New children’s book from Flyaway Books explores memory loss

‘Arthur and the Forgetful Elephant’ encourages compassion, patience

by Flyaway Books | Special to Presbyterian News Service

LOUISVILLE — Tuesday marks the release of “Arthur and the Forgetful Elephant” by Maria Girón.

Ideal for children ages 3-7, “Arthur and the Forgetful Elephant” explores memory loss from the perspective of both those who forget and those around them. Inside the book a young boy named Arthur meets an elephant who suffers from memory loss. After a playful day together, the elephant remembers enough to help him reunite with his family. The book encourages readers to have compassion for and patience with those suffering from memory loss and it features charming illustrations that progressively become more colorful throughout the story.

Kirkus Reviews gave the book a starred review, saying, “a tale of memory and kindness infused with warmth and a splash of color … Powerful, playful, emotional, and so worth a place on the bookshelf.”

The book is available in a jacketed hardback format and the retail price is $18. A free discussion guide developed in cooperation with the Alzheimer’s Association and a complimentary coloring sheet featuring Arthur and his friend are available for download here.

“Arthur and the Forgetful Elephant” is now available for purchase where books are sold.

About Flyaway Books

Flyaway Books is a picture book program dedicated to themes of diversity, inclusivity, compassion, and kindness. For more information, visit www.flyawaybooks.com.

About Maria Girón

Maria Girón spent her childhood immersed in art. Since studying fine arts and illustration in Seville and Barcelona, she has illustrated 10 children’s books. In 2010, the Bologna Children’s Book Fair selected her work for a collective exhibition. For more information, visit www.mariagiron.com.