Liner notes read: "If, as many nonfiction bestsellers have revealed, animals possess emotions & awareness, they must have stories. In this novel imagined entirely from the perspective of African elephants, the author creates a world whole and separate that yet illuminates our own."

That got me to buy the book. Then I read it described as a "sorrowful novel." I can't take "sorrowful" when it comes to animals. My heart breaks too easily--even if it's only a work of fiction I'm reading. I am sure this is an exceptional work, however, and hope that some other BCer requests it.

I just got back from vacation and this book was waiting for me. Thanks watchcat. I'll write again after reading the book.

This was a much harder book to read than I expected. Even after the 100 pages, I was not really 'hooked' and was getting a bit confused by the locations and the elephants' names. Then, slowly I started to be touched, especially after the slaughter. I thought that parts of the book were difficult and dry - a bit like the desert the elephants were going through - and at times, I was puzzled by the spirituality described alongside a very tough and unforgiving wilderness. I think if I had like the personality of one of the elephants, maybe a connection would have taken place and made it easier... unfortunately, I did not connect.

I reserved this book for Folia who expressed interest in it a long time ago! A very long time ago! ;-)

October 16, 2008 - Gave the book to Folia who stopped in Montreal and made some time for us to meet over coffee while waiting for her train!

We got safely back to New Brunswick - me and the book. Thanks again!