Old Friends

Elephants Walk Together by Cheryl Lawton Malone ill by Bistra Masseva

Elephants Walk Together tells the story of Asian elephants Precious and Baba, young calves who grew up as playmates in the forest. While still very young, they were captured by hunters and impressed into becoming circus performers. Both remained with the same touring group, entertaining audiences across the country. They learned to balance on small balls, ride bicycles, and parade single file. They endured all of this under the blinding light and constant commotion of the circus tent. Malone descriptions of the less-than-humane treatment of these pachyderms are not overly graphic.

Eventually it is decided that Precious is not suited to circus life. She is sent to a zoo and finally to an animal sanctuary where she can be properly cared for. In the intervening years. Baba remains with the circus. After decades of performing, she arrives at the animal sanctuary. The two friends remember each other and are overjoyed to renew their friendship. Neither the passage time nor change of surroundings can dimmish this friendship.This fictionalized account depicts the remarkable ability of these intelligent animals to form lasting caring friendships.

Bistra Masseva renders the illustrations in a soft color pallette. The stately elephants are unquestionably the dominant feature on each page. While the style is realistic, it also conveys the warm and depth of emotional attachment between these two friends. It is clear that they are more than massively impressive mammals. The elephants display genuine affection for one another.
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Back matter includes basic information on Asian and African elephants, why both wild and captive elephants are in danger, and suggests actions that readers can take to help protect individual elephants and elephant herds.

Gypsy and Wanda

Elephants Walk Together is inspired by the life-long friendship of Asian elephants Gypsy and Wanda. Records document the relationship of these two circus performers. Historical videos show the animals with chains on their legs, bobbing and swaying on command. It’s difficult to view these noble animals subjected to this treatment. Watching the videos of two reunited friends freely roaming and communicating with each other is heartwarming.

Online Resources

Learn more about protecting elephants. This author-suggested list of online resources is a good place to start.
International Elephant Foundation
Los Angeles Zoo: Elephants of Asia
Performing Animal Welfare Society
US Fish and Wildlife Service: Wildlife Without Borders
World Elephant Day