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The Elephant Whisperer  By  cover art

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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Truly extraordinary

Beautifully narrated and an absolutely heartwarming story which will appeal to both animal lovers and people interested in wildlife and conservation- as well as anyone interested in a life worth living

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Excellent book

Incredible story and really well told. Gave me a whole new appreciation for elephant intelligence.

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The Best

excellent. I experienced Africa as if I were on the game reserve live. He gave new insights and awe for elephants.

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Demmie

Beautiful story about rescuing elephants on a game reserve. I never wanted it to end. Beautifully written.

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A Truly Great Book

Would you consider the audio edition of The Elephant Whisperer to be better than the print version?

I did not yet read the print version; however, the audio version is really excellent.

What did you like best about this story?

The book represents a unique combination of adventure, wildlife lore, insight into animal behavior and general storytelling that is absolutely great. I kept thinking it would drop off in interest and intensity, as many books do, but it did not. It is one of the best books I have ever read - listened to. And all the books I have read would fill a really large room top to bottom.

What about Simon Vance’s performance did you like?

Excellent! He conveys the spirit of the story in a compelling voice.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The rescue of the baby elephant and the attempt to help it recover.

Any additional comments?

I purchased a Kindle copy of this book for my 13 year old granddaughter today and I will recommend it to everyone I know.

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Wonderful book!!

We couldn't get enough of this great story. It really makes you stop and think about the wonderful world of animals!

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Don't miss!

Wonderful book! I couldn't "put it down"! Fasinating and amazing animals as read by an perfect reader as well

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I loved the book!!

Would you consider the audio edition of The Elephant Whisperer to be better than the print version?

it is a wonderful read. I could not put it down. It is real stories that filled with courage and real love for wildlife.

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The Only Good Cage....

... Is an empty cage!!. The final words of The Elephant Whisperer. How well that sums up this breathtaking novel.

I applaud all the humans involved in keeping not only the elephants, but all the animals in the wild, wild.

Amazingly written and told. Thus, the is a book to be read and shared by all.

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    5 out of 5 stars

What an amazing and wonderful book!

Without question, this is the best book I have read in a long time. I love it

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