KREST Publishers, based in Durban, is thrilled to announce that the cover of There’s An Elephant in My Swimming
Pool by Gretchen Ryan has been nominated in the Best Book Cover category at the 2024 national Book Behind Awards.  The story follows the riveting adventure of eleven-year-old Toby, who is determined to catch rhino and elephant poachers while on holiday at his Grampa’s game farm near Kruger National Park. He must outwit not only the dangerous wild animals but also his wary sister Tara and his parents’ strict rules.

The concept for this cover design was certainly unique. KREST Publishers called all young artists to draw a cover for There’s an Elephant in My Swimming Pool. Young budding designers from all over South Africa sent in their one-of-a-kind artworks. The winner of the Young Designers Competition was a ten-year-old Pitlochry Primary School student, Uraishna. Her hyper-realistic drawing, use of shading and vivid colours made for a perfect cover design.
KREST then professionally recreated Uraishna’s work. The design was a great reflection of the story, and the young artist was able to expertly capture the essence of the book. More on the artist and her process of creating the cover can be found on our Krest House blog.

As we await the final results of the award, we can already appreciate how this cover has brought a fresh, vibrant perspective to Gretchen Ryan’s enthralling story. Whether you’re an avid reader or a design enthusiast, There’s An Elephant in My Swimming Pool is a book that promises delight and excitement. Don’t miss the chance to experience Toby’s thrilling adventure and admire a cover that embodies both artistic brilliance and the spirit of youthful imagination.

KREST Publishers is the book publishing imprint of The KREST House, based in Durban, South Africa.