Sloan's The Elephant In The Room is praised for its heartfelt storytelling and relatable characters, especially its young protagonist navigating complex emotions. Readers commend its sensitive handling of themes like loss and friendship. However, some critique its predictable plot and occasional pacing issues, suggesting it may appeal more to younger audiences. Overall, it's a touching tale with meaningful lessons.

Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan will relish The Elephant In The Room. Ideal for middle-grade readers who appreciate heartfelt stories about friendship, animal bonds, and personal growth, this novel resonates with those who enjoy emotionally rich narratives.

In The Elephant in the Room, Holly Goldberg Sloan follows Sila Tekin as she navigates life after her mother returns to Turkey due to an immigration issue. Sila forms unexpected bonds with a lottery winner, an autistic classmate, and a retired circus elephant, exploring themes of family, community, empathy, understanding, and advocacy against injustice.

Heartwarming / Emotional / Inspirational / Hopeful / Contemplative

**Sila Tekin**  
A sixth-grade Turkish-American student who experiences a significant emotional shift after her mother's deportation, grappling with feelings of loss and isolation while navigating new friendships and responsibilities.

**Alp Tekin**  
Sila's father, who struggles with the challenges of raising his daughter alone after his wife's deportation, showing dedication to his family despite their circumstances.

**Oya Tekin**  
Sila’s mother, whose deportation to Turkey influences the family's dynamics, and whose love and support persist through her actions, even from afar.

**Giovanni (Gio) Gardino**  
A former carpenter nearing 70 who finds renewed purpose in supporting Sila and establishing a sanctuary for an elephant named Veda on his farm.

**Lillian Gardino**  
Gio’s late wife, a dedicated second-grade teacher whose memory and wishes continue to influence Gio's choices and inspire kindness in those who knew her.

**Mateo Lopez**  
Sila's classmate and neighbor who excels in interactions with animals and eventually finds a meaningful friendship with Sila, fostering mutual understanding.

**Rosa Lopez**  
Mateo's mother and a labor attorney who is protective of her son and supports the Tekin family, reflecting themes of family and community support.

**Chester Briot**  
The ringleader of the Briot Family Circus, characterized as a cunning con man with little regard for animal welfare, who sells an elephant named Veda to Gio.

**Veda**  
A 22-year-old Asian elephant previously with the Briot Family Circus, who finds a new life and companionship on Gio's farm.

**Mr. Pickles**  
A brown bear from the Briot Family Circus who endures inhumane treatment and eventually relocates to a more compassionate environment.

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