Book Review: Water for Elephants

I had a love/hate relationship with this book, Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen. This story was so interesting to hear about the life of a circus on the road but I didn't like reading about any mistreatment to the animals. We all know I am a huge animal lover! But, I had to remind myself that this story was set in the post-Depression era when there was no Peta or advanced medical technology.

The story is told by Jacob Jankowski who is now in his 90's from is perspective from his nursing home and when he was on the circus tour. As Cornell Student studying to be a veterinarian, tragedy strikes his family and he leaves college. While roaming through town one day, a train comes through and Jacob jumps on, not knowing what the train holds.

Turns out that the train is carrying an entire circus to the next town. He quickly learns the ins & outs of being apart of such a peculiar lifestyle but not without some serious lessons in life. The relationships within the book made the story a very easy read, as well.

It was really fun reading this book and learning about the past. I'm so excited that this is coming out as a movie in April. Check out the movie website, here.


Water For Elephants Teaser

Sara Gruen also has some other books that look interesting. Anyone ever read any of these?