West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge

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 Winner of a Book!

This book is in a league of its own; there isn’t enough space to sing its praises!  A totally immersive story of two giraffes being transported across the US in 1938; it’s wonderfully atmospheric, bringing you right into the Great Depression and flashes of the Dust Bowl.  Even more than that it’s about tragedies, resolve, dreams, and love of life, with connections to animals and our fellow humans. A real winner of a book that will stay with me a long time! 


It's based on a the true story of two giraffes who survive the devastating Great Hurricane that hit the East Coast in 1938.  Although one giraffe is injured, both survive and are then transported across the country from New York to California on a truck with special-made cages for them. 

They are heading to the San Diego Zoo on the direction of Mrs. Belle Benchley, who was the first female zoo director. 

Filled with such heart, this story is not just about the giraffes, dubbed "the Darlings," but about Woody who is the 18-year-old recalling the adventure after a long life. He develops a friendship, or at least an understanding, with the crusty "Old Man," who is in charge of the action-packed journey.  I was touched by Woody's friendship with the spunky photojournalist wearing trousers, whom he calls "Red."  What a trip it was! 


Here are some quotes that made me melt:


"You learned early not to make a pig a pal or your pa would soon be forcing you to thank Jesus for the blessing of eating everything but its squeal.” 


“If it wasn’t love at first sight, it was sure something painfully akin to it.” –When Woody sees "Red" for the 1st time.


“Red was so pepped up, she was bouncing on her heels enough to make her freckles jiggle.” Pg 96 


Don't miss this one!


Happy Reading,

Annette



Comments

J. S. Vila said…
It is an incredible story. Sure It is a very good book.
July 15, 2023 at 6:04 AM
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