West with Giraffes – Lynda Rutledge - 5 stars

[Linda C]

This is based on a true event in 1938. Two giraffes heading to the San Diego zoo survive a hurricane at sea with the female suffering a damaged leg. Then they are transported by truck along Lee Highway by the zoo's animal keeper and a driver.

The names of the 2 men are changed and the story of their trip is fictionalized using actual historical detail to create their adventure. Really great story about a boy from the Dust Bowl, coming of age, and an old codger who both have a close connection to the animals. It is told by the boy when he is 105 and desperate to write it out before he dies.

It was a book group read and everyone loved it. There was lots of material for discussion. Highly recommended.

[Joy D]

Nice review, Linda! Glad to know this is a good one. I own a copy.

[Amy]

This has been on my TV offer a very long time. It’s also on someone’s subdue list. I’m not sure whether or not it’s on mine. It might be on mine as well.