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Book Review: The Girl Who Stole an Elephant

A photograph of The Girl Who Stole an Elephant. A children's adventure book set in Sri Lanka..

The Girl Who Stole an Elephant is an adventure story set in Sri Lanka. We think it is important for children to read books set in various locations – so that they can be aware of just how great and diverse the world is!

In January 2020, it won the Waterstone’s Children’s Book of the Month. Blue Peter even recognised the book for its greatness.

Millie, who is a big fan of this story, offered her review.

Millie’s Review

This is the story of a girl called Chaya, a thief. She ends up on an adventure of a lifetime after stealing quite a big prize…The Queen’s jewels.

But for a good reason…to help those in need.

This action-packed book features a stolen elephant, a prison breakout, and the start of a revolution! It’s difficult to find a more absorbing book.

The reader can’t help but lose themselves in the vibrant Sri Lankan landscape that the author paints. (Nizarana Farook was born and raised in Colombo, Sri Lanka). As the story progresses, the characters personalities really develop.

I always enjoy the reluctant allies turned friends storyline, and this book delivers exactly that.

Chaya is a strong female lead. Surrounded by people who underestimate girls, Chaya manages to get away with an awful lot. She’s feisty, brave and sometimes difficult, making her a breath of fresh air compared to many other female characters.

If you’re up for an absolute page turner of an adventure book, The Girl Who Stole an Elephant is for you.

And this brilliant book is in our 8-11 3 and 4 book boxes until the end of August. Swoop in and get it quick here

Or buy it on its own here.

Hear more from Nizrana Farook here. She has followed up this book with another fantastic read (also set in Sri Lanka): The Boy Who Met A Whale.