The True History of the Elephant Man by Michael Howell

[Ashley]

I remember watching the movie plenty of times with my mother, and I knew it was the one book that she kept. When it came time to look for a book for this prompt, she didn't hesitate to recommend this novel.

Stories of this man always pull at my heartstrings. Using written accounts by people that were known to have met Joseph Merrick, Howell attempts to explain (dispelling the sensational beliefs) the life and condition of The Elephant Man. This has definitely peaked my interest in purchasing the work of Dr. Treves, the young doctor that made the remainder of Merrick's life, full of as much pleasure as could be done. A lot of people were disappointed that this novel was not completely focused on Merrick; it also discussed Treves and some of the freak show handlers that Merrick was involved with. I was okay with this as much of Merrick's life was under the control of other men, cruel or otherwise.