Elmer and the Gift

The 30th Elmer story explores the themes of dementia and spending time with elderly relatives.

The 30th Elmer storybook from master picture book maker and BookTrust Liftetime Achievement Award winner David McKee.

Aunt Zelda has a gift to give to Elmer from his Grandpa Eldo, but she can’t remember what it is or where it is. Zelda’s memory sometimes escapes her, and her hearing isn’t what it used to be, they set off together to find Grandpa Eldo and solve the mystery of the forgotten gift.

In his 30th storybook, Elmer’s love, patience and respect for his Aunt Zelda and Grandpa Eldo makes for a heart-warming depiction of family life with elderly relatives.

About the Author

David McKee (1935 - 2022) was the creator of well-known characters including King Rollo, Mr Benn and Elmer the Patchwork Elephant, which is now published in more than 60 languages and has its own successful global merchandise programme. David was born in Devon and went to Plymouth Art College, where he had a traditional training. On leaving college he drew regularly for Punch, Reader's Digest, and The Times Educational Supplement. His drawings were influenced especially by Saul Steinberg and Andre Francois. In 2020 David won the British Book Awards Illustrator of the Year Award and BookTrust's Lifetime Achievement Award.