Embracing the Journey: My Thoughts on West With Giraffes
When I first stumbled upon West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge, I was instantly intrigued by the premise: two giraffes embarking on a 3,000-mile journey from New York to San Diego, all while surviving a hurricane and the tumult of 1938 America. The thought of such a heartwarming yet adventurous tale was irresistible, and I found myself diving in, drawn by the promise of history, emotion, and, of course, those enchanting creatures. My thanks go to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for providing me a review copy of this delightful read.
Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, the novel is narrated by the fictional Woodrow Wilson Nickel, who begins his story at the spry age of 105. The narrative structure, alternating between his memories and the present, initially threw me for a loop. I had expected the entirety of the plot to transpire in the past, and navigating the timeline took a moment for my mind to adjust. But once I found my footing, I was completely captivated by Woody’s journey—both literal and emotional.
Woody is a remarkable character whose early life, marred by the losses of the Dust Bowl, offers profound insights into resilience and survival. His connection with Lofty and Patches—the giraffes—goes beyond mere fascination; it becomes a therapeutic bond that stands as a metaphor for hope and healing. I adored how the author infused their character as gentle giants who bring comfort and light into the lives of those grappling with their struggles.
Throughout the road trip, Woody and his companions encounter a rich tapestry of people, some kind-hearted and others with less noble intentions. The blend of personal stories and historical nuances introduced a deeper understanding of the societal challenges of that era—ranging from economic despair to prejudices that were stark and often brutal. Rutledge’s gorgeous prose effortlessly transports us to a different time, allowing us to witness both the beauty and the heartbreak of human experiences. A line that struck me particularly was, “Whenever I locked eyes with an animal, I felt something more soulful than I felt from the humans I knew…” This sentiment deeply resonated with my own love for animals and their often deeper emotional connections with us.
The pacing of the narrative feels energetic, akin to a lively road trip where one encounter leads to another. Despite a few dramatic moments that felt slightly over the top, there were plenty of tender and humorous moments, particularly involving the giraffes’ quirks. Did you know they love onions? I certainly didn’t, and falling down the rabbit hole of giraffe sounds was a delightful bonus!
West With Giraffes is more than just a historical adventure; it’s a profound exploration of life, empathy, and the bond between humans and animals. I’d recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys both historical fiction and animal-centered narratives. It’s a beautiful reminder of the comfort and joy that connections—be they with humans or animals—can bring during life’s tumultuous journeys.
This heartfelt tale left me reflecting on the importance of recognizing the value in all lives, a brilliant thread woven throughout the narrative. I left the book with a warm heart and a renewed appreciation for both history and the creatures that share our world.
4.5 stars!
You can catch more of my thoughts on this book and others at my blog.
Discover more about West With Giraffes on GoodReads >>
