How did Gerald break his trunk? It is a long crazy story involving a hippo, a rhino, hippo’s sister, and a piano. Gerald balances all these heavy things on his trunk, but that’s not how he broke it!

So, I follow the School Library Journal blog Heavy Medal, (which is, I think, the best mock Newbery blog) and they had a pretty strong argument for why this book, which contains maybe 50 words, should be a contender for this year’s Newbery. Seriously! They put it on their short list. It has great characters, a funny plot, and, they say it’s unquestionably the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children ages 2-8. And, of course, it’s really funny and you want to read it over and over again taking turns being Elephant and Piggie. ( )

This helps students think about things before they do them, so they don't break any bones. However, if they break a bone, this book also shows them how they should consider being very careful in everything they do.

A funny and easy read for children. Kids can see their goofiness inside a book. ( )

Gerald has a broken trunk, and it's a long story, and it's not what you think. ( )

Cute, funny story. Great for primary grades and sequencing.