Although this cookbook is not strictly whole-food, plant-based, as small amounts of added oil are used, it is an excellent resource for anyone curious about vegan living or beginning their plant-based journey. Dominick Thompson opens the book by sharing his personal story of becoming vegan. Unlike many narratives that begin with a health crisis, Thompson’s turning point occurred while he was incarcerated. This unconventional and honest origin story sets the tone for a book that is as much about values and personal growth as it is about food.

Thompson clearly articulates his “why” for veganism with the simple yet powerful motto: “If It Requires Harm, Then Nahh.” This guiding principle carries throughout the book and is reinforced by a thoughtful section on social justice, an element often missing from nutrition and recipe-focused writings. He explains that he named the book after “Earth’s largest herbivore, the mighty African elephant-an intelligent, gentle, curious, strong, and peaceful creature that fuels its massive body with plants.” This symbolism underscores the book’s message that strength and vitality can coexist with compassion.

The book is organized into four main sections:

• The Eat What Elephants Eat Journey
• How to Eat What Elephants Eat
• The EWEE Kitchen
• Recipes
  

Interwoven throughout are practical and accessible educational resources, including an overview of macronutrients, guidance on plant-based protein sources, healthy fats, and key micronutrients. Readers will also find helpful tools such as a plant-based milk guide, whole grain and bean batch-cooking tips, a build-a-bowl guide, a leafy greens overview, and a simple smoothie formula. These additions make the book feel both instructional and supportive, particularly for those new to vegan eating.

The recipes themselves are clearly written, well organized, and beautifully photographed. Of the dishes I tried, the chickpea Caesar dressing stood out as a favourite, always a win when a recipe encourages more bean consumption! Many of the offerings are especially approachable for newcomers, with familiar comfort foods like Mac ’n “Cheese” and Orange “Chicken” reimagined in a vegan-friendly way.

One minor drawback is that some recipes require components from other recipes within the book, which means a bit of advance planning and extra page-flipping. That said, this is fairly common in comprehensive cookbooks and is entirely manageable with a little organization.

Overall, Eat What Elephants Eat is a thoughtful, encouraging, and practical cookbook. It serves as a strong resource for anyone at the beginning of their vegan journey, offering not just recipes, but context, compassion, and a broader understanding of how food choices connect to personal and social well-being.