The Elephant of Belfast: Book review


Book review
Title: The Elephant of Belfast
Author: S. Kirk Walsh
Genre: Historical Fiction
Animals have a remarkable ability to provide solace and healing amidst the most trying times. Based on real life events, The Elephant of Belfast captures the bond between a woman zookeeper and an elephant. The story is set in the city of Belfast during the time of world war 2 when there was a constant threat of air bombings.
The book chronicles the life of twenty year old Hettie who works as a part time zookeeper at Bellevue Zoo. Violet- a three year old elephant arrives from Ceylon and Is trying to adapt itself in its new home. Hettie is given the responsibility of violet and soon develops a bond with her. The narrative gets into the complex past life of Hettie and her relationships. At the same time, it captures the political upheaval and the effect of air bombings. The Ministry orders the animals to be killed fearing their escape into the city because of the bombings. Hettie resolves to protect Violet.
The story is written in close third person from Hettie’s perspective. The bond between Hettie and Violet is one of the main highlights. Besides this, the author projects certain other characters that impact Hettie’s life such as her co workers at the zoo, her boss, her adolescent fling, her brother in law and her mother.
Several instances in the book make your heart bleed, as expected out of a book that is set around WWII. There are times when you question Hettie’s behavior. Yet you cannot help feeling sympathetic towards her or admiring her to sticking by Violet. Themes of grief and loss are touched upon here. The Elephant of Belfast is beautiful tale of resilience and courage. Its endearing to see what it takes to save someone or something dear to you, even if it means risking your own life.

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