Tusk Tusk by David McKee

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Tusk Tusk by David McKee.jpg

Tusk Tusk was written by David McKee. It is a 32 pages picture book that was first published by Andersen Press in 1978. The book tells a story of two elephants, who are white and black, that hate each other. The book intends to develop an awareness of similarities and differences among children.

Summary

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The story tells about the elephants came in two colors: black or white. They loved all other creatures - but each set wanted to exterminate the elephants that were not the same as themselves. Peace-loving individuals ran and hid in the deepest jungle, and battle commenced. The war-mongers all succeeded. For a long time, it seemed that there were no elephants in the world at all, not of any colour. But then the descendants of the peace-loving ones emerged from the jungle, and by now they were all grey. [1]

Pros

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According to Publisher Weekly, McKee incorporates several witty touches in clear and bold illustrations that celebrate shape and color: the elephants' trunks become weapons, the darkest jungle is portrayed as a giant maze. Although the book stands on its own merit, it might also offer an excellent point of departure for discussion between parent and child.[2]

Another reviewer also mentions that David McKee is perhaps best known for his much-loved Elmer books but this creation, dating back to 1978, shows elephants in a much different light. They also mention that this book is about racism and not liking other people because they look different.[3] Tusk Tusk is revealing a lopsided mindset of human society Even though it's simple in its presentation, it contains a depth that explores social prejudices of the world over.

References