The story, Water for Elephants (by Sara Gruen) is told as a series of memories by Jacob Jankowski, a ninety-three year-old man who lives in a nursing home.
He tells his tale as a 23 year old, almost college grad, whose life is turned upside down by the tragic death of his parents.
With his life all planned the tragic death of his parents sent Jacob on downward sprial that lands him in the employ of , The Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth,a traveling circus.
Based on somewhat true events, this historical fiction, tells of the day to day life for those who lived and worked on a traveling train circus in the 1930s. There are handful of unforgettable characters that make this novel really work.
I mean really, how can you have a traveling circus without the world's fattest woman, a tyrannical ring master, a beautiful showgirl and a temperamental yet lovable elephants?
One thing I really loved about this book was that at the beginning of each chapter (save a few) there were pictures from the real traveling circuses of the 1930's. Makes me want to go out and do some research on them. Pretty interesting subject, I think.
There is a movie coming out at some point, hopefully the screenwriters won't totally screw it up. You can go here to find the full list of cast and crew, Which includes Robert Pattinson, Resse Witherspoon and Christoper Waltz.
I really enjoyed this book and will probably read it again one day. It was a fairly quick and easy read. However, if you are the modest type, I should warn you..... there are some fairly sexual themes throughout the story.
You've been warned!!!
All in All, I thought it was fantastic!
5 stars!!
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