Sofie’s Great Wildlife Adventure, the first children’s book published by Elephant Family Foundation India (EFFI), a registered charitable organisation devoted to preserving the nation’s most endangered wildlife, is a gorgeously illustrated story that honours India’s wild past and the principles of compassion, harmony, and preservation.

This special publication, which was produced as part of the foundation’s educational and awareness-raising efforts, was authored by Farah Siddiqui Khan (who also serves as the chairperson of EFFI) and illustrated by Sucharita Sengupta Suri. It is not for sale. The book inspires young readers to value and preserve nature via creative tales and engrossing illustrations.

The narrative centres on Sofie, an inquisitive little child getting ready for her first visit to a wildlife sanctuary. She learns about animal habitats, the value of not littering, the proper way to visit the outdoors, and how each thing is essential to the environment under her mother’s guidance. The book promotes compassion for animals and a greater understanding of India’s biodiversity since it is full of light-hearted comedy, easily understood facts, and beautiful graphics.

In order to educate kids about human-animal coexistence, EFFI will be doing workshops and presentations at schools and children’s communities, where the book will be distributed.

Ratna Singh, India’s first professional female naturalist and renowned animal conservationist, writes the foreword, reminding readers that “adventure isn’t loud; it’s quiet, curious, and full of wonder.”

Inspired by her lifelong enthusiasm for animals and her belief in a more compassionate world, author Farah Siddiqui Khan is a successful art curator and the Director of Elephant Family Foundation India. “Every child who has ever been interested in the world outside their window should read this book,” she says. “We can raise a generation that genuinely cares for the wild if we can foster that sense of wonder early.” Each page is a visual feast for young brains thanks to illustrator Sucharita Sengupta Suri’s intricate, quirky illustrations that are inspired by the wonders and quirks of nature.