How the Elephant Got Its Trunk: A Retelling of the Rudyard Kipling Tale

How did elephants get their trunks? This imaginative tale offers up a most fantastical answer

“Hippopotamus!” little elephant called.
“Yes, little elephant, what can I do for you?”
“Excuse me, please, but could you tell me what the crocodile eats for dinner?”

Here is a story that takes place a long time ago, before elephants had trunks for noses . . . One day a very special elephant comes along—an unusually curious elephant—and she has an important question that she needs answered. Little does she know her question will lead to an amazing discovery.

This vibrant retelling of one of Rudyard Kipling’s beloved Just-So Stories is sure to be appreciated and enjoyed by young children. And don’t miss the fantastic gatefold where little elephant’s nose gets stretched from bump to trunk!

Jean Richards is an actress and the author of several children’s books, including God’s Gift, a Book-of-the-Month Club Main Selection, illustrated by Norman Gorbaty. She has recorded over 200 children’s books and is a graduate of the Yale Drama School. Ms. Richards hopes people will read this book aloud with lots of expression and many voices. She lives in New York City.

Norman Gorbaty is the illustrator of Earthdance and God’s Gift, among other books for young readers. An award-winning graphic designer, he received his master’s degree in fine arts from Yale University and has taught at several colleges and universities. Mr. Gorbaty lives in New York City with his wife, Joy.