The Elephant’s Friend and other Tales from Ancient India

A new publication from Marcia Williams is always a delight. She has a gift of making stories, whether from history or myths from different cultures, accessible and lively, both with her words and images. Although the publisher advises The Elephant’s Friend is for children of 7+, younger readers of 5+ would also enjoy the bright illustrations and tales which are simpler than those in some of Williams’ other books. The stories in The Elephant’s Friend are moral tales, advocating the virtues of wisdom over strength or of not taking advantage of those who have befriended you; sometimes they are cautionary, pointing out the dangers of trusting a tiger however old and scrawny he might be. Williams’ graphic novel style interspersed with full-and double-page spreads, provides plenty to attract the gaze, and here she has adopted the traditional bright colours of India in another fine production.