West with Giraffes Summary
West with Giraffes, a novel by Lynda Rutledge, tells the heartwarming and adventurous tale of two giraffes who journey across America in the 1930s. The audiobook version of this novel, narrated by Danny Campbell, is an excellent choice for fans of historical fiction and animal lovers alike.
Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression and Dust Bowl, the story follows the journey of two giraffes named Bessie and Jolene who are sent on a cross-country journey from California to New York. Their journey is facilitated by a circus owner, who hopes to capitalize on the rare and exotic animals by displaying them in his circus. The giraffes are accompanied on their journey by a motley crew of characters, including the owner's son, Woodrow, and a journalist named Genevieve.
The novel is a fictionalized retelling of a true story, in which two giraffes were transported across the country in a custom-built truck. Rutledge's retelling is captivating, bringing to life the struggles and triumphs of the giraffes and the people they encounter along the way. The novel is well-researched and historically accurate, depicting the challenges faced by Americans during the Great Depression, as well as the cultural attitudes and prejudices of the time.
One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is the characterization of Bessie and Jolene. Rutledge imbues the giraffes with distinct personalities and emotions, making them fully-realized characters in their own right. Bessie is the more reserved of the two, cautious and protective of Jolene, who is more outgoing and adventurous. Their interactions and bond are heartwarming and endearing, making it easy to root for their success on their journey.
The human characters in the novel are equally well-crafted, each with their own distinct personalities and motivations. Woodrow is a sympathetic protagonist, struggling with his own sense of identity and purpose in life. Genevieve is a strong-willed and independent woman, fighting against the constraints of societal expectations and gender roles. The supporting cast of characters are equally well-developed, adding depth and complexity to the story.
The audiobook narration by Danny Campbell is superb, capturing the emotional nuance of the story and bringing the characters to life. His pacing is excellent, maintaining a steady and engaging rhythm throughout the novel. He does an excellent job of differentiating the various characters, giving each their own unique voice and tone. Campbell's narration is a perfect match for the story, adding to the overall immersive experience of the audiobook.
Overall, West with Giraffes is a beautifully written and engaging novel that will appeal to a wide range of readers. The audiobook version, narrated by Danny Campbell, is an excellent way to experience the story, bringing it to life with expert narration and a compelling performance. Rutledge's novel is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction, animal stories, or heartwarming tales of friendship and adventure.
