Book Review - Water For Elephants

This book was first passed around to most of Amanda's family. Then I picked it up after Amanda finished with it. I tell you that only because I never would have heard of it otherwise.

Anyway, this book had a fascinating and unusual plot and setting. It revolves around a young man who winds up in a traveling circus after having his life basically fall apart. I found it very easy to become engrossed in his experiences, and it was especially enjoyable because it felt like being behind the scenes of the big top and the escapades that surround it.

The biggest detractor of the story though (without giving away too many details) is the immorality that is exhibited by numerous characters, including the main one. The author attempts to provide excuses, but there really isn't enough, in my mind, to justify it.

I thought it was especially interesting that the author is a woman, given that she seemed to write so vividly and accurately from a man's perspective. Also, as a bonus many of the scenes in the book are apparently based on real, if not embellished, stories that the author acquired during her research for this book.