This blog contains affiliate links. As part of afiiliate networks and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I believe in and have personally used or researched. Your support helps me continue to provide quality content—thank you!
You're about to set out on a fascinating journey into the world of elephants, where you'll discover the complexities of their behavior, emotions, and social structures. From heartwarming true stories to enthralling novels, these 14 books will challenge your perspectives and spark emotions. You'll explore the struggles of conservation, the impact of war, and the intricacies of human relationships – all through the lens of these majestic creatures. But which books will resonate with you the most? Let's plunge into the list and uncover the secrets, stories, and lessons that await you.
Secrets of the Elephants
If you're an adult fascinated by the majesty of elephants, "Secrets of the Elephants" is an ideal choice. You'll be captivated by the book's stunning photography, which showcases the beauty of these majestic creatures. The book is not only visually appealing but also packed with informative content that's both engrossing and enlightening. You'll find answers to many questions you may still have after watching documentaries about elephants. The photography is excellent, with amazing elephant photographs that will leave you in awe. If you're drawn to elephants because of their majesty, you won't regret buying this book – it's perfect!
Best For: Adults fascinated by the majesty of elephants who want to learn more about these animals through stunning photography and informative content.
Pros:
- Stunning and beautiful photography that showcases the majesty of elephants
- Informative and engrossing content that answers many questions about elephants
- Excellent and awe-inspiring elephant photographs that will leave readers captivated
Cons:
– None mentioned in the provided text
The Elephant Whisperer
Discovering the intricacies of elephant behavior and the importance of conservation, "The Elephant Whisperer" stands out as a top choice for adults seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read. As you plunge into the book, you'll find yourself immersed in the author's personal experiences of living with and learning from elephants in the African wilderness. You'll encounter close encounters with wild animals, and reflect on the lessons the author has learned from them. The book conveys a powerful message about the interconnectedness of all life forms and the importance of respecting and preserving the natural world, highlighting the emotional and intelligent nature of elephants and the need for humans to coexist with them in harmony.
Best For: Adults seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read about wildlife conservation and the natural world.
Pros:
- Engaging storytelling that immerses readers in the author's personal experiences with elephants in the African wilderness
- Emotionally resonant and educational, conveying a powerful message about the importance of respecting and preserving the natural world
- Highlights the emotional and intelligent nature of elephants, inspiring readers to coexist with them in harmony
Cons:
- May be too focused on the author's personal experiences for readers seeking a more scientific or informative approach to wildlife conservation
- Some readers may find the book's emotional depth overwhelming or difficult to process
- Limited appeal to readers who are not interested in wildlife conservation or the natural world
The Memory of an Elephant
When you're looking for a book that will touch your heart and broaden your understanding of the animal kingdom, "The Memory of an Elephant" is an unforgettable choice. This emotional and awe-inspiring love story will bring you to tears, making it one of the most moving books you'll ever read. The eloquent and poetic writing vividly brings the characters to life, especially Ishi's first-person interior dialogue, which is astounding. You'll learn about the lives of elephants and their struggles, gaining a deeper appreciation for their intelligence and empathy. This gripping story seamlessly blends time, locations, and characters, making it a must-read for anyone who loves elephants – or animals in general.
Best For: Animal lovers, especially elephant enthusiasts, who appreciate heartwarming and emotional stories that provide unique insights into the animal kingdom.
Pros:
- Emotional and awe-inspiring love story that will touch your heart and bring you to tears.
- Eloquent and poetic writing that vividly brings characters to life, especially Ishi's first-person interior dialogue.
- Provides a deeper appreciation for the intelligence and empathy of elephants, making it a must-read for anyone who loves animals.
Cons:
• (No cons mentioned in the provided text.)
Love, Life, and Elephants: An African Love Story
For those whose hearts beat for elephants, "Love, Life, and Elephants: An African Love Story" is the perfect companion on a journey of self-discovery and compassion. You'll find yourself drawn into Daphne Sheldrick's autobiography, which shares her love for Africa, wildlife, and her family. As you read, you'll laugh, cry, and learn about the importance of conservation and the challenges faced by the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya. You might even find yourself inspired to take action, just like the author, who has dedicated her life to rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned elephants and rhinos. The book raises tough questions about conservation and progress, but it's a must-read for anyone passionate about African wildlife and the people working to protect it.
Best For: Elephant lovers and those interested in African wildlife and conservation who want to be inspired by a heartwarming and thought-provoking autobiography.
Pros:
- Inspiring and emotional storytelling that sparks compassion and self-discovery
- Provides insight into the importance of conservation and the challenges faced by the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
- A must-read for anyone passionate about African wildlife and the people working to protect it
Cons:
- May evoke strong emotions due to the heart-wrenching stories of orphaned elephants and rhinos
- Raises tough questions about conservation and progress that may be uncomfortable to consider
- May inspire readers to take action, which could lead to a new commitment of time and resources to support conservation efforts
Modoc: The True Story of the Greatest Elephant That Ever Lived
If you're an animal lover or someone fascinated by the human-animal bond, "Modoc: The True Story of the Greatest Elephant That Ever Lived" is a must-read that will resonate deeply with you. You'll be drawn into the heartwarming story of a boy and an elephant born on the same day, who grow up together, sharing an unbreakable bond. As a pet owner, you'll likely relate to the understanding between Bram and Modoc, and the book's emotional appeal will evoke strong feelings. With its beautifully written narrative, "Modoc" is a great read that will stay with you long after finishing the book. You'll love every bit of it, and it's highly recommended for anyone who loves elephants, animals, or animal-human relationship stories.
Best For: Animal lovers, those interested in training, and readers who appreciate heartwarming stories about the human-animal bond.
Pros:
- Emotionally resonant and touching true story that evokes strong feelings
- Beautifully written narrative that is a great read for those who love elephants, animals, or animal-human relationship stories
- Inspires a strong emotional connection and is a must-read for animal lovers
Cons:
- Some readers may be skeptical about the truth of the story and have done research to verify the facts
- The author's writing style is not perfect, and some readers may find it romanticized or less than perfect
- The book has a timeline disconnect, and some critical thinkers may call out the inconsistencies
An Elephant in the Garden: Inspired by a True Story
You'll find that "An Elephant in the Garden: Inspired by a True Story" is the perfect choice for adults seeking a historical fiction novel that explores the complexities of war, sacrifice, and human relationships. Based on a true story, this novel by Michael Morpurgo masterfully weaves a tale of an elephant's rescue during the devastating fire bombing of Dresden, Germany in 1945. You'll be drawn into the story of a sweet elderly woman, Lizzy, who shares her extraordinary experience of having an elephant in her garden. As you read, you'll appreciate the author's authentic portrayal of wartime difficulties, the importance of helping others, and the power of a mother's love. With its engaging dual timeline, this novel will both educate and entertain you.
Best For: Best For: adults seeking a historical fiction novel that explores the complexities of war, sacrifice, and human relationships, as well as early middle grade students or those who really want to learn about the war.
Pros:
- A well-written and engaging tale that explores the difficulty of war time
- Highlights the importance of helping others and working together
- A powerful dual timeline novel that will educate and entertain
Cons:
- None mentioned in the review
- None mentioned in the review
- None mentioned in the review
Elephant Company: Inspiring Story of Unlikely Hero
History buffs and animal lovers alike will find themselves drawn to "Elephant Company: Inspiring Story of Unlikely Hero", a true story that masterfully weaves together the threads of human-animal relationships, World War II history, and the teak harvesting industry in Burma. You'll be inspired by the remarkable story of Col. James "Elephant Bill" Williams, who revolutionized the teak industry by introducing a humane approach to elephant training. As you plunge into the book, you'll discover the incredible bond between Williams and his elephants, particularly Bandoola, a massive tusker who played a pivotal role in his life. The author's vivid descriptions and meticulous research will transport you to the jungles of Burma, where you'll experience the suspense and drama of World War II through the eyes of Williams and his Elephant Company.
Best For: This book is ideal for history enthusiasts, animal lovers, and anyone interested in inspiring true stories of human-animal relationships and World War II history.
Pros:
- Inspiring true story that highlights the importance of human-animal relationships and humane treatment of animals
- Well-researched and vividly written, making the story come alive for readers
- Provides a unique perspective on World War II history, highlighting the role of elephants in the war effort
Cons:
- Some readers may find the descriptions of animal cruelty and war scenes disturbing
- The book may not appeal to readers who are not interested in history or animal stories
- The book's focus on World War II and the teak industry may not be of interest to all readers
Elephant Reflections
Elephant Reflections is a treasure trove of emotional connections, where each photograph is a masterpiece that evokes feelings that will linger in your mind's eye forever. You'll find yourself drawn into the world of these majestic creatures, where each picture tells a story that'll touch your heart. The photography is stunning, with every angle and shot showcasing the beauty and artistic power of these animals. You'll get lost in the gorgeous pictures, and the writing by Dale Peterson will captivate you with its passion and love for elephants. This book is a must-have for any elephant enthusiast, and it makes a perfect gift for those who share your passion. With its breathtaking photography and engaging content, you'll find yourself returning to it again and again.
Best For: Elephant enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a beautiful coffee table book that evokes emotions and sparks a deeper connection with these majestic creatures.
Pros:
- Emotional and impactful photography that evokes feelings and tells a story
- Stunning and artistic photographs that showcase the beauty of elephants
- Engaging and passionate writing that complements the photography and adds depth to the book
Cons:
- None mentioned in the reviews, but potentially may not be suitable for those who are not interested in elephants or nature
- The book may be too emotionally powerful for some readers, making it difficult to put down
- No specific criticisms or negative reviews were mentioned in the provided text
When Elephants Weep: The Emotional Lives of Animals
If you're looking for a book that explores the emotional lives of animals, then "When Elephants Weep: The Emotional Lives of Animals" is an excellent choice. You'll be thoroughly impressed by the author's extensive research, which covers the emotional counterparts of human behaviors observed in great apes, other mammals, and birds. The book challenges the belief that humans are the only species with the capacity for thought or emotion, showcasing that animals truly are sentient beings that deserve to be treated in like manner. You'll discover emotions in animals, including love, fear, altruism, and anger, and be convinced that humans aren't the only ones capable of complex emotional experiences.
Best For: Animal lovers, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the emotional lives of animals.
Pros:
- The book is wonderfully researched and written, covering a wide range of emotional counterparts of human behaviors in animals.
- The author challenges the belief that humans are the only species with the capacity for thought or emotion, showcasing that animals are sentient beings that deserve respect.
- The book explores emotions in animals, including love, fear, altruism, and anger, providing a refreshing and stimulating look at the emotional lives of animals.
Cons:
- The book is presented in a somewhat disorganized fashion, making it difficult to follow at times.
- The book does not provide a clear conclusion or suggestion for how science should research animal emotions further.
- The book may not provide new insights for readers who are already familiar with the topic of animal emotions.
Elephant Photography Book
You're in luck if you're an elephant enthusiast or shopping for someone who is! This elephant photography book is a treasure trove of stunning visuals. With over 100 amazing pictures, it's perfect for coffee tables or as a gift for fellow elephant lovers. You'll be thrilled to know that it's highly recommended by many, including an 85-year-old sister who's obsessed with elephants and has 50 figurines to show for it! Your 2.5-year-old son will also adore the beautiful photos. While some wish it came in hardcover for better durability, the book's quality and design are still impressive. You'll be extremely happy with this purchase, and it makes for a great birthday gift, just like it did in May.
Best For: Elephant enthusiasts, gift-givers, and families with young children who love elephants.
Pros:
- Highly recommended by many, including an 85-year-old sister who's obsessed with elephants and has 50 figurines to show for it!
- Features over 100 amazing pictures that are perfect for coffee tables or as a gift for fellow elephant lovers.
- Beautiful photos that children, like a 2.5-year-old son, will adore.
Cons:
- Not the most durable and thinner than anticipated.
- Wish it was available in hardcover for better durability and decor.
- Beautiful pictures, but not full-size photos.
Elephants Coloring Book for Adults
For anyone seeking a unique and engaging way to unwind, the Elephants Coloring Book for Adults stands out as an exceptional choice, boasting an impressive 70 unique elephant pictures that offer endless opportunities for creative expression. You'll love that the thick pages prevent bleeding, giving you the freedom to explore different images and color schemes without worrying about mess. As you color, you'll feel happy and relaxed, making this book an excellent way to destress. Whether you're an athlete looking for a calming activity during downtime or simply an adult who loves elephants, this coloring book is perfect for you. You might even find yourself buying it as a gift for friends who share your passion for these majestic creatures.
Best For: Adults who love elephants, athletes looking for a relaxing activity during downtime, and anyone seeking a unique way to unwind.
Pros:
- Offers 70 unique elephant pictures for endless creative expression
- Thick pages prevent bleeding, allowing for worry-free coloring
- Provides a fun and relaxing way to destress and feel happy
Cons:
- Pages are not perforated, which may make it difficult to remove and display completed artwork
- May not be suitable for children due to the complexity of the designs
- No additional features or bonuses beyond the coloring pages themselves
Water for Elephants: A Novel
Water for Elephants: A Novel stands out as a top choice for adult readers seeking a compelling and emotional journey, particularly those drawn to historical fiction and stories about the human condition. You'll be transported to the 1930s and immersed in the world of the Benzini Brothers Circus, where you'll meet Jacob Jankowski, a young man who runs away to join the circus and becomes the circus vet. As you follow Jacob's story, you'll experience the highs and lows of circus life, the complexities of human relationships, and the power of love and loss. With its vivid descriptions, well-developed characters, and seamless narrative, this novel will keep you engaged and inspired.
Best For: Readers seeking a compelling and emotional journey through historical fiction, particularly those interested in stories about the human condition.
Pros:
- Engaging storyline that seamlessly weaves together past and present narratives
- Well-developed characters that evoke emotions and empathy
- Vivid descriptions of circus life that transport readers to the 1930s
Cons:
- Some readers may find the themes of loss and brutality disturbing
- The story may be too sentimental for readers who prefer more objective narratives
- The pace of the novel may be too slow for readers who prefer faster-paced plots
Remembering Elephants
If you're passionate about elephant conservation and appreciate stunning photography, "Remembering Elephants" is the perfect addition to your coffee table. This book is a visual masterpiece, featuring beautiful pictures of different elephants, excellent photography, and spectacular photographs that will leave you in awe. What's more, you'll be supporting a great cause, as proceeds from the sales go towards grass-roots conservation projects in Africa, helping to protect these incredible animals. As you flip through the pages, you'll be reminded of the importance of conservation efforts and the impact they have on preserving these majestic creatures. With its stunning photographs and meaningful purpose, "Remembering Elephants" is a sensitive and gallant contribution to the efforts towards saving these amazing animals.
Best For: Those who are passionate about elephant conservation and appreciate stunning photography.
Pros:
- Features beautiful and spectacular photographs of elephants that will leave you in awe.
- Supports a great cause, as proceeds from the sales go towards grass-roots conservation projects in Africa.
- Makes for a great conversational piece on your coffee table.
Cons:
- Some users have reported issues with the dust cover, such as creases and damaged corners.
- May not be suitable for those who are not interested in elephant conservation or photography.
- No specific information is provided about the conservation projects that the proceeds support.
An Elephant in My Kitchen
When you're an animal lover seeking a deeply moving and thought-provoking read, "An Elephant in My Kitchen: What the Herd Taught Me About Love, Courage, and Survival" is a must-have on your bookshelf. This book is a heartfelt continuation of the author's husband's book "The Elephant Whisperer" and packs a similar emotional punch. As you plunge into the world of Thula Thula Game Reserve, founded by the author and her late husband Lawrence Anthony, you'll be struck by their respect, commitment, and love for nature and its inhabitants. Through personal stories of raising orphaned animals and fighting against poaching, you'll be inspired by the author's courage and dedication to protecting these magnificent creatures. Get ready to be moved to tears and action as you explore the themes of love, courage, and survival in this unforgettable read.
Best For: Animal lovers, conservationists, and anyone looking for a moving and thought-provoking read.
Pros:
- Emotionally moving and thought-provoking, making it a great read for those who care about animal conservation
- Inspiring personal stories of raising orphaned animals and fighting against poaching
- Highlights the importance of education and awareness about animal conservation, making it a great resource for those looking to learn more
Cons:
- May be too emotionally challenging for some readers, especially those who are sensitive to animal cruelty
- Some readers may find the descriptions of poaching and animal suffering to be disturbing or triggering
- The book may not provide a comprehensive solution to the poaching problem, which may leave some readers feeling frustrated or helpless
Factors to Consider When Choosing Elephant Books for Adults
When selecting an elephant book that resonates with you, you'll want to ponder several key factors. You should think about the book's genre, as some stories are meant to entertain while others aim to educate or inspire. Additionally, you'll want to reflect on the author's style, how elephants are portrayed, the historical context, and whether you form an emotional connection with the narrative.
Book Genre
Choosing the right book genre is crucial when selecting an elephant book that resonates with your reading preferences. You might prefer historical fiction novels like Water for Elephants, which blend factual events with imagined characters and storylines to create a rich and immersive reading experience. Alternatively, you might enjoy romance novels featuring elephants, which explore the emotional connections between humans and animals, adding a deeper layer of complexity to the narrative. If you're in the mood for something more thrilling, mystery and thriller novels involving elephants can heighten tension and suspense in the plot.
On the other hand, if you're looking for educational content, non-fiction books about elephants focused on conservation or wildlife provide factual information about the species and their habitats. Fantasy novels featuring elephants can also offer a unique and engrossing reading experience, while fiction books often weave together past and present narratives to explore themes of love, loss, and identity. Memoirs like "An Elephant in My Kitchen" offer personal stories and experiences, and photography books like "Remembering Elephants" showcase high-quality images to raise awareness and funds for conservation efforts.
Author's Style
As you explore the world of elephant books for adults, you'll notice that the author's writing style plays a significant role in shaping your reading experience. The way an author writes can transport you to a specific time and place, evoke strong emotions, and even inspire you to take action. Sara Gruen's vivid and descriptive writing style in Water for Elephants, for instance, allows readers to visualize the circus setting and its characters. Her lyrical language and poetic descriptions add depth and complexity to the story. The author's tone can also influence your emotional response, making you feel a sense of sensitivity and gallantry towards the animals. Additionally, the level of research and authenticity in an author's writing can add depth to the story, as seen in Gruen's research on circuses and elephants during the Great Depression. When choosing an elephant book, consider the author's writing style and how it will impact your reading experience. Do you prefer a more lyrical and poetic approach or a straightforward, factual narrative?
Elephant Portrayal
Several elephant books for adults have captured readers' imaginations, but few have done so with the level of accuracy and empathy as those that genuinely portray elephant behavior and emotions. When choosing a book, you should consider how realistically elephants are depicted. Do the authors rely on stereotypes or outdated information, or do they present a nuanced understanding of elephant social structures, communication methods, and habitats?
You'll want to look for books that highlight the complexity and intelligence of elephants. Do the authors acknowledge their emotional lives, including their capacity for empathy, grief, and joy? Are the elephants portrayed as individuals with unique personalities, or are they treated as a monolithic entity? A book that takes the time to thoughtfully explore these aspects of elephant nature will likely provide a more engaging and educational reading experience. By considering the portrayal of elephants, you'll be able to find a book that resonates with you and deepens your appreciation for these incredible creatures.
Historical Context
When you're searching for elephant books that truly resonate with you, considering the historical context in which the story is set can greatly enhance your reading experience. For instance, the novel "Water for Elephants" is set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, which adds depth and authenticity to the story. This significant historical event, which lasted from 1929 to the late 1930s, affected many people's lives, including those in the circus industry. The 1930s was also a time of significant change and growth for the circus industry, with many circuses struggling to survive during the economic downturn.
The accuracy and authenticity of the historical context can also impact your engagement and appreciation of the book. By understanding the social hierarchy of the circus during that time, you'll better grasp the complex relationships between characters. Additionally, the mistreatment and exploitation of circus animals, particularly elephants, which was a common practice during the 1920s and 1930s, adds a layer of complexity to the story. Considering the historical context will allow you to better understand the themes and characters, making your reading experience more immersive and rewarding.
Emotional Connection
Beyond the historical context, an emotional connection with the story and its characters is crucial to fully immersing yourself in an elephant book. You want to feel invested in the elephant's journey, whether it's a heartwarming tale of friendship or a heart-wrenching account of conservation efforts. When choosing an elephant book, consider whether the author has created relatable characters that evoke emotions within you.
As you read, ask yourself if you're empathizing with the elephant's struggles or celebrating its triumphs. Do the characters' motivations resonate with you, or do you find yourself questioning their actions? The best elephant books for adults are those that strike a chord and leave a lasting impression long after you finish reading. So, pay attention to how you're feeling as you read. Are you inspired, saddened, or motivated to take action? If the answer is yes, then you've found a book that has successfully made an emotional connection with you.
Erzsebet Frey (Eli Frey) is an ecologist and online entrepreneur with a Master of Science in Ecology from the University of Belgrade. Originally from Serbia, she has lived in Sri Lanka since 2017. Eli has worked internationally in countries like Oman, Brazil, Germany, and Sri Lanka. In 2018, she expanded into SEO and blogging, completing courses from UC Davis and Edinburgh. Eli has founded multiple websites focused on biology, ecology, environmental science, sustainable and simple living, and outdoor activities. She enjoys creating nature and simple living videos on YouTube and participates in speleology, diving, and hiking.