Elki is Not My Dog

Elki is not my dog is a story about kindness and community and has an important message for everyone.

In this beautiful book we meet Elki, a dog who wanders into a community and is noticed by the local children. Elki soon becomes an important part of the children's lives but has no home. Elki enjoys the seasons with the children and the illustrations tell the story in more detail with Elki and the children enjoying snow, sunshine and fun times together until... Elki is found hurt and scared. The children work together to help Elki, even though she is not their dog, and together they show her compassion and kindness until she recovers and joins them in their games once more.

This book oozes understanding, care and kindness and was shared by a class of 6-7 year olds who listened with smiles and affection for Elki is not my dog!

Picture book / Reviewed by Maria, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+

Elki is Not my Dog is a simple story about a dog who has no home or family, but makes friends with the children in block of flats, who play with her through the changing seasons. Then one day Elki is not there and the children begin to worry. Poor Elki has been trapped under something heavy in a disused building. The children take her into their block of flats and nurse her back to health. Normal service soon resumes and the children reflect on the fact Elki is not THEIR dog. Rather, she belongs to the whole community and they are all HER people.

It's a sweet little story with simple illustrations. It presents a good message about looking after the disadvantaged animals around us and the unexpected joy an adopted pet can bring. It will have a place on a classroom bookshelf or in a school library where children can read, enjoy it and then put it back for other children to find.

Picture book / Reviewed by Wendy Kelly, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+