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!

This book was a great read. I would say for all ages. I read the book in under a week even with a pack schedule. Every small break in time I got I was right back to this book. The flow of the story was easy to follow. I want to give the author kudos for sharing this story. Great book slightly under 200 pages before the author notes.

This book was interesting in that it was inspired by a true story. Very simply written. Wish it could have had more detail. Ended abruptly.

I know that most of this story is probably not true, but it was such a fun book to read. I’m not really an animal lover, but I fell in love with Marlene the elephant. All the other characters won my heart too!

The writing was amazing, the emotions displayed in the book was wonderful. I recommend this book to all parents for their children

Good 👍

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!

Was such a good story and nice to be able to read about a different part of WWII. Thank you for a sad but happy part of our history.