They find it in two giraffes who miraculously survive a hurricane while crossing the Atlantic. Hitler is threatening Europe, and world-weary Americans long for wonder. But when he learns giraffes are going extinct, he finds himself recalling the unforgettable experience he cannot take to his grave. Woodrow Wilson Nickel, age 105, feels his life ebbing away. “Few true friends have I known and two were giraffes…” And who wouldn’t want that? This book reminded me of Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen, but I actually enjoyed it more.An emotional, rousing novel inspired by the incredible true story of two giraffes who made headlines and won the hearts of Depression-era America. His memories of his travels are so intense that he believes they are happening all over again. The staff think he is senile, but Woody begs to differ. The story is told as Woody reminisces as a 105 year old man living in a nursing home. Woody matures and learns much about the animals in his care as he travels with them.

Historical figures as well as fictional characters figure into the story, such as the world’s first female zoo director. The book follows Woody’s 12 day journey with the giraffes as they travel across the country to California to their new home in a zoo. The male seems to have survived the ocean crossing unscathed. The female is injured and has a splint on her leg. Scrounging for food, he wanders into the large warehouse where they’re being kept and cannot believe the sight of them. He’s discovered a couple of giraffes who miraculously survived a hurricane aboard a ship and he’s not supposed to be anywhere near them. Woodrow Wilson Nickel, an orphan who can’t seem to stay out of trouble, is in it again. Looking for your next read? Check out West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge, reviewed by Fulco Library staff, Ellen B.

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Novel west with giraffes