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What readers think of Water for Elephants, plus links to write your own review.

Summary |  Excerpt |  Reading Guide |  Reviews |  Beyond the book |  Read-Alikes |  Genres & Themes |  Author Bio

Water for Elephants

A Novel

by Sara Gruen

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen X
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
  • Critics' Opinion:

    Readers' Opinion:

  • First Published:
    May 2006, 335 pages

    Paperback:
    May 2007, 368 pages

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Reviews

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There are currently 54 reader reviews for Water for Elephants
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J.M. Gann (11/15/23)

Hands down the best writing I’ve ever read.
I didn’t know what good writing was until I read water for elephants. It’s hard to read because I’m jealous of the author’s talent. But there is no resisting. This is the only book I’ve ever read in three days.
Alexandria Harris (10/29/23)

Phenomenal story
This was actually am extremely difficult book to get into after watching the movie. I think this is a wholesome story.
The entire time you can feel yourself almost present as the author herself.
She gave such good in depth description of the surroundings and I felt like I was actually in the book..
I couldn't have asked for a better, more beautiful way to start and end.
Mostly, people get the story confused. Who knows the truth? I think personally that this book shows animal cruelty, but not real abuse.
It shows that to demonstrate what we have now, shall pass too and to get through the bad to get to the good.
Bella W (05/30/19)

Great Book
More of an adult/teen book but a great overall book. I could read this over and over again. In my opinion this book should be rated five stars because how this book includes historical events and pictures and how the fiction side too. A bit of both worlds.
jsanders16 (01/11/12)

Fantastic
Great for adults, some material not recommended for people under 16. Great way to capture the essence of the great depression.
Mabel :) (01/08/12)

The Help
I can't wait for the movie to come out! The way that the author uses the old-timey dialogue is PERFECT for this book! It helps you understand where the characters are coming from.
amanda (05/22/11)

Water For Elephants
This is my favorite book, I love the characters!:)
mary (04/18/11)

water for elephants
The book was enlightening. I can hardly wait for the movie. I think Reese Witherspoon and Robert Pattinson will pair up just fine for this movie
Heather (04/07/11)

Awesome Book & Not at All Too Graphic
For anyone who thinks this amazing book is too graphic, you must have been under a rock for many, many years. There are certainly graphic descriptions, however, none are that offensive. Sex & violence are a part of life...it's time people just accept it. If you don't want to read about sex or violence, stay in the Children's or Christian department of the bookstore. That's where you'll find your kind of literature. Let us progressive adults read what we like.

The book deftly blends history, humor, and human emotions into a wonderful tale that will entertain just about anyone. For those who find it offensive, I warn you to stay away from a little book called Geek Love. Focusing on the "freaks" in the circus, Geek Love is something I could understand someone finding truly offensive. & it was an assigned book for me in college! Water for Elephants is an elevating story with a heart. Check it out!

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