Ellie Phant: Perfectly Imperfect

Ellie Phant: Perfectly Imperfect by Mary Anastasiou, illustrated by Daron Parton (Five Mile Press) HB ISBN978192328690

This is an empowering and heartwarming picture book for readers aged 6 to 8 years that tells the story of Ellie Phant, a confident, and joyful elephant who radiates inner strength. Despite her playful self-assurance, Ellie begins to question her unique style and overweight body when her friends suggest otherwise. However, Ellie is not alone in questioning her body size: other animals such as the thin-armed sloth, the ultra-tall flamingo, the short-legged badger and the far-too-small mouse, all have body image problems, too.

‘Now, listen up,’ she told them. ‘This silliness must cease. Quiet down those inner whispers and give your heart some peace.’

Thus, this relatable journey explores themes of self-acceptance, body positivity, and staying true to oneself.

The illustrations by New Zealand resident, Parton, are in a limited palette with a predominance of pinks, greens and blues.