One Sentence Summary:
A young man’s life takes an unexpected turn when he joins a traveling circus during the Great Depression.
Book Genre:
Historical fiction
Main Topic of the Book:
The harsh realities of circus life during the Great Depression, set against a backdrop of forbidden love and the struggle for survival.
Key Ideas:
- The brutality and exploitation of circus life during the Great Depression
- The strength and resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity
- The forbidden love between two individuals from different social classes
- The power of loyalty and friendship
Main Parts of the Book and a Short Summary:
Part 1: Prologue
The book opens with an elderly man named Jacob Jankowski reminiscing about his past as a circus veterinarian. He is now living in a nursing home and is visited by a traveling circus.
Part 2: Young Jacob’s Story
In the 1930s, Jacob is a promising veterinary student at Cornell University, but his life takes a tragic turn when his parents are killed in a car accident. Left with nothing, he hops on a train and unknowingly joins the Benzini Brothers Circus.
Part 3: Circus Life
Jacob is quickly thrown into the harsh reality of circus life, where he witnesses abuse and exploitation of the workers and animals. He also meets the beautiful Marlena, the star performer married to the cruel circus owner, August.
Part 4: Forbidden Love
Jacob and Marlena’s connection grows stronger, despite the disapproval of August. Their bond is further strengthened by their shared love and care for a mistreated elephant named Rosie.
Part 5: Tragedy Strikes
August’s violent behavior and unhinged mental state puts everyone in danger, and Jacob must find a way to protect himself, Marlena, Rosie, and the rest of the circus.
Part 6: Final Act
As the circus struggles financially, Jacob and Marlena’s relationship is tested further. They must make difficult decisions to ensure their survival and the safety of those they care about.
Key Takeaways:
- The realities of circus life during the Great Depression were often brutal and exploitative.
- Love knows no boundaries and can thrive even in the most unexpected circumstances.
- Friendship and loyalty can help one overcome even the toughest of challenges.
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
Sara Gruen is an American author known for her bestselling novels Water for Elephants and At the Water’s Edge. She holds a degree in English Literature from the University of Ottawa and has worked as a technical writer, freelance writer, and translator. She has a keen interest in animal rights advocacy and is passionate about the circus and its history.
Target Audience:
Adult readers who enjoy historical fiction, romance, and stories of resilience in the face of adversity.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
Water for Elephants was published by Algonquin Books in 2006.