Water For Elephants

I just finished the book Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen last night and decided to start a new "tradition." After every book I finish, I have decided to write a quick review. I love to read and recommend books to fellow friends and readers (you know who you are). :) Because of paperback swap (yes, a plug. I really do love it!), I've taken risks on books I typically wouldn't pick up, because I didn't want to waste money. However, when you're only spending about $2.00 on a book, it's worth a try!! So here it is...Water for Elephants.

The story is set during the great depression, and tells the story of Jacob Jankowski who, after the sudden death of his parents, realizes he has nothing, and goes to join the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth, what seems to be his only option. He learns the struggles of working with a circus and there is much drama to be had along the way :) He also falls in love with a performer, Marlena. (If you know me, there must be a love story, or I'm just not interested!) All of these events are told through the memories of a ninety-three year old Jacob Jankowski, who now sits alone in a nursing home.

Overall, the book kept me interested; however, it wasn't necessarily a "page turner". Worth a read?--yes, if you're a true reader, and enjoy a good story. If you're more like my mom, and can't finish a novel unless it's the most amazing story in the world (*wink)...or like my sister who can't even touch the front cover of a book, or it might burn her fingertips...I would say hold off on this one :)

My personal rating: 6