47 pages • 1 hour read
Water for Elephants
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
352
Novel • Fiction
United States • 1930s
2006
Adult
18+ years
730L
Super Short Summary
In Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen, Jacob Jankowski, an elderly man in a nursing home, reminisces about his youth when he joined the Benzini Brothers' circus during the Great Depression. As the circus veterinarian, he navigates complex relationships, develops a bond with an elephant named Rosie, and falls in love with Marlena, a performer trapped in an abusive marriage. The narrative explores circus life, love, and survival. This novel depicts sexual acts, violence, and characters with physical or mental health conditions.
Romantic
Emotional
Adventurous
Bittersweet
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
1,655,392 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen is celebrated for its vivid historical setting and well-researched depiction of Depression-era circus life. Readers appreciate the engrossing plot and the depth of its characters. Some critique the pacing and predictability of the story. Despite minor flaws, it's a compelling and emotionally resonant novel.
Who Should Read Water for Elephants?
A reader who would enjoy Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen is typically drawn to historical fiction with a strong emotional core. Fans of The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern or The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, who appreciate richly detailed settings, complex characters, and gripping plots, will likely relish this novel.
1,655,392 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Marlena Rosenbluth
Marlena Rosenbluth
A talented and captivating performer with the Benzini Brothers circus known for her equestrian acts. She is initially married to August and plays a crucial role in Jacob's life as they face personal challenges and grow closer.
August Rosenbluth
August Rosenbluth
The charismatic yet volatile head animal trainer of the Benzini Brothers circus. His complex relationship with both Jacob and Marlena drives much of the tension within the circus.
Alan J. Bunkel (“Uncle Al”)
Alan J. Bunkel (“Uncle Al”)
The tyrannical and manipulative leader of the Benzini Brothers Circus. Known for his flamboyant appearance, he exploits people and animals to maintain control and profit during the difficult economic times.
Walter
Walter
A clown performer in the Benzini Brothers circus who is initially distrustful of Jacob. Despite the harshness he endures due to his stature, he demonstrates depth and compassion as he forms a friendship with Jacob.
352
Novel • Fiction
United States • 1930s
2006
Adult
18+ years
730L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.