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The Elephant Whisperer

By: Lawrence Anthony, Graham Spence
Narrated by: Simon Vance
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Publisher's summary

Audie Award Winner, Biography/Memoir, 2014

When South African conservationist Lawrence Anthony was asked to accept a herd of "rogue" wild elephants on his Thula Thula game reserve in Zululand, his common sense told him to refuse. But he was the herd's last chance of survival: they would be killed if he wouldn't take them. In order to save their lives, Anthony took them in. In the years that followed he became a part of their family. And as he battled to create a bond with the elephants, he came to realize that they had a great deal to teach him about life, loyalty, and freedom.

The Elephant Whisperer is a heartwarming, exciting, funny, and sometimes sad account of Anthony's experiences with these huge yet sympathetic creatures. Set against the background of life on an African game reserve, with unforgettable characters and exotic wildlife, it is a delightful book that will appeal to animal lovers and adventurous souls everywhere.

©2009, 2012 Lawrence Anthony and Graham Spence (P)2012 Tantor

Critic reviews

"An inspiring, multifaceted account, Anthony's book offers fascinating insights into the lives of wild elephants in the broader context of Zulu culture in post-Apartheid South Africa." ( Publishers Weekly)

What listeners say about The Elephant Whisperer

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Incredible!

Beautifully told and read. It was so interesting I couldn't put it down. I loved the fact it was true made it even better. I want to visit!

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Five stars - a must read

This book wrings everything out of you - from laughter to tears that just won’t stop. Thank you, Lawrence, for your big heart, the work you did, and writing this to share your experiences. Your legacy will live on forever.

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Beautiful and heartfelt

I was captivated and heartened to learn of another's silent communication with our 4 legged friends. I've operated a rescue for livestock and other animals for 20+years and it has enriched my life. Beautifully told one is transported to Thula Thula 🙏

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Couldn’t stop listening!

Now listening again with my young sons. So good!! The stories of Thula Thula and all the animals protected on the land captured my heart.

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very touching moving book.

loved it. sad it over. really enjoyed the magnificent creatures way of communication to him . cried some to.

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Best Book Ever

My new favorite book of all time. i couldn’t recommend it more. A definite must read.

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Great Story

i loved the story of Lawrence Anthony's efforts to save the Herd and his heartfelt compassion for animal welfare. Simon Vance was the perfect Audible performer.

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Insightful and Captivating

This insightful and captivating story was an absolute joy to listen to. I felt as if I was there.

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Wonderful story

Excellent narration and the story and lessons demonstrated with letting wild animals be free and wild is beautiful and important for our time

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Extraordinary!

Sorry when it was over. Some parts were so unbelievable I felt I was reading fantasy. However, loving elephants all my life, I can easily believe that they are as sentient as humans and maybe higher in emotional intelligence.

The smooth dialogue and accents were easy to get lost in, and Simon Vance's reading was perfect. He really seemed to be enjoying himself.

I know I'm going to enjoy the rest of the series.

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