Poems and illustrations from childhood can have memorable images and sounds which stay with us for a lifetime. Some of the poems have a spiritual quality; a sense of morality and highlight the importance of spending time with loved ones. They also emphasise the value of ‘small things’ and nature. Young people can often express wisdom beyond their years.Naturalistic illustrations are used in contrast to the familiar, brightly coloured, naïve drawings that are currently popular. The gentle calming images aim to complement and reflect the thought-provoking poetry making it suitable for bedtime reading. Either one or more poems can be read depending on time available, age or concentration of the child. Some illustrations are based on observations from nature and firsthand experiences, in and around the southwest of England. In contrast, there is an introduction to wild animals not native to the UK, i.e., elephant, sea eagle and giraffe.Some of the poems aim to encourage children to enjoy and engage with nature and increase their knowledge (i.e., factual inserts in text). It has been noted that children, in general, lack knowledge and experience of the natural world, unlike their predecessors. By seeking to introduce children to nature, outdoor interests, and experiences, it is hoped this in some way may go towards counteracting a sedentary lifestyle and avoid associated health problems. The book looks to encourage adults and children to read together; to discuss, to observe and explore questions that may arise.Information boxes give factual information about nature, animals, and plants to complement the poems.
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4 reviews
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This collection of poems created by Gaynor Bailey, focus on our relationship with each other and the natural world we all live in. Bringing together elements of nature, both familiar and exotic, these poems can be used as a basis for thoughtful discussions about the connections we forge and the importance of love and kindness. Each poem is beautifully illustrated by Helen Roberts.
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What a joy to read The Eye of The Elephant to my young granddaughter. She loved it. With such thought provoking poems capturing her imagination along with the beautifully brightly coloured illustrations creating excitement and discussion as she discovered more about nature, animals and their surroundings. The fun facts at the back of the book were absolutely brilliant.
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I was given a copy of The Eye of the Elephant to read as a teacher of over 40 years.
I found the poems thought provoking and felt that they captured an essence of joy, especially for the younger readers was aimed at. the book The animal poems remaided me a little of Ted Hughes, especially the Eye of the Elephant. The illustrations were outstanding and reflected the message of each poem and added to them. In the Colors poem, the print size on page 7 was smaller and this
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A beautiful poetry book with gorgeous illustrations.
A great book to keep on the book shelf and reach for to enjoy reading with your child.
Reminds us to look around and appreciate nature, animals, plants and how important all these things are for children to experience and adults alike.
My daughter is 10 and thoroughly enjoyed reading the poems and looking at the artwork.
It brought a sense of calm and reflective thought.
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