The Elephant and the Gnat

About the Book

The Elephant and the Gnat is a book upon which to ponder. While the pictures and verbiage are simple in nature, the depth of discussion can be endless. The characters will lead one on a search for wisdom and meaning where there are no right or wrong answers. The reader can relate different emotions and perspectives to each and every page. The readers must find their own truths and realities on each page. This book was inspired by Robert David Dauzat; written by his daughter, author Melisa Mel; and illustrated by his grandson, artist Kendall Austin Pardo. Enjoy your search. Enjoy your findings.

About the Author

Melisa Mel, also known as the “Cargo Pants Girl”, is the CEO, Founder, and President of her company “From Victim to Survivor, LLC”. She works extensively with First Responders, Perpetrators, and Victims of sexual assault and other violent crimes. Her preference is to be addressed simply as “Mel”. Mel taught English, Spanish, Severe Disabilities, and Prison populations for 30+ years. She then transitioned her focus to LGBT issues, policing issues, and first responder issues. She has published ten books and is currently working on her eleventh. She holds a BA in English, an MA in English as a Second Language, an MA in Special Education/Education, and a PhD ABD in Psychology. Passion for assisting those without a voice pushes Mel forward on her many goals and projects. One thing she knows well is that quiet pondering and finding one’s own voice is key to understanding and finding wisdom. This book, The Elephant and The Gnat, is a tool to be used for such pondering. Whether one ponders quietly and privately or with someone else, understanding and wisdom can be gained. That is understanding of one’s self, one’s environment, one’s belief system, one’s inner flow, and one’s purpose in life. Over the years, Mel has been nominated for various national awards for her work with victims, her philanthropy, her teaching, and her writing. She was recently awarded the 2017 AZ Woman of the Year Beth McDonald Award and the Triumph Over Tragedy Award from Governor Doug Ducey.