A sweet and simple tale of compassion and sharing.

Elena is a baby Tapir with a taste for shiny, colorful shells. One day, a sneaky shell escapes from Elena’s impressive collection of wonderful seashells. Elena uses all her efforts to get it back but is faced with some big decisions about what is really important.

“Robbins’ bright, childlike illustrations and minimal text match the sweet simplicity of her tale. Both tapir and hermit crab are adorable. An important lesson deftly delivered.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Recommended. … A bold colourful illustrative technique will encourage all readers to look at the details presented on the page, ponder why Emma is a tapir, look more closely at shells and shell collecting, tapirs and hermit crabs, and try to draw some shells themselves, using the sparkling endpapers as a guide.” —ReadPlus (Australia)

The Author-illustrator

Rose Robbins is a children’s book author and illustrator currently residing in Nottingham, United Kingdom. She has been making books since the age of six when she received a stapler for her birthday. In addition to books, Rose makes ceramics, puppets, and felt and soft toys. She can be found either stuck in a story, or thinking about a new story—anything to get out of doing the dishes or the laundry.

Age Range: 5-8

RRP: HC: $9.95

ISBN: 978-1-76036-159-4

Juvenile Fiction / Social Themes / Values & Virtues