The powerful new picture book from Greenaway Medallist and seven-time CBCA winner, Freya Blackwood

The boy lives in a city, where everything is fast and loud. But amidst the bustle and the noise, the boy has a secret ...

In the overgrown lot next to his apartment building, deep within the green, he has a friend.

But one day progress arrives, bringing with it plans for something new, and the boy must find a way to save his friend before it's too late ...

From award-winning illustrator and storyteller Freya Blackwood comes a magical and tender wordless picture book about the world we live in and our ability to change it.

PRAISE

'full of innocent, powerful childlike optimism and love'
- Books+Publishing

'To offer any more than the publishers' official blurb would destroy the magic and the wonder of this masterpiece from Freya Blackwood who has told the most evocative story entirely in her exquisite illustrations. From the very first page ... there unfolds the most enchanting story of a little lad with a special friend and a critical mission - one that shows that one child can make a difference'
- The Bottom Shelf

AWARDS

ALSC Notable Children's Books List 2025

IBBY Italy Silent Books Honour List 2023

Shortlisted - Prime Minister's Literary Awards 2022 (Children's Literature)

Shortlisted - CBCA Picture Book 2022

Shortlisted - Australian Book Design Awards 2022

The Boy and the Elephant

The Boy and the Elephant