Interesting Characters 2010-09-06

Reviewer: Gizzy

As most previous reviewers have said, this is a rich tale of circus life in the '30's. The protaganist, Jacob, is appealing with personality and real human emotion. I feel the author Ms. Gruen has well-researched everything-circus in writing this book.
I felt while reading this book I was actually seeing what transpired in my mind's eye-
I could see the rough characters come alive and could smell the sawdust, cookin grease, animals and popcorn. I felt what the characters felt when they fell upon hard times. This book also opened my eyes regarding how a rough slice of life a small circus can be.

Bring on the circus parade!

Better Books Are Out There! 2010-09-04

Reviewer: William Wilson

I listened to the unabridged audio CD version as I drove the last couple of weeks. I know that the book was (and is) a wildly popular bestseller, but I have to confess that the thought that kept nagging at me as I listened was why? I'm not saying this is a bad book. It is somewhat engaging. However, I didn't find any of the characters particularly vivid or humanly multi-dimensional. And as soon as Rosie the elephant was added to the circus, halfway through the book, I had a (correct) feeling as to where the plot line was moving, so no surprise ending. I have no idea whether circus life in the prohibition era was anything like this, so can't comment on the authenticity of the backdrop, but I found it pretty depressing. Altogether, a pretty so-so read.

I love 90 (or 93) year old Jacob 2010-09-03

Reviewer: Marilyn @ ButteryBooks

I loved the character of Jacob when he was ninety or ninety-three. He has been there, done that as he reflects on his life on a depression era circus train. When I think of Water for Elephants, I don't see 23 year old Jacob and Marlena and the circus gang, I see this old man who still stands up for his rights, mainly his right to live his life as he sees fit. The whole story is developing this one character - You go 90-something-year-old Jacob - enjoy!!
Rosemary was another character I enjoyed - so patient, so sincerely understanding.
My main issue with the book - Water for Elephants - not the title I would have chosen. A great title but I don't feel that the book reflected the significance needed for that name. As I was reading, I kept expecting something to exhibit "Water for Elephants" besides McGuinty.
This read was chosen for my book club and what a fun book to plan a party around, would definitely recommend this book to friends, family and fellow book clubbers out there.

Wonderful! 2010-09-02

Reviewer: Kelly Hill

This is one of the best books I have ever read! It has so much to offer...disturbing moments, touching moments, REALLY interesting moments, dry-humor...and many of the accounts by "Jacob" are based on real-life stories from happenings of traveling circuses in the 20's-30's. I will probably read this again in a few months. Great read!

Good book, but light 2010-09-02

Reviewer: David Risinger

I enjoyed this book, but I thought it was light on plot and character development. I purchased it based on the numerous 5-star ratings that it received from Amazon readers. I expected it to be more - did not dislike it, but wouldn't recommend it to reader's who want more from a book.