Elephant Touch- A Heartwarming Middle Grade Novel
Elephant Touch is a heartwarming middle-grade novel written by former teacher Susan R. Greenway. This poignant story about overcoming grief is one that you will want to keep on your bookshelf for years to come. Read on for our non-spoiler review.
Elephant Touch Synopsis:
Heartbroken over the sudden loss of her mother, twelve-year-old Quinn and her aunt volunteer at a Thai elephant sanctuary, hoping to ease her pain. While assisting in the care of abused elephants, Quinn experiences an astonishing encounter which gives her hope and forges an unexpected friendship. But can she find the courage to channel her grief into action and help save a baby elephant in need?
Our Review:
Elephant Touch is a poignant portrayal of one young girl’s journey through the grieving process. The story takes the reader on Quinn’s journey from heartbreak through her stages of sadness and mourning. Lessons about loss and accepting comfort from others are brought forth in a manner easily understandable for young readers. The plot moves the readers towards a satisfying realization that resilience is possible with a little courage, caring and time.
Ultimately, Quinn learns that her connections to others are crucial to overcoming the devastating loss of her Mother. Sometimes all it takes to move forward through grief is to let others into your heart. Quinn’s connection with an elephant named Sumana is at the heart of this realization. The Elephant senses her sadness and initiates a special friendship. Quinn was finding it difficult to let people in, but this special bond helps her navigate her grief. As Quinn learns more about the elephants and their intelligence she begins to cope with her pain and feelings of guilt. Her empathy leads her to help a baby elephant named LeeLa. Quinn’s understanding in their shared experiences help to soothe her heart and will warm the reader’s.
The Great Elephant Migration is on exhibit in The Meatpacking District of Manhattan in NYC from 9/6-/24-10/31/24. You can read about it further in an upcoming blog post. 
About the Author:
Susan R. Greenway is a former elementary school teacher and reading specialist. She is a longtime member of SCBWI (Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators) and a graduate of the University of Washington Writing for Children Program. Elephant Touch is her debut novel, inspired by an extraordinary experience she had with an elephant in Thailand. Susan is an outdoor and dog enthusiast and lives with her husband and their sweet dog, Willow, in Washington.
Want to learn more about Elephant Conservation? Check out the links below recommended by Ms. Greenway: