Anthony, Lawrence The Elephant Whisperer, 248 pages. Henry
Holt, 2017. $19. NON-FICTION. Language: G (0 swears, 0”f”); Mature Content: G; Violence:
G.
When Lawrence Anthony accepts a herd of troubled elephants
to his game reserve in South Africa, he is thrilled with his new acquisition,
yet poorly equipped to deal with the debilitating effects of the past on these
magnificent creatures. Lawrence slowly
learns to speak (elephant), to become their trusted friend and one of the
worlds great conservationists. He claims “they whispered to me and taught me
how to listen.” This incredible journey of real love and loss awakens a
recognition of true trust and friendship. Making a conscious decision to end
the life of a friend brings about inconsolable grief. Lawrence welcomes
newcomers and bids farewell to others in the natural order of all things
Africa.
We learn so much about the everyday reality of elephants,
poaching and conservation efforts in a narrative of man’s commitment to his
friends. The book is free from obscenity and mature content. All who read the
novel, teens and above, will appreciate the honesty and beauty of a subject
accurately and poignantly portrayed and a book well done.
MS, HS - ESSENTIAL. Raelynne, Language Arts Teacher
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