An Elephant in the Garden: Inspired by a True Story

Recommended for ages 10-14 * we used this as a read aloud (mom) to 8 and 9 year old boysIsn’t it many home educators joy to be able to captivate your students in a book that pairs history and fiction? In this book, An Elephant In The Garden, the story was just that… captivating! The setting is Dresden, Germany during WWII and is inspired by a true story about an elephant rescued from a Belfast Zoo to escape certain death as bombers narrowed in.The story begins with a sweet elderly woman named Lizzy telling, what many think are just made up tales, of an elephant in her garden. Intrigued, a caregiver and her son Karl stay one day to hear more. The minutes turn in to hours as they sit listening intently, realizing quickly that this is certainly not a made up tall tale but a very real, personal life story of a family torn away from everything they know by war. A surprising and suspenseful journey across Germany and a frightening encounter with an enemy combat who joins the families journey makes this an unpredictable and engaging book for children and adults alike.Many times throughout this book I was made to pause as the kids demanded more information about the war, who was involved, who were the ‘good guys’, why the war even happened, and on and on. As a parent I was delighted to see their minds thoughtfully attempting to process WWII, from a new perspective: The Germans.They wanted to understand Americas involvement and the details of why the bombing raids took place. This story helped us ponder life for the Germans during a time of division and fear. I agree with the recommended age of 10-14 as a silent reader as the book does have some dark elements as the bombing of Dresden and firestorm that followed killed thousands. Also romance is included, although clean, it may not be suitable for young readers.Overall, this book was inspiring as the author was able to incorporate the horror of war, a focus on helping others and working together, a look into lives of refugees and their experiences as they try to survive. It was emotional, and magical with the addition with this ‘Gentle Giant’, Marlene the elephant that really kept this family alive and together.We picked this book up off Amazon for $6.99 and it will be a keeper on the shelf!

Wow! What a story! And best of all- it’s true! I really enjoyed reading this book and would highly recommend it!

This was a good story. Geared for younger audiences. it is a quick read with just over 200 pages. I enjoyed every word of this story. I would recommend this book for people to read .

I had such a happy and serene feeling after finishing this book. It's a great escape from the realities of today's world, even with the similarities of real-life issues of WWII.

Age-appropriate around age 10+The storyline captures interest while being factual/historical at the same timeEsp for animal-loving kids

This has a similar feel as The Notebook: an elderly person retelling their love story while in a nursing home. It was an easy read and the chapters broke in places where I didn’t want to put the book down.

The ending had me in happy tears. I love a good sappily ever after story.This one had it all, adventure, love, and a mischievous elephant who could ask for more?If you want to read a story that's the equivalent of a nice cup of warm cocoa on the first snowy day of winter this is the one!

A good meaningful story worth reading.