When the Elephant Walks [Board book]

A charming circular story where the tiniest animal just might be the most powerful.

When the Elephant walks, he scares the Bear. When the Bear runs away, he scares the Crocodile. When the Crocodile swims for his life, he scares the Wild Hog . . . and so on, down to the Mouse. And who could be scared of the little Mouse? The last spread answers this question in a way that will delight small children-and the endearing animals, rhythmic text, and hilarious illustrations will make this book a favorite. An unpretentious, thoroughly engaging book. . . Just right for use with preschoolers. (The Horn Book)

Kasza brings delicious humor to this wonderfully simple tale. . . . A gem to share. (Kirkus Reviews, pointer review)

Young children will giggle at the absurdity of the conclusion of this humorous story. . . Sure to be a poopular choice for preschoolers and beginning readers. (School Library Journal)

Keiko Kasza was born on a small Japanese island in the Inland Sea of Japan. She grew up in a typical Japanese extended family with her parents, two brothers, and grandparents. Uncles, aunts, and cousins also lived nearby. All the steps I took growing up were very normal, Ms. Kasza says. The only unusual thing I did was go to college in the United States. She graduated with a degree in graphic design from California State University at Northridge. Ms. Kasza married an American, and the United States has been her home ever since.

After publishing five children's books in Japan and working as a graphic designer for fourteen years, Ms. Kasza decided in 1988 to devote her time to picture books. She says, Having two small boys and two professions was too much to handle.

Ms. Kasza admires many great picture-book creators, such as Leo Lionni and Maurice Sendak, but says that the work of Arnold Lobel has influenced her the most. The subtle humor and warmth he created in his books continues to inspire me, she says. I lc1