This being a two star rating does not mean that I hated the book. It's honestly quite darling. BUT.....I only want to read it one time.

The elephant reminds me of an angsty teenager who. He's not sure he is noticed so he eats cheesecake and sighs at the clouds. Yes. I'm serious. He also tries to dress to impress. See the message that we are promoting?

So why do I say it is darling? Well, the illustrations are lovely in their soft pastels. It is a calming book. And in the midst of "in your face", subtlety is a good thing. ( )

"When an elephant falls in love, he does many foolish things." So begins the narrative of this charming little picture-book, which chronicles its elephant-hero's many besotted actions, from hiding behind trees when his beloved appears, to leaving flowers on her doorstep. Will she ever notice him, he wonders? Then she proves that she too can do foolish things...

Originally published in Italy as Quando un elefante si innamora, this delightful picture-book contains the third story I have read from author Davide Cali, but the first I have seen from illustrator Alice Lotti. It manages to be both humorous and heartwarming, with a simple but expressive text, and droll illustrations that capture the humor of the story. Recommended to all young elephant admirers, and to anyone who has ever fallen in love. ( )

This book revolves around what happens when an elephant falls in love and what an elephant does when he is in love. This includes things such as writing letters that he never gives to the one that that he loves and ultimately ends with him finding love when he sees her face to face. ( )

Awe the joys and pains of being in love. This book is a good book for early readers. The sentences are short and uncomplicated. The illustrations are clean and sweet. ( )

~ review copy provided

The artwork in WHEN AN ELEPHANT FALLS IN LOVE is adorable and sweet and so is the story which basically explains to younger children what crushes are all about. Readers get to see how an elephant in love can become distracted, and come to doubt themselves. All of the basics are here, including preening and trying to figure out the best things to wear and do.

There is currently no reading level information available so this is probably a book you will have to read to the really young. I might try it with a 3rd grade reading child.

Nothing objectionable. Might be a nice edition to school classroom shelves. ( )