TL;DR
A captivating tale set during the Great Depression, 'Water for Elephants' by Sara Gruen tells the story of Jacob Jankowski, who finds love and purpose within a struggling circus.
What is Water for Elephants about
'Water for Elephants' by Sara Gruen is a historical novel set in the 1930s during the Great Depression. It follows Jacob Jankowski, a young veterinary student who finds himself orphaned and penniless. He stumbles upon a traveling circus, the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth, and starts caring for the circus animals. Jacob falls in love with Marlena, the beautiful equestrian star, who is married to the brutal animal trainer August. The novel explores themes of love, survival, and the bonds formed among the circus crew, especially with Rosie, an 'untrainable' elephant who becomes a symbol of hope.
Water for Elephants 6 Key Takeaways
Jacob's Entry into the Circus
After his parents' death, Jacob is left with no home or money. He jumps a train that belongs to the Benzini Brothers circus and gets a job as a vet for the animals.
Meeting Marlena and August
Jacob meets Marlena, the equestrian star, and her husband August, who is charming but violently unstable. Jacob begins to fall for Marlena despite the dangerous situation.
Rosie's Introduction
Rosie, an elephant believed to be untrainable, arrives at the circus. Jacob and Marlena form a bond with Rosie, who becomes central to the circus's survival.
Jacob and Marlena's Relationship
As Jacob and Marlena grow closer, August's jealousy and cruelty escalate, creating a tense and dangerous atmosphere within the circus.
The Circus Collapse
The climax involves a chaotic collapse of the circus, culminating in a deadly stampede that changes the lives of Jacob, Marlena, and Rosie forever.
Jacob's Old Age
The novel alternates between the past and Jacob's present life as an elderly man in a nursing home, reflecting on his circus days and the love he found.
Top Water for Elephants Quotes
- 'Life is the most spectacular show on earth.'
- 'When two people are meant to be together, they will be together. It's fate.'
Who should read Water for Elephants?
Readers who enjoy historical fiction, romantic tales, and stories about redemption and resilience will find 'Water for Elephants' particularly compelling. It is also suited for those intrigued by the behind-the-scenes life of a Depression-era circus.
Water for Elephants Best Reviews
- 'This colorful headlong tale of a Depression-era circus simply can't be beat.' —Stephen King
- 'A tender love story, a harrowing tale of survival, and a glimpse into the fascinating world of Depression-era circuses.' —Los Angeles Times
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Water for Elephants FAQs
What is 'Water for Elephants' about?
'Water for Elephants' by Sara Gruen is a historical novel set in the 1930s that follows Jacob Jankowski, a young man who joins a traveling circus and forms deep bonds with the circus members and an elephant named Rosie.
Is 'Water for Elephants' book inappropriate?
The book contains graphic scenes and excessive vulgarity. It has mature themes that may not be suitable for younger readers.
Is 'Water for Elephants' based on a true story?
No, the novel is not a true story. It is a work of historical fiction, although inspired by the biblical story of Jacob and elements of real circus history.