In "The Book of Tomorrow" by Cecelia Ahern, the author explores the tendency of individuals and families to address problems superficially rather than confronting the underlying issues. The protagonist reflects on her experiences with her family's approach to difficulties, where solutions seem temporary and neglect the more profound realities that need to be acknowledged. This superficiality leads to a repetitive cycle of problems that remain unresolved beneath the surface.

The metaphor of the "elephant in the room" illustrates how pervasive these ignored issues are, becoming almost a familiar presence in her life. The protagonist realizes that these elephants symbolize significant challenges and truths that her family has avoided, revealing the emotional impact of such denial. This insight contributes to her journey of self-discovery and highlights the importance of addressing deep-seated problems for true growth and healing.