The Elephant Whisperer

It is a given that if you love animals or have interest in conservationism, you will enjoy this book, but I honestly doubt there are many people that would not really be delighted with this true story of a man who makes a special connection with a herd of elephants in order to save their lives. Lawrence Anthony calls up vivid images of his preserve, Thula Thula, to the point that you feel that you have been there and the combination of his efforts to save the wild animals, the adventures and misadventures of his three canine companions, and the strange political climate he must maneuver through make this narrative as action packed and fast paced as any adventure novel. The real life characters, both animal and human, that populate this book are all unique and interesting and I ached to know the rest of their stories when the book ended. Anthony works hard to try to understand the underlying motivations of the humans and the animals he works with and has some surprising insights into elephants, dogs, rhinos, snakes, plants, and people scattered throughout the narrative. This would be a fascinating tale coming from anyone, but the book is so well written with imagery that effortlessly calls up the characters and the settings in your mind and made me want to want to listen without pause. In addition, Simon Vance gives a truly masterful performance. His voice is quite pleasant anyway, but he really takes \”ownership\” of this book and I felt like I was listening to the author himself tell me of his personal adventure. I don\’t give many 5 stars, but I have no reservations with this book – it\’s first rate all the way. I would recommend it to anyone over the age of 10. (There are some scenes in the book that would be a bit traumatic for young children, but older children will love the book as much as adults.) One Note to Animal Lovers: As an animal lover myself, I am always attracted to books about the animal kingdom and also always hesitant to read them because I hate to read about any mistreatment of animals. This book does have its difficult moments, but the overarching feel of this story is so very positive and has so many interesting insights about the natural world that I think you will find it is worth reading and will leave you inspired and not depressed. Discovering Lawrence Anthony within months of his death (March 2012) makes me hope that Audible will make his other books available at some point in the near future. 156 people found this helpful

Now I have loved Elephants since I was a wee lassie, so with a title like this one I would certainly gravitate toward it. There were so many things that went on in the years that this book covers you never knew what the next curve of the ride was going to be. It did not pull any punches there were sad things and wonderful things and some things that you did not know what was going to happen for sure until the very end. But mostly I was entranced to hear this man\’s account of these wonderful creatures. Even with his attempt to keep them sort of wild, but the Matriarch trusting him, the sensitivity and intelligence of these giants was evident and what I would have guessed about them. Now I know that not everyone will rush to read this book, but speaking from my heart where the 5 year old still resides that wanted to keep a big elephant in the living room because it ws the biggest room in the house. Try it and see if you do not smile in your heart. 17 people found this helpful

As a conservationist tries to settle a family of \”rogue\” elephants onto his game reserve, he learns valuable lessons about family, loyalty, and friendship. I really enjoyed this audiobook. The story really was an inspiring journey touching on many emotional levels. Smiles, tears, anger, disbelief and wonder all rolled into a story that kept me engaged throughout. I even had to find the Thula Thula reserve online because I found myself wanting to plan a visit here at some point. Simon Vance really brings this book to life. His style and voice are perfect compliments to the feelings of the story. I dont think you can go wrong picking up this offering. 35 people found this helpful

When I was a young boy my dad would read safari books to me. I assume for that reason I love most anything about animals in Africa. In my slightly biased opinion this book will not disappoint you. Once the book gets rolling which doesn\’t take long you will not want to do anything except hear more. The narration is fantastic, absolutely fantastic. I bought the printed book for a friend who likes true adventure stories. He will love it but unfortunately he won\’t get to hear the narration. The story evokes every emotion with fear being prominent. I kept trying to imagine what it would be like to face down a huge African elephant or even a spitting cobra. How would my senses change when having to be aware of every movement in the environment? Could I ever completely relax? 21 people found this helpful

I don\’t want to list all the superlatives that come to mind right now after just finishing this book. If you are interested in nature and wildlife, it is a must read. I don\’t know how you could listen to this book and not come away feeling deeply affected and changed. I don\’t know how you could listen to this book and not want to visit Thula Thula. Other reviews have already described the story. I just want to say that you need to download this book and set aside 11 hours as soon as possible, for you will be wanting to do little else than listen to it. 36 people found this helpful

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