Book info

• Title The Elephant Whisperer
• Author Lawrence Anthony
• Year 2009
• Genre Non-fiction

When South African conservationist Lawrence Anthony was asked to accept a herd of 'rogue' elephants on his Thula Thula game reserve in Zululand, his common sense told him to refuse. But he was the herd's last chance of survival – dangerous and unpredictable, they would be killed if Anthony wouldn't take them in. As Anthony risked his life to create a bond with the troubled elephants and persuade them to stay on his reserve, he came to realize what a special family they were, from the wise matriarch Nana, who guided the herd, to her warrior sister Frankie, always ready to see off any threat, and their children who fought so hard to survive.

Thoughts

The title of this book made me think it might be a bit wishy-washy, but the great thing about it is the author addresses that straight away. There are some moments of connection between man and elephant that aren’t explainable but they are treated in a matter-of-fact fashion that I appreciated.

Thus, the story of a herd of mistreated being rescued and brought back to life by Lawrence Anthony takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions, with brief asides into the life and running of a giant African reserve packed with animals of all kinds. From the hectic storms that burst the river banks, to dealing with poachers, through crocodile attacks and negotiating with nearby tribes for the future of the land, it’s a packed story that grabs you right by the heart and draws you in.

It’s not a place I would particularly want to visit, and it’s not a life I can ever imagine living, but it’s a great book that gets me as close as I need to appreciate the efforts contained within.

Rating: 4 / 5