Books with animals: Elephants
Elephants are a favorite subject in children’s literature, symbolizing wisdom and kindness. Families have voted on this collection of elephant books, which includes heartwarming tales and adventurous stories featuring these gentle giants.

1
Babar and His Children
1915
104
(By Jean de Brunhoff) In this classic story, King Babar faces the challenges of raising his children while keeping his kingdom in order. Through humor and gentle lessons, it explores themes of family life, responsibility, and the joys and trials of parenting.

2
Walt Disney’s Dumbo (A Little Golden Book)
1945
180
(By Walt Disney Company) Based on the classic Disney film, this Little Golden Book tells the story of Dumbo, the elephant with big ears who learns to embrace his uniqueness. It's a heartwarming tale of overcoming obstacles, discovering hidden talents, and finding one's place in the world.

3
Horton Hatches the Egg
1914
230
(By Dr. Seuss) Horton the elephant is tricked into sitting on an egg, but his dedication and patience lead to an amazing surprise. A classic Seuss tale about responsibility, perseverance, and doing the right thing.

4
Elephant Goes to School
1874
204
(By Jerry Smath) A young elephant faces the excitement and challenges of going to school for the first time. The book addresses common fears about school, including making new friends and fitting in, and encourages children to embrace new experiences with confidence and curiosity.

5
One Hundred and One Elephant Jokes
1808
159
(By Robert Blake) This fun-filled collection of jokes will have children laughing with a wide variety of elephant-themed humor. From silly puns to clever one-liners, the book offers a lighthearted approach to laughter and learning to enjoy the humor that surrounds us.

6
Babar Goes to School
1904
282
(By Laurent de Brunhoff) In this charming story, Babar, the beloved elephant king, attends school with his children, where they learn valuable lessons together. It’s a delightful tale of education, family, and growing up, teaching children the importance of learning and how fun it can be.

7
My Friend Is Sad (Elephant & Piggie, #2)
1875
268
(By Mo Willems) Gerald the elephant is feeling down, and his friend Piggie goes to great lengths to cheer him up. This story beautifully highlights the importance of friendship, empathy, and supporting those you care about, all in the humorous and lovable style of the Elephant & Piggie series.

8
Elephant: Chunky Animals (My Chunky Friend Story Book)
1787
207
(By Kay Massey) This book introduces children to elephants in a fun and engaging way, using chunky, colorful illustrations and simple text. It’s a perfect read for toddlers, teaching them about animals in a playful and interactive manner while celebrating the size and strength of elephants.

9
Five Minutes’ Peace
1811
262
(By Jill Murphy) This story features an elephant mother who seeks five minutes of peace but is constantly interrupted by her mischievous children. It’s a humorous and relatable tale for parents and children alike, celebrating the challenges and rewards of family life.

10
What To Do If an Elephant Stands On Your Foot
1660
127
(By Michelle Robinson) This quirky book humorously teaches children what to do if an elephant (or any big creature) stands on their foot. Through its silly scenarios, the story offers lighthearted lessons about handling uncomfortable situations with humor and grace.

11
The Elephant’s Child
1646
141
(By Rudyard Kipling) Part of Kipling's famous "Just So Stories," this tale explains how the elephant got its trunk. The whimsical narrative offers a lesson in curiosity and the consequences of asking too many questions, all wrapped up in a fun, imaginative story.

12
We Are in a Book! (Elephant & Piggie, #13)
1729
237
(By Mo Willems) In this unique installment, Gerald and Piggie discover that they are in a book and begin interacting with the readers. This creative and fun story teaches children about the joy of reading and the playful interaction between the characters and the audience.

13
Brave Baby Elephant
1514
134
(By Joslin Sesyle) A baby elephant faces his fears and proves that bravery comes in all sizes. The story encourages children to embrace their own courage, reminding them that even the smallest creatures can be heroes in their own way.

14
Horton Hears a Who!
1521
164
(By Dr. Seuss) Horton Hears a Who! by Dr. Seuss is a story about Horton the elephant, who discovers a tiny world living on a speck of dust. Despite being ridiculed by others, Horton is determined to protect the Whos, proving that even the smallest voices matter. This classic Seuss tale delivers an important message about tolerance, empathy, and standing up for what is right. Its whimsical rhymes and vibrant illustrations make it an enduring favorite for children and adults alike.

15
Elmer
1409
72
(By David McKee) Elmer is a colorful elephant who stands out from the rest of the herd, but he feels out of place and wishes he could blend in. This charming story celebrates uniqueness, self-acceptance, and the beauty of being different, with vibrant illustrations that captivate young readers.

16
Walt Disney’s Dumbo – Not So Fast!
1444
185
(By Walt Disney Company) In this Little Golden Book, Dumbo learns the value of patience and perseverance as he navigates the challenges of becoming a circus star. The story conveys a message of believing in oneself, and it’s an inspiring read for young children learning to face obstacles with courage.

17
That’s Not My Elephant
1405
154
(By Fiona Watt) This tactile board book allows children to explore different textures while learning about an elephant’s features. Each page features a new elephant, with engaging textures and simple text perfect for young children, making it an interactive learning experience.

18
Babar and Father Christmas
1435
190
(By Jean de Brunhoff) Babar, the elephant king, travels to the North Pole to meet Father Christmas and help him prepare for the holidays. This festive tale is filled with holiday cheer, highlighting the values of giving, kindness, and family during the Christmas season.

19
Babar and Zephir
1389
145
(By Jean de Brunhoff) This story follows Babar, the king of elephants, and his clever monkey friend Zephir as they embark on various adventures. Their friendship highlights the values of teamwork, loyalty, and the power of overcoming challenges together.

20
Ella the Elegant Elephant
1260
73
(By Carmela D'Amico) Ella is a charming elephant with impeccable manners, but when a new elephant arrives who isn't as well-behaved, Ella learns that being elegant is about kindness and understanding, not perfection. This heartwarming story is a gentle reminder about compassion and the importance of being kind.

21
The Travels of Babar (Babar, #2)
1291
124
(By Jean de Brunhoff) In this classic sequel, Babar embarks on a journey to faraway lands with his children, teaching young readers about adventure, the joy of discovery, and the importance of family. This beautifully illustrated book is a beloved continuation of Babar’s adventures around the world.

22
Thunder (Thunder: An Elephant’s Journey, #1)
1165
75
(By Erik Daniel Shein) Thunder, a young elephant, embarks on an emotional and adventurous journey to find his family, learning valuable lessons about courage, self-reliance, and the power of resilience. This heartwarming story is filled with lessons about the importance of family and determination.

23
Elephants Cannot Dance! (Elephant & Piggie, #9)
1136
102
(By Mo Willems) In this hilarious installment of the Elephant & Piggie series, Gerald the elephant desperately tries to dance, only to find that it’s harder than he thought. The book teaches kids about persistence, self-confidence, and accepting that not everything comes easily but can still be fun.

24
Stand Back, Said the Elephant, “I’m Going to Sneeze!”
944
107
(By Patricia Thomas) When a big elephant catches a cold, a hilarious chain of events ensues as he warns others before sneezing. The story is a delightful exploration of how a small action can lead to big consequences, with a gentle lesson about the importance of being considerate of others.

25
The Story of Babar
924
110
(By Jean de Brunhoff) The Story of Babar by Jean de Brunhoff is the classic tale of an elephant named Babar who becomes king of the elephants after the death of his mother. Babar’s journey is one of growth, responsibility, and leadership. The story's timeless themes of bravery, kindness, and the importance of family make it a beloved classic in children’s literature.

26
When I Grow Up-P.J. Style
914
118
(By Philip Simpkins) This whimsical story follows a young elephant as he dreams of what he might become when he grows up. The book encourages imagination and creativity, offering children the freedom to envision their futures while teaching about the importance of curiosity and exploration.

27
Uncle Elephant
742
48
(By Arnold Lobel) Uncle Elephant takes care of his young nephew as they embark on a heartwarming journey of discovery and adventure. The book is filled with themes of family love, the bond between generations, and the lessons passed down through caring relationships.

28
The Magician’s Elephant
683
52
(By Kate DiCamillo) This enchanting novel tells the story of a boy who believes that an elephant, seemingly brought to life by magic, will bring him the answers to his life's biggest questions. It’s a beautifully crafted tale of hope, destiny, and the extraordinary events that can change our lives forever.

29
Tyke and the Elephant Angel
673
64
(By K.A. Monroe) Tyke, a young elephant, encounters a mysterious elephant angel who shows him the importance of kindness and helping others. This enchanting story highlights the themes of compassion, selflessness, and how helping others can make the world a better place.

30
The Smellyphant (Children’s Picture Book)
633
75
(By Gavin Buckley) The Smellyphant is a humorous story about an elephant who is too shy to wash up and smells a little too much. Through the story, children learn the importance of personal hygiene, self-care, and the humorous moments that make life enjoyable.

31
Elephant Elephant: A Book of Opposites
593
57
(By Francesco Pittau) In this creative book, two elephants explore the concept of opposites, using vivid illustrations and simple text. The book is an engaging way to teach young readers about contrasting ideas, from big and small to fast and slow, in a fun and memorable way.

32
Ella
509
36
(By Bill Peet) Ella is a fun-loving, energetic young elephant who embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning important lessons about life, friendship, and understanding her own strengths. This delightful tale encourages children to explore their abilities while embracing their differences.

33
There Is a Bird on Your Head! (Elephant & Piggie, #4)
500
53
(By Mo Willems) Gerald the elephant has a bird on his head, and hilarity ensues as he tries to get rid of it. This humorous tale explores the importance of handling awkward situations with patience, and it showcases the lovable friendship between Gerald and Piggie.

34
Daddy, Could I Have an Elephant?
465
42
(By Jake Wolf) A young child asks his father for an elephant, and while the father initially hesitates, the child’s persistent imagination leads to a heartwarming and playful exchange. The book explores the relationship between parent and child and highlights the joy of imaginative thinking.

35
Meet Babar and His Family
482
71
(By Laurent de Brunhoff) The beloved Babar introduces readers to his world and family in this classic story. Through its engaging narrative, children are taught about responsibility, leadership, and the importance of family bonds, all while enjoying the rich, whimsical illustrations of the Babar series.

36
Barley the Elephant
436
43
(By Paul Bachmeier) Barley is a young elephant with big dreams, and he sets off on an adventure to see the world. This delightful story is about friendship, self-discovery, and how stepping outside of your comfort zone can lead to personal growth and exciting experiences.

37
But No Elephants
395
55
(By Jerry Smath) This amusing story follows a little old lady who loves animals but refuses to adopt an elephant. Through humor and repetition, children learn about the importance of unexpected friendships, as the stubborn elephant ultimately teaches the lady an important lesson about love and kindness.

38
Chained
289
22
(By Lynne Kelly) Chained tells the emotional story of a young elephant named Kuni, who is forced into captivity. The book explores themes of freedom, friendship, and survival, while also highlighting the strong bond between humans and animals and the importance of animal rights.

39
Pigs Make Me Sneeze! (Elephant & Piggie, #10)
254
21
(By Mo Willems) Gerald the elephant is allergic to pigs, and every time Piggie gets close, Gerald sneezes. This funny and lighthearted story explores the themes of friendship, the inevitability of silly mishaps, and the acceptance of each other's quirks.

40
The Saggy Baggy Elephant
254
26
(By Kathryn Jackson) This delightful tale follows a young elephant who is self-conscious about his saggy skin. Through his journey, the book teaches kids about body image, accepting imperfections, and the importance of embracing who you are, no matter how you look.

41
A Sick Day for Amos McGee
243
24
(By Philip C. Stead) A sweet tale of kindness and friendship, where a zookeeper’s animal friends take care of him when he falls ill.

42
Little Elephants
136
16
(By Graeme Base) A beautifully illustrated story, "Little Elephants" takes readers on a journey with a young elephant as he explores the wonders of the jungle. The book is a gentle reminder of the beauty of nature, the importance of curiosity, and the joy of discovery.

43
Tweak Tweak
92
13
(By Eve Bunting) A delightful story where a young elephant’s playful antics teach readers about self-expression, fun, and enjoying life’s little moments. The book celebrates the joy of movement, playfulness, and being true to oneself.