A beautiful piece of children's literature... but one that adults will appreciate more than kids.

My kids (ages 7 and 10, boy and girl) were underwhelmed. They were expecting the adventure and humor of The Tale of Desperaux, or the adventure of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane. This was too quiet and thoughtful for them. They did want to hear more every night, but concluded that it was not a favorite. ( )

I've got to be honest with you: I didn't expect much from this book. I've read a couple of Kate DiCamillo's other books, and while I thought they were cute, they didn't really stick with me. This one, however, is magical.

The Magician's Elephant tells the story of Peter Augustus Duchene and his search for the truth: is his sister alive or dead? He asks a fortune teller this question, and is startled by the answer: "Follow the elephant." But there are no elephants in the town of Baltese; that is, until the magician conjures one that falls through the ceiling of the opera house.

DiCamillo writes in lyrical prose (some of these sentences are absolutely beautiful) and introduces us to colorful characters that each play a special role in helping Peter find the truth.

This book is nothing short of beautiful; the prose, the illustrations (by Yoko Tanaka), and the story are gorgeous. I was bold enough to turn to my husband when I finished reading last night (in one sitting, I might add) and say, "Our kids will read this book someday." And how do I know that? Because I'm going to read it to them. ( )

I loved this book. The language is beautiful. I was drawn in to magic and mystery of it all. ( )

Peter Duchene, orphan, is told by a fortuneteller that his sister is alive, and that an elephant will lead him to her. A magician, intending lilies, wrongly summons an elephant through the roof of the Bliffendorf Opera House, crushing Madam LaVaugn's legs. And so begins a chain of events Peter hopes will end in a reunion with his sister, Adele. ( )

While it's as beautifully written as all of DiCamillo's books are, this one felt like it would work a little better for older kids than her usual age range. ( )