Saving H'Non: Chang and the Elephant

Book excerpt: From the creators behind the Eisner-nominated Saving Sorya: Chang and the Sun Bear comes another gorgeously-illustrated middle grade graphic novel adventure based on a true story, in which a young conservationist overcomes the odds to save and return an elephant to its natural habitat. While volunteering at a wildlife rescue center near Yok Don National Park in Vietnam, Chang—a young, spirited animal lover—helps rescue an injured and abused Asian elephant named H'Non. For decades, H'Non was forced to haul heavy timber logs and concrete poles at construction sites, and then to carry riders at tourist attractions all day long with no break. While nursing H'Non back to health, Chang is tasked with finding a kind mahout—an elephant trainer—who will teach H'Non how to fend for herself in the wild. Though Chang initially has her doubts about Wat, the young mahout she finds, H'Non takes to him instantly. As her friendships with both H'Non and Wat grow, Chang learns what it takes to give people a chance. . . . And that we’re never too young or too old to make a difference in the world around us. This heartfelt story—filled with breathtaking art and STEM facts galore—is for any young reader, animal lover, and intrepid explorer who’s ready for adventure! **FOUR starred reviews!** *“Stirs the mind and heart the way an elephant quakes the earth.”—Kirkus Reviews