36 pages • 1 hour read
When the Elephants Dance
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Book Brief
384
Novel • Fiction
Philippines • 1940s
2002
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
When the Elephants Dance by Tess Uriza Holthe follows a group of Filipino neighbors hiding in a cellar during WWII, sharing traditional stories to maintain hope and resilience amid the chaos of Japanese and American forces clashing in the Philippines. The narrative shifts perspectives between Alejandro, his sister Isabelle, and guerilla leader Domingo, intertwining their experiences with Filipino myths and legends. The book involves sexual violence and wartime atrocities.
Mysterious
Dark
Emotional
Bittersweet
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
4,105 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
When the Elephants Dance by Tess Uriza Holthe intertwines Filipino folklore with historical events during WWII, drawing praise for its vivid storytelling and complex characters. Reviewers laud its lyrical prose and cultural insight, though some find the pacing uneven and narratives occasionally disjointed. Overall, it is celebrated for its emotional depth and historical portrayal.
Who Should Read When the Elephants Dance?
Readers who appreciate The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah or The Things They Carried by Tim O'Brien will likely enjoy When the Elephants Dance by Tess Uriza Holthe. This novel, rich in historical context, intertwines tales of wartime courage, community, and folklore, appealing to those who treasure human resilience and compelling storytelling.
4,105 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Isabelle Karangalan
Isabelle Karangalan
Alejandro's sister, whose journey from independence through trauma highlights her growing awareness of the need for community and empathy, with aspirations to become a doctor.
Domingo Matapang
Domingo Matapang
A brave and conflicted man caught between his obligations to his family and his dedication to the Filipino resistance, facing personal sacrifices amid the turmoil of war.
384
Novel • Fiction
Philippines • 1940s
2002
Adult
18+ years
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