is Blue is one of many picture books published by Flyaway Books to help young children and their families deal with emotions.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Rating: 4/5
Category: Children’s Fiction, Health
Notes: 1. Ages 3-7
2. Supporting resources linked to this book are found at http://www.flyawaybooks.com/resources. There is a Discussion and Activity Guide that helps the reader understand the symbolism in the book. This guide includes Discussion Starters, Activities, a list with links of organizations that offer support, and a coloring sheet. There is also a book trailer if you would like a preview of the book.
Publication: April 11, 2023—Flyaway Books
Memorable Lines:
They said, “Perhaps if you cheered up a bit…or smiled at it.” But it’s hard to cheer up or smile with an elephant sitting on your chest.
“It’s an elephant,” Mom and Dad said. “Surely it can’t stay forever. It’s bound to move on sometime.” I hoped sometime was soon.
education pathways 
Sounds like a great book for young children!
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I agree, but they would definitely need to work through it with an adult. I was thankful that they did not use the word depression. I realize kids can have an overwhelming sadness that can’t be ignored, but I think sometimes adults create problems in young children by labeling the kids and putting them in “boxes” and by talking to others about issues in front of children who are too young to process them. This book shows caring, positive parents.
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Yes, I agree, thanks Linda~
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I like that first quote you highlighted, Linda. So many people think feelings of anxiety, depression, sadness etc. can just be turned off when they can’t. Nice review. I have read a few Flyaway books and like their take on feelings for kids.
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Thanks, Carla. Books can be such a good tool for helping kids and adults navigate the hard times.
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