I just finished reading a wonderful book by Sara Gruen. Amazingly, “Water for Elephants” made it into my hands before I’d heard too much about the content. I’m not going to ruin it for you, but do advise you to read it all the way to the end or don’t read it at all. Thank you, thank you friends who had already read this gem and didn’t spill the beans before I’d had a chance to find for myself its’ delightful and surprising conclusion.
Before you run out to buy the book, let me be clear that it’s not necessarily an easy read. If you are caring for aging parents, you’ll probably shed a few tears. I certainly did, and at times I felt like someone threw a punch and knocked the air out of me. But the story is real…and loving…and compassionate. If you are caring for aging parents it should be required reading. I think I’ll read it again just in case I missed something the first time around.
And there are also plenty of issues that confront the places we hide our fears and prejudice. Sex, cruelty (human & animal), racism, social norms. Yeah, there’s some blatant truth to deal with. And then there are also characters who restore your faith by their unexpected kindness, deep values, and willingness to risk it all to live with integrity. Okay, if I haven’t scared you off….
The story is also a great summer read. Full of the thrills of circus life and eccentric characters. And oh yes, there are animals, and cotton candy, travel by train, and young love. This is a book that makes me glad to have a rocking chair, good light, and enough time to savor a great story.
