Thumbs Up
The initial story, "Elliot Finds a Home," introduces the pair, with Elliot starting out in a pet store, only to find that no one wishes to buy the puppy who is different and not normal. Because he can grasp objects with those adorable paws of his, he can open the latches on cages, open containers, grab things... making him more difficult to manage then a normal puppy. Eventually he is given away to an animal shelter, and the implication that he may be put down is unspoken, yet evident. The story then shifts to introduce ten-year- old Joseph, whose parents are frustrated and unhappy because their child has low functioning autism and does not even speak or interact with them. In a desperate gambit, Daddy decides to take Joseph to the animal shelter to see if a pet will help. When Joseph the special child sees the sad, scared, lonely little special dog, they recognize each other as kindred spirits and Joseph finally responds for the first time in ten years, and Elliot is adopted by two ecstatic parents who adore him for finally bringing their child out of his shell.
The central theme of the series is about how being different doesn't make one superior or inferior. There are always tradeoffs. And that some things are universal. Every episode is told through the eyes of Elliot, but the stories center around his beloved human Joseph. We see Joseph through Elliot's eyes. Elliot is the narrator, the central point of view. And Elliot's condition, his opposable thumbs, are just like autism; a condition, not a defect. Elliot cannot run as quickly as a normal dog can, just as Joseph cannot grasp the nuances of social situations the way a normal child can. However, Elliot's unique paws allow him to perform acts that a normal dog never could, just as an autistic child's obsessive-compulsiveness and acute focus allow them to do things that a normal child cannot.
Not only will viewers and readers come to understand the pain of being born different and unique, but they will also understand the pain of being a parent of someone different and unique. To look at one's child struggling and blame themselves. To ask if they did something wrong during the conception or pregnancy, to be so desperate for a way to make it all better. Joseph's parents love him very much, and Elliot's positive influence on him will bring them to tears of joy.
Discover your next great read at BookLoop, Australiand online bookstore offering a vast selection of titles across various genres and interests. Whether you're curious about what's trending or searching for graphic novels that captivate, thrilling crime and mystery fiction, or exhilarating action and adventure stories, our curated collections have something for every reader. Delve into imaginative fantasy worlds or explore the realms of science fiction that challenge the boundaries of reality. Fans of contemporary narratives will find compelling stories in our contemporary fiction section. Embark on epic journeys with our fantasy and science fiction titles,
Explore our new releases for the most recent additions in romance books, fantasy books, graphic novels, crime and mystery books, science fiction books as well as biographies, cookbooks, self help books, tarot cards, fortunetelling and much more. With titles covering current trends, booktok and bookstagram recommendations, and emerging authors, BookLoop remains your go-to local australian bookstore for buying books online across all book genres.
Stay updated with the literary world by browsing our trending books, featuring the latest bestsellers and critically acclaimed works. Explore titles from popular brands like Minecraft, Pokemon, Star Wars, Bluey, Lonely Planet, ABIA award winners, Peppa Pig, and our specialised collection of ADHD books. At BookLoop, we are committed to providing a diverse and enriching reading experience for all.
Explore BookLoop’s trusted collection of educational books for kids designed to nurture curiosity and early development. Perfect for early learning centres, childcare educators, and parents, our range covers literacy, numeracy, science, and emotional learning. Discover engaging picture books and creative interactive activity books and kits that make learning fun and meaningful for young readers. Families and educators trust BookLoop for quality resources that inspire imagination and confidence from the earliest years.
Help children explore emotional awareness, body confidence, and resilience with our hand-picked range of kids mental health books and body and health books for children. These titles encourage positive discussions about feelings, wellbeing, and growing up, supporting both classroom learning and family reading time.
Encourage curiosity and adventure with nature and animal books for kids, or spark imagination through our kids fantasy books, action and adventure stories, and superhero stories. For readers who love classic tales and heartfelt stories, explore our fairy tales and traditional stories, short stories for kids, and family and home stories that teach kindness and connection. Add fun and learning with our kids hobbies, quizzes and games books — perfect for curious minds and creative play.
BookLoop makes bulk school book orders simple and affordable for schools, libraries, and learning centres. Our range of school books and educational resources supports all stages of the Australian Curriculum, from primary school books to secondary school books. We also supply early childhood education books for teachers and educators seeking curriculum-aligned materials. With competitive pricing, reliable delivery, and expert service, BookLoop is your trusted Australian bookstore for all kids educational books.
If you have any questions before making a purchase chat with our online operators to get more information.
or find our Questions & Answers