Gruen, Cara. Water for elephants.

GRUEN, Cara. Water for elephants. Read by David LeDoux & John Randolph Jones. 10 cds. 11.5 hrs. HighBridge. 2006. 1-59887-062-9. $34.95. Cardboard; plot, author notes. SA

After Jacob Jankowski's parents are killed in a car crash, he's unable to complete his veterinary exams and ends up jumping onto a circus train carrying the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth. His expertise with animals is quickly recognized and soon Jacob becomes a part of "the show." Prohibition and the Great Depression loom large as the circus owner, ruthless Uncle Al, moves heaven and earth in an attempt to raise the status of his less than stellar show. Worse than Uncle Al, though, is August, a cruel and psychotic circus boss who manages the animals. August is married to the lovely Marlena, the star of the equestrian act. She's also supposed to perform with the new acquisition, Rosie--the elephant who does not understand English. As Jacob attempts to protect Rosie, all the other animals, and Marlena (with whom he falls in love) from August's unrelenting abuse, his days with the circus seem numbered.

Told in alternating sections by a 90-something Jacob and a young Jacob, this compelling and dramatic tale is well read by LeDoux and Randolph Jones. The younger takes on Polish phrases, a variety of accents, and a plethora of characters. Even though the tremulous voice of Jacob the elder and the lower female tones used by the younger reader are at times difficult to hear, this rendition is heartily recommended. Bette Ammon, Director, Coeur d'Alene PL, ID

S--Recommended for senior high school students.

A--Recommended for advanced students and adults. This code will help librarians and teachers working in high schools where there are honors and advanced placement students. This also will help extend KLIATT's usefulness in public libraries.