I've loved elephants for as long as I can remember. I have always been capitivated by their size, their gentleness, and the powerful way they love and protect their families. That love has only grown stronger over the years as I continue to learn more about these incredible animals. 

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During a visit to the Indianapolis Zoo, we had the unforgettable opportunity to spend time with an amazing African elephant named Tombi. 

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We learned about her training, her natural behaviors, and the important work the zoo does to support elephant welfare and conservation. Our experience was enhanced greatly by the incredible caretakers who patiently answered all of our lingering questions. They were knowledgable, patient, and kind.

 

Everything we experienced was closely supervised. The training session we observed and participated in was part of Tombi's normal daily routine, which ensures her safety. All of our close-up encounters were behind the wires, which protected us and Tombi. We would never participate in any event that wasn't approved by the American Zoological Society, and we would encourage everyone to do the same.

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Getting to spend time up close with this incredible 50-year-old African elephant was something we'll never forget. Having the opportunity to meet Tombi, watch a training session, bathe her, and touch her was probably one of the most life-changing experiences in my life. There was just something about her: her personality, her gentleness, and all of those beautiful little details you simply don't notice until you're standing right beside her.

 

We love our original logo, but it's officially time to introduce the new face of The Wandering Book Nook, inspired by Tombi.

 

We worked with an incredibly talented local graphic artist, Mathew Gaugler, who was wonderfully patient as we obsessed over every tiny detail. We could not be happier with what he created for us.

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The tusks.

Those long eyelashes.

The texture and folds of her skin.

The long hair at the end of her tail.

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Each detail was intentionaly included to reflect the feaures we loved so much about Tombi. We learned that all African elephants have tusks and two sets of eyelashes. Their skin is so sensitive that they can feel a fly land on them. And the long hair on her tail? Would you believe that Tombi has the longest tail hair in the Indianapolis Zoo because she is an Auntie and not a momma? Baby elephants are notorious for holding on to their momma's tails and pulling out the hair. Because Tombi is an Auntie elephant, her tail hair is lush and long!

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We are absolutely in love with her.

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We've kept some details the same in our new logo, to pay homage to our original. The satchel now has our initials and the dahlias are more realistic, but the books remain the same. Most importantly, the whimisical feeling that has always been a part of The Wandering Book Nook remains unchanged.

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This isn't just a new logo to us. It feels like our little bookstore is growing into itself, and now, a memory that means so much to us gets to wander along for the journey.

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Every time you see our new logo, you'll see more than a symbol. You'll see the inspiration behind this business and a reminder of why we're here.