What do you think?
Rate this book
Inside the Belly of an Elephant: A Motorcycle Journey of Loss, Legacy and Ultimate Freedom
In 1999 Todd Lawson’s brother, Sean, died tragically of preventable cerebral malaria at the end of a motorcycle adventure through southern Africa. It left Todd with a hole in his heart ― and in his life. Wracked with guilt over their joint decision to forgo antimalarial drugs, and his own failure to grasp the gravity of the early signs of Sean’s ultimately fatal disease, Todd gets on with life but remains adrift until he meets Christina, a soulmate and like-minded traveller. Together they embark on an audacious motorcycle trip in honour of Sean’s vagabond spirit, embracing his preferred method of two wheels, no technology, all adventure. Riding from their home in Whistler, BC, they sprinkle Sean’s ashes ― carried back to Canada from Africa inside the belly of a carved wooden elephant ― throughout every country in the Americas. Although the 19-month, 23-country odyssey delivers healing for Todd and unparalleled, off-the-beaten-path adventure for the couple, the biggest revelation of all is that they can’t stop they must return to Africa to experience the continent as the brothers had. This time, however, there will be a delivering mosquito nets to vulnerable families suffering the ravages of malaria in isolated villages where nets are otherwise unavailable. What begins as a way to truly honour the legacy of Sean becomes an arms-open exploration into the beauty of the natural world and the people living closest to it. Bitterly poignant, Inside the Belly of an Elephant takes readers on a full-throttle adventure of spontaneity that wheels from harrowing tragedy to uplifting narratives that illuminate the power we all possess to rise up from the dark depths of the human condition.
320 pages, Paperback
Published October 3, 2023
4 people are currently reading
177 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
November 21, 2024
Incredible story and tribute to his brother Sean. Anyone with a love for travel and all things outside of the norm will love this book. Truly an awe inspiring life story that will spark adventure in any reader. Immediately became one of my all time favorites.
February 25, 2024
There is a new addition to the Tiger Coward Adventure Motorcycle Library: In the Belly of an Elephant by Todd Lawson.
My executive summary is that these were three good books folded into one!
I am used to reading books about long journeys, even Modest Odysseys (Steven Sherrill), but it is rare for an author to weave three distinct yet connected trips into one compelling book. Lawson did just that with this offering.
I think that this will make an amazing movie. C'mon Hollywood.
Part one is a gripping and stunning tale that sets the foundation for the story and for the author's life. Todd Lawson and his brother Sean set out on a motorcycle tour in Southern Africa, and tragically, Sean dies from malaria.
This story is the most gripping and compelling opening to any book that I have ever read. I literally couldn't put the book down and binge read the whole section.
In part two, Todd and his partner Christina ride from Canada to South America, spreading Sean's ashes at significant places. This is a good book in its own right. It is honestly written and rich with stories of people met along the way.
Finally, in Part Three, Todd returns to Africa, this time with Christina. On this trip, they plan to ride the length of Africa from south to north with the purpose of fighting malaria by distributing mosquito nets to rural communities. Again, this could be a book in its own right! The humanitarian story mixed with both the kindness and harshness that Africa and Africans deliver would make a good movie, too.
Here are the 5 things that I liked the most about this book:
1. Purpose.
The death of his brother gave the author purpose for his travel and his life. Sean's passing changed the course of Todd's life, and we are fortunate that Todd has shared that with us.
Having such a powerful purpose brings a deep richness to this book.
2. Meaning
Some overlanders travel to set records, some to check items off a bucket list, and others for the pure joy of exploration. Very few write about such sincere and compelling meaning for their travels.
In Part One, the author travels to connect and learn about his brother. In Part Two, he rides to learn about himself. In Part Three, he rides to bring meaning to the passing of his brother. This is simply a meaningful journey!
3. Making a difference.
Sometimes, I wonder if adventure motorcycle travel makes any difference at all.
I enjoy my modest adventures but can't say that they matter more than my personal pleasure. Serious adventure riders, who cameo on Adventure Rider Radio, talk about how their travels change them. But does that matter to the world?
In this book, the author avenges the death of his brother with an assault on malaria. This is not just a story of travel or self-exploration. It is a journey that battles illness and saves lives!
4. Honesty
You will have to read the book to truly appreciate the raw honesty of this book.
Lawson doesn't pull any punches. The hurt and pain of travel, the strain of experiencing poverty and abuse, and the joys of love are all honestly documented. This honesty is the glue that cements these three compelling stories into one really good book.
5. Relationships
All good stories are about people, not about travel. This book has three significant levels of relationships; the author with his family, his relationship with Christina, and the relationships made on the road. All of these relationships make the story so very good. Not all of the relationships are good, but the story of the relationships is!
In conclusion, I recommend this very good book.
My executive summary is that these were three good books folded into one!
I am used to reading books about long journeys, even Modest Odysseys (Steven Sherrill), but it is rare for an author to weave three distinct yet connected trips into one compelling book. Lawson did just that with this offering.
I think that this will make an amazing movie. C'mon Hollywood.
Part one is a gripping and stunning tale that sets the foundation for the story and for the author's life. Todd Lawson and his brother Sean set out on a motorcycle tour in Southern Africa, and tragically, Sean dies from malaria.
This story is the most gripping and compelling opening to any book that I have ever read. I literally couldn't put the book down and binge read the whole section.
In part two, Todd and his partner Christina ride from Canada to South America, spreading Sean's ashes at significant places. This is a good book in its own right. It is honestly written and rich with stories of people met along the way.
Finally, in Part Three, Todd returns to Africa, this time with Christina. On this trip, they plan to ride the length of Africa from south to north with the purpose of fighting malaria by distributing mosquito nets to rural communities. Again, this could be a book in its own right! The humanitarian story mixed with both the kindness and harshness that Africa and Africans deliver would make a good movie, too.
Here are the 5 things that I liked the most about this book:
1. Purpose.
The death of his brother gave the author purpose for his travel and his life. Sean's passing changed the course of Todd's life, and we are fortunate that Todd has shared that with us.
Having such a powerful purpose brings a deep richness to this book.
2. Meaning
Some overlanders travel to set records, some to check items off a bucket list, and others for the pure joy of exploration. Very few write about such sincere and compelling meaning for their travels.
In Part One, the author travels to connect and learn about his brother. In Part Two, he rides to learn about himself. In Part Three, he rides to bring meaning to the passing of his brother. This is simply a meaningful journey!
3. Making a difference.
Sometimes, I wonder if adventure motorcycle travel makes any difference at all.
I enjoy my modest adventures but can't say that they matter more than my personal pleasure. Serious adventure riders, who cameo on Adventure Rider Radio, talk about how their travels change them. But does that matter to the world?
In this book, the author avenges the death of his brother with an assault on malaria. This is not just a story of travel or self-exploration. It is a journey that battles illness and saves lives!
4. Honesty
You will have to read the book to truly appreciate the raw honesty of this book.
Lawson doesn't pull any punches. The hurt and pain of travel, the strain of experiencing poverty and abuse, and the joys of love are all honestly documented. This honesty is the glue that cements these three compelling stories into one really good book.
5. Relationships
All good stories are about people, not about travel. This book has three significant levels of relationships; the author with his family, his relationship with Christina, and the relationships made on the road. All of these relationships make the story so very good. Not all of the relationships are good, but the story of the relationships is!
In conclusion, I recommend this very good book.
November 25, 2023
Beautiful tribute to the author’s brother, including writing about their heritage, childhood and travels together before diving in to a motorcycle trip through the Americas and then through Africa with his wife. So inspiring! Because they covered so much ground and time, it felt like a list of highlights in some parts. I wanted to hear more about the countries they passed through, the dynamic between them through so many months on the road, and travelling by motorcycle, but I am in awe of their adventurous spirit and beautiful, generous spirit.
December 16, 2025
The journey shared in this book offers a truly unique and meticulous account of the developing world. Unabashed, deeply moving, and visceral story of freedom, it's consequences and consolidations. Spreading light from places most of us will only imagine.
May 26, 2024
Book Review – “Inside the Belly of an Elephant” by Todd Lawson.
Ok I do this because, it’s fun, it is my opinion and I’m not paid to do it. As I said my opinion.
But if any author out there wants an honest review on their book, just send me the book.
To understand the title, you need to read the book, and once you have read the book, you understand the title.
This book is about a journey not just on the road but in the heart and soul of the author Todd Lawson while honouring the memory of his brother Sean, the pages are relived from diary entries, letters and memories of Sean, Todd, Chris and others.
This book is about living life, just going out and doing it, not worrying about the what ifs, it is also a story of the consequences of malaria.
The first part of the book is about the Lawson family, their origins, about three bothers growing up in Canada.
The first section could have been named “Sean’s Story” which it is, Todd tells the story of his brother, his travels, his thirst for life, the people he met and the friendships that were made, how they planned a bike journey through Africa but how ended in tragedy with the death of Sean Lawson due to Malaria.
The second part of the journey is how Todd and his partner Chris set off to honour the memory of his brother, visiting places, connecting with people making friendships and discovering in some cases a friend of a friend had know Sean, while taking part in this journey they spread the ashes of Sean in their travels.
The Third part of the journey is Todd going back to Africa with Chris, with the idea to supply children with malaria nets to help prevent the many thousands of deaths due to the disease
Throughout this book, you always feel there is 3 people on the journey, and that is how it should be.
This book brings to the reader the facts of life, we all have to deal with the grief of death, in some cases people have to work through survivors guilt and the impact on the mental health of those who remain. There are times when we all look to ourselves and ask could I have done something different. I say this because while reading this book, it may bring memories of our own past.
This is well written, the story keeps you involved, there is colour photos which is not always the case, (yes pet hate, black and white or more specifically poor quality B & W photos) and its available from the usual book buying places.
Ok I do this because, it’s fun, it is my opinion and I’m not paid to do it. As I said my opinion.
But if any author out there wants an honest review on their book, just send me the book.
To understand the title, you need to read the book, and once you have read the book, you understand the title.
This book is about a journey not just on the road but in the heart and soul of the author Todd Lawson while honouring the memory of his brother Sean, the pages are relived from diary entries, letters and memories of Sean, Todd, Chris and others.
This book is about living life, just going out and doing it, not worrying about the what ifs, it is also a story of the consequences of malaria.
The first part of the book is about the Lawson family, their origins, about three bothers growing up in Canada.
The first section could have been named “Sean’s Story” which it is, Todd tells the story of his brother, his travels, his thirst for life, the people he met and the friendships that were made, how they planned a bike journey through Africa but how ended in tragedy with the death of Sean Lawson due to Malaria.
The second part of the journey is how Todd and his partner Chris set off to honour the memory of his brother, visiting places, connecting with people making friendships and discovering in some cases a friend of a friend had know Sean, while taking part in this journey they spread the ashes of Sean in their travels.
The Third part of the journey is Todd going back to Africa with Chris, with the idea to supply children with malaria nets to help prevent the many thousands of deaths due to the disease
Throughout this book, you always feel there is 3 people on the journey, and that is how it should be.
This book brings to the reader the facts of life, we all have to deal with the grief of death, in some cases people have to work through survivors guilt and the impact on the mental health of those who remain. There are times when we all look to ourselves and ask could I have done something different. I say this because while reading this book, it may bring memories of our own past.
This is well written, the story keeps you involved, there is colour photos which is not always the case, (yes pet hate, black and white or more specifically poor quality B & W photos) and its available from the usual book buying places.
January 13, 2024
4.5 stars! What a life of adventure travel, and an amazing book to pay homage to Todd’s brother, Sean Lawson.
Nine years later, after grieving Sean’s death from malaria, he makes it his mission to return to Africa with a purpose.
Todd’s portrayal of Sean‘s early life and crazy antics impresses upon the reader that anyone that came into his orbit, would have found a lifelong friend. Spending much of his early 20s (when not traveling) in BC towns, like Rossland and Whistler this ran especially true with the many affectionately known dirtbags and ski bums in our communities.
When Todd meets Christine and they decide to go on a motorcycle journey through Latin America and later Africa, Sean’s memory is kept alive with the adventurous spirit of all the people that cross their paths.
Once in Africa, after many months of travel, their final destination and goal of providing malaria nets to remote communities is complete. Their journey may have come to an end, but their inspirational stories and memories of Sean live on.
One of the top ten selling books at GOLD RUSH Bookstore in Rossland for 2023!
Nine years later, after grieving Sean’s death from malaria, he makes it his mission to return to Africa with a purpose.
Todd’s portrayal of Sean‘s early life and crazy antics impresses upon the reader that anyone that came into his orbit, would have found a lifelong friend. Spending much of his early 20s (when not traveling) in BC towns, like Rossland and Whistler this ran especially true with the many affectionately known dirtbags and ski bums in our communities.
When Todd meets Christine and they decide to go on a motorcycle journey through Latin America and later Africa, Sean’s memory is kept alive with the adventurous spirit of all the people that cross their paths.
Once in Africa, after many months of travel, their final destination and goal of providing malaria nets to remote communities is complete. Their journey may have come to an end, but their inspirational stories and memories of Sean live on.
One of the top ten selling books at GOLD RUSH Bookstore in Rossland for 2023!
May 25, 2024
One thing is certain right in the first few pages of this book: Todd is a wonderful and wholehearted storyteller with a voice all to himself. One gets the sense he is speaking to the reader directly, without much by way of distance between his thoughts and what comes out on the page -- even if it feels uncomfortable or jarring to read. I say this in a good way; at times with memoir, and travel memoir at that, I can sense the writer is filtering their thoughts and feelings about what they are experiencing, for fear of being misinterpreted or offending. But, with Todd, we get that he doesn't think he knows it all, he's just there to experience it. What results is an immersive and propulsive reading experience filled with stories of adventures, serendipity, challenge, heartache, accomplishment, and struggles of humanity in various contexts throughout the Americas and Africa. If you've been looking for something to get you off your ass and live the life you are dreaming -- even if it's scary as heck -- Inside the Belly of an Elephant will ignite that fire inside of you.
I enjoyed this book the more I read it. Hats off to Todd!
I enjoyed this book the more I read it. Hats off to Todd!
October 5, 2025
2.5 star really
This memoir of the author's travels and tribute to his dead brother is very interesting when he's describing the geography and culture of the people where they travelled... and it is an amazing tribute to his brother. However, for me, personally, I found their lifestyle and the risks they took way too over the top so these descriptions just made me uncomfortable and somewhat annoyed. I have a big problem with people who take crazy risks with their lives - mental & physical health is not something that should be squandered in my opinion - but yes, I know most young people would not see it that way so if you're someone who loves extreme sports and activities, this book is definitely for you.
What I really did like about the book was their ultimate purpose for returning to Africa - to distribute anti-malarial nets - such a necessity. I will also say that I found Lawson to be an excellent writer .. he can really bring beautiful sunsets to life.
This memoir of the author's travels and tribute to his dead brother is very interesting when he's describing the geography and culture of the people where they travelled... and it is an amazing tribute to his brother. However, for me, personally, I found their lifestyle and the risks they took way too over the top so these descriptions just made me uncomfortable and somewhat annoyed. I have a big problem with people who take crazy risks with their lives - mental & physical health is not something that should be squandered in my opinion - but yes, I know most young people would not see it that way so if you're someone who loves extreme sports and activities, this book is definitely for you.
What I really did like about the book was their ultimate purpose for returning to Africa - to distribute anti-malarial nets - such a necessity. I will also say that I found Lawson to be an excellent writer .. he can really bring beautiful sunsets to life.
October 15, 2024
I read this book several months ago and it has stayed with me in many ways.
As a reader, I loved the storytelling, the pacing, and especially the people. Some stories just pop into my mind at random times, granting me a moment of levity, perspective, or gratitude. Others have come up in conversation, and are always met with astonishment and interest.
As a writer, I was struck by Todd's diligence and vulnerability in recounting his story. Todd and Christina's commitment to recording their trip each day has clearly paid off; the level of detail and scene-building is as sharp and evocative as a novel.
This is more than an adventure saga or grief memoir. It's a triumphant call to action, a beautiful tribute, and a powerful reminder of how precious life is.
As a reader, I loved the storytelling, the pacing, and especially the people. Some stories just pop into my mind at random times, granting me a moment of levity, perspective, or gratitude. Others have come up in conversation, and are always met with astonishment and interest.
As a writer, I was struck by Todd's diligence and vulnerability in recounting his story. Todd and Christina's commitment to recording their trip each day has clearly paid off; the level of detail and scene-building is as sharp and evocative as a novel.
This is more than an adventure saga or grief memoir. It's a triumphant call to action, a beautiful tribute, and a powerful reminder of how precious life is.
November 19, 2023
What a beautiful and inspiring book. Todd takes us along on his emotional journey, trying to cope and heal from what happened years before to his brother. The true beauty of this book lies with the spontaneous, wonderful, and sometimes terrifying encounters they have in some of the furthest corners of the Earth. I just could not put the book down.
February 14, 2024
I love this book. Local Whistler legend Todd Lawson takes you on an emotional journey across the globe on two wheels. If this doesn't get you stoked to travel and experience life, I don't know what will. Kudos Todd to telling your story to openly.
February 25, 2024
As an Alberta girl who grew up playing golf, lives in Vancouver and just got back from Africa, this book slaps. Even 15 years later the continent still feels the same way in the book. Great to relive so many memories!
July 23, 2025
Read early chapters. Not engaged with stories of young people doing stupid things.
I may be missing a great adventure story.
I may be missing a great adventure story.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews