Élmar

Deep in the heart of the Bornean jungle, a little elephant named Élmar wakes up alone. Determined to find his mother, he embarks on a journey through the lush tropical forest. However, his path is far from easy: his clumsy, reckless wandering leads to friction and misunderstandings with the many animals that call the jungle home. What starts as a physical quest soon becomes an emotional one, as the little protagonist confronts, for the very first time, the critical stares and judgments of others.
Following an exhausting day filled with conflict, relief comes with the long-awaited reunion with his mother. It’s in her embrace that the heart of the story emerges: when he confesses his sadness over the criticism he faced, she imparts a powerful lesson in resilience. She teaches him that above the prejudices and surface-level opinions of others, what truly defines a person is their inner world: their imagination, their unique talents, and the unconditional love of those who truly know them.
Brought to life through Emilio Urberuaga’s vibrant illustrations, Élmar becomes a testament to self-confidence, reminding us that our worth isn’t determined by others’ expectations, but by our ability to stand tall and trust in our own abilities.

Key points

• Emilio Urberuaga, winner of the National Illustration Prize, contributes his signature vibrant style—one that has earned him international acclaim.
• An ideal resource for Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), addressing how children develop self-concept amidst the pressures of social judgment.
• It shines a light on a pressing modern issue: our tendency to overvalue external validation.
• With its classic picture book format and stunning visuals, it beautifully portrays the richness of the jungle and the endearing nature of its hero.