I Saved You a Spot

Discovering Thoughtfulness in Little Things

Elephant can't wait for the forest picnic. She's picked the biggest leaves for plates, the tallest logs for seats, and the sunniest spot in the forest. She's even saved a special place for her friend Tortoise. But when Tortoise finally arrives, the logs are too tall to climb, the sunshine is a little too warm, and the games move much too quickly. Elephant thought she'd planned the perfect day, but has she thought about what would make her friend happy?

I Saved You a Spot explores how thoughtfulness begins with noticing the feelings and needs of others. Through Elephant's experience, young readers discover that caring isn't always about doing something big or impressive. Sometimes, it's about slowing down, listening, and making small changes that help someone else feel comfortable, valued, and included.

Through two lovable animal characters and a relatable story of friendship, the book introduces important social-emotional learning skills, including empathy, social awareness, kindness, and relationship-building. It encourages children to look beyond their own excitement, consider different perspectives, and discover how little acts of thoughtfulness can make a big difference in someone's day.