• Modoc

  • The True Story of the Greatest Elephant That Ever Lived
  • By: Ralph Helfer
  • Narrated by: Adam Verner
  • Length: 10 hrs and 57 mins
  • 4.6 out of 5 stars (157 ratings)

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Modoc  By  cover art

Modoc

By: Ralph Helfer
Narrated by: Adam Verner
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Publisher's summary

A captivating true story of loyalty, friendship, and high adventure that spans several decades and three continents, Modoc is one of the most remarkable stories ever told, perfect for fans of The Zookeeper's Wife or Water for Elephants.

Raised together in a small German circus town, a boy and an elephant formed a bond that would last their entire lives, and would be tested time and again: through a near-fatal shipwreck in the Indian Ocean, an apprenticeship with the legendary Mahout elephant trainers in the Indian teak forests, and their eventual rise to circus stardom in 1940s New York City. As the African Sun-Times put it, Modoc is "heartwarming...probably the greatest love story ever told".

"Once I started this incomparable story, I couldn't put it down, and I cannot get it out of my mind - nor will I ever. The message of what can be accomplished by training through affection and joy will thrill all animal lovers." (Betty White)

©1998, 2009 Ralph Helfer (P)2019 HarperAudio

What listeners say about Modoc

Average customer ratings
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Absolutely LOVE this story!

it really is one of my favorite books of all time. I read it probably 10 years ago and just listened to it again. I'll wait another 10 years, or maybe less, and listen to it all over again. it's that kind of story!

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Modocooo

Enjoyable, be it, unbelievable. The presentation seemed tiring, dragging, breathy. Overall, certainly, worth a read or listen.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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My new favorite book!

I absolutely adore this book! It's a powerful, true story about love, loyalty, adventure, & survival. I love it so much, I'm going to find & buy the hardcover to keep always.

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    5 out of 5 stars
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Wonderful listen

A great and moving book. Not sure if it was necessarily true, but it was a great listen you won’t forget it. 

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The Ugly Cry

I spent hours crying. not just crying but ugly crying. this is an amazing book and i will forever be grateful. my mother suggested I read it as one of her favorites. My gift to you is passing on a review that will hopefully lead you to reading this amazing heartfelt warming upsetting amazing book

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    5 out of 5 stars
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Unbelievable story that touched my heart.

I can’t begin to explain how much the story of Modoc moved me. I don’t think I have ever read or listened to a book that had me in so many tears. Both of sorrow and happiness. Thank you for sharing this true story with the world. Modoc will live on…..

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Modoc

This is one of the best books I have ever read. The characters were amazing. The narration is amazing. Everything about this book is amazing news well worth your time.

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A treasure

If you love elephants you will love this story. A true story and a treasure.

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1 person found this helpful

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Heartstrings

If you love animals,this is a MUST read!! You will find yourself immersed and the elements will tug every heartstring.

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What an adventure!

Truly astounding. Such love! A true new love and adoration for elephants. It is difficult to fathom one person (and elephant) could experience so much in their lifetime.

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2 people found this helpful