06/01/2021
Gr 1–3—This work recounts the story of Lawrence Anthony and Françoise Malby-Anthony and their lifelong bond with a herd of elephants at Thula Thula animal reserve in South Africa. The elephants were brought to Thula Thula for protection against poachers, but were anxious and destructive of their enclosure. Ultimately, Lawrence earns the elephants' trust and their bond becomes so strong that after Lawrence's death, the elephants return to his house from miles away and keep vigil there for three days with Françoise. The story is greatly simplified and emotional; the explanation of Lawrence's death is brief and straightforward. The illustrations are expansive with a limited color palette of warm oranges and cool greens and blues. The animal characters are dynamic, humorous, and emotive. As for the human characters, Lawrence and Françoise are white, while Black characters are depicted in the roles of helpers; "hunters" are depicted in silhouette. VERDICT A sentimental but high-interest story based on true events of the bond between wild animals and the humans who care for them, suitable for early elementary students.—Kelly Topita, Anne Arundel County P.L., MD
2021-05-05
A very special bond develops between a group of elephants and the owners of an African wildlife refuge.
Thula Thula is a huge fenced refuge where rangers protect all the animals that live within. No hunting is allowed here. Lawrence and Françoise, the real-life proprietors of this enclave, are alerted to the plight of a herd of elephants, enraged after being hunted and mistreated, that threatens a village. Lawrence readily agrees to keep them at Thula Thula. Upon arrival, the elephants are placed in a boma, a wide fenced corral. But in their agitated state, they break down all the fences and escape, getting dangerously close to areas where they may be hunted. In brief, action-packed sentences, Tomsic informs readers of all the steps taken to bring them back, with the text placed against Hooper’s beautifully realized illustrations of African animals and the vast, gorgeous landscape. It is Lawrence’s concern, patience, and heartfelt communication with the elephants that form the heart of the tale, for long-lasting connection between these special humans and the animals they love is palpable. Lawrence Anthony (now deceased) was a White South African; Françoise Malby-Anthony is a White Frenchwoman. Secondary characters are Black, presumably Zulu. Sadly, the text does not locate Thula Thula in South Africa, nor does it address thorny issues resulting from the legacy of colonialism.
Within its focus on the elephants and the protagonists, this book is lovely, tender, and moving. (author’s note, acknowledgements, works cited) (Picture book. 4-9)