Most animals in children's books are mildly crazy. A duck dressing up as a sailor, a bear whose sole purpose in life is to be cuddled and big-eared elephants capable of flying.

There is nothing wrong with fantasy or fun. However, we believe there is room for a book that shares with children how elephants really are and how they live. This book presents Dublin Zoo's elephants: complex, sensitive, intelligent, sociable animals that deserve our understanding, respect and above all our protection.

We hope you enjoy it!

Leo Oosterweghel, Director, Dublin Zoo