The Saggy Baggy Elephant
By Kathryn Jackson
The Story
A young elephant named Sooki feels ashamed of his saggy skin, big ears, and long nose after a parrot teases him — until he meets other elephants who look just like him.
Why It's Special
For the child who's ever felt embarrassed about being different, Sooki's journey from self-doubt to a joyful one-two-three-kick lands right in the heart.
- Big idea: The things that make you stand out are the very things that connect you to where you belong.
- Vibes: Gentle, warm, and reassuring, with a jungle setting rendered in soft, storybook-classic art.
Perfect For Kids Who
- are working on feeling okay about looking different
- enjoy gentle animal stories with a happy ending
- like to act out Sooki's one-two-three-kick
- respond well to classic, soothing read-aloud pacing
Ask Your Little Reader
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Sooki felt when the parrot made fun of his big ears and long nose?
- Story & problem-solving: What changed for Sooki when he met other elephants who looked just like him?
- Real-life connection: Has anyone ever teased you about something that makes you special?
- Imagination: If you could do Sooki's one-two-three-kick, how would you celebrate it?
- Self-image: What do you like about the way you look, just like Sooki learned to love his saggy skin?
