Water for Elephants: A Novel

I don’t know why this memory sticks so fondly in my brain but I distinctly remember this book sitting on my mom’s nightstand why I was a kid. I always remember thinking I wanted to read it but it was an “adult” book, well the time has finally come where I could read it and I am happy I did. I like historically based books because there is not only realism but there’s a nostalgic feeling to them as well. I recently listened to a podcast that referenced circuses from this time period so I was aware of most of the facts throughout the book which was interesting. Plus, this one has a little bit of everything. The hardships and cruelties of the time period are displayed expertly and portrayed so much feeling it was hard not to get attached. There is a love component between humans but also a love for animals which was touching as well. Overall, a nice read - plus I believe it is a movie so I’ll have to check that out to see how it compares.

The theme of aging saved this book for me. Alone, the graphic account of circus life would have left too little to the imagination. Jacob J. is, as the author intended, flawed - and lovably so in my estimation. I found myself rooting for him, as one does for the underdog.

Great read.

I can't believe how much I loved this book. Historical fiction with an awesome story AND I was fascinated by the time period it took place in (the Great Depression) and the circus! It's an absolute must-read.

DISCLAIMER: I tend to not like books that most others like/love. I have detested the seven Oprah Book Club books that I picked up. I'd be hard pressed to pick up one of 'her' books again.

I had about 60 pages left of the book and put it down...just wasn't happening for me.

I've read The Final Confessions of Mabel Stark and that book trumps Water for Elephants by a long shot. If you liked W for E you have to read or listen to the CD of Mabel Stark-you might reallly reallllllly enjoy it.

Didn't like W for E due to the formulaic writing style. Here's the good guy, the damsel in distress, the 'problem', the bad bad bad guy, blah blah blah-so commercial like. I mainly put the book down because I didn't believe for one minute that Jacob was really in love with the Damsel.