Goliath

Goliath II is an unusually small elephant who stands out in the herd. His father, the largest member of the group, pays him little attention, while his mother offers warmth and encouragement. This dynamic sets the stage for the central tension: Goliath must prove his worth despite his size.

A predatory tiger named Raja stalks the jungle, posing a constant danger to the family. Eloise’s near-miss with Goliath reinforces the risks around him. The mother elephant remains vigilant, shielding Goliath as the herd moves, while the crocodile in the water adds another looming threat.

While the herd moves, Goliath is drawn away by two slow snails and becomes separated from the line. His mother and Raja set off to find him, the stress of the search mounting as distance grows. They locate him in a cramped snail hole, and a brief tug-of-war with Raja ends with Goliath being rescued.

Though rescued, he is rebuked for disobeying her warnings. She places him in a bird's nest to cool his heels, emphasizing the consequences of missteps. The punishment leaves Goliath frustrated and doubtful about whether he can ever truly be independent.

That night, spurred by a fierce wish to prove himself, Goliath escapes from the herd and vows not to return. Surrounded by unfamiliar jungle sounds, he grows increasingly frightened. He is eventually awakened by Raja, who seizes the moment to confront him.

Raja challenges Goliath, exploiting his moment of isolation. Goliath cries out for his mother, and she comes to his aid. She drives Raja toward a crocodile's mouth, ending the direct threat and sending him away.

With the herd on the move again the next day, a small mouse triggers a new panic. The mouse taunts Goliath, telling him elephants should fear mice. Forced to face his doubt, Goliath finds himself holding the mouse over a treacherous ledge above the same hungry crocodile.

The mouse pleads for mercy, and Goliath chooses to spare him. This mercy becomes a turning point, signaling that courage is more than size. For the first time, his father's fear begins to give way to respect.

With mercy proven, Goliath rises in the herd's eyes as a capable presence. His actions shift the balance of power within the group, and he is seen as the top elephant. The event marks his transition from neglected youngster to respected leader.

The story closes on the theme that true courage comes from heart and choices, not merely from size. Goliath discovers his place within the herd and the meaning of growing up.