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Elephant Whisperer
An Elephant in My Kitchen: What the Herd Taught Me about Love, Courage and Survival
A heart-warming sequel to the international bestseller The Elephant Whisperer, by Lawrence Anthony's wife.
A chic Parisienne, Françoise never expected to find herself living on a South African game reserve. But then she fell in love with conservationist Lawrence Anthony and everything changed. After Lawrence’s death, Françoise faced the daunting responsibility of running Thula Thula without him. Poachers attacked their rhinos, their security team wouldn’t take orders from a woman and the authorities were threatening to cull their beloved elephant family. On top of that, the herd’s feisty new matriarch Frankie didn’t like her.
In this heart-warming and moving book, Françoise describes how she fought to protect the herd and to make her dream of building a wildlife rescue center a reality. She found herself caring for a lost baby elephant who turned up at her house, and offering refuge to traumatized orphaned rhinos, and a hippo called Charlie who was scared of water. As she learned to trust herself, she discovered she’d had Frankie wrong all along.
Filled with extraordinary animals and the humans who dedicate their lives to saving them, An Elephant in My Kitchen is a captivating and gripping read.
A chic Parisienne, Françoise never expected to find herself living on a South African game reserve. But then she fell in love with conservationist Lawrence Anthony and everything changed. After Lawrence’s death, Françoise faced the daunting responsibility of running Thula Thula without him. Poachers attacked their rhinos, their security team wouldn’t take orders from a woman and the authorities were threatening to cull their beloved elephant family. On top of that, the herd’s feisty new matriarch Frankie didn’t like her.
In this heart-warming and moving book, Françoise describes how she fought to protect the herd and to make her dream of building a wildlife rescue center a reality. She found herself caring for a lost baby elephant who turned up at her house, and offering refuge to traumatized orphaned rhinos, and a hippo called Charlie who was scared of water. As she learned to trust herself, she discovered she’d had Frankie wrong all along.
Filled with extraordinary animals and the humans who dedicate their lives to saving them, An Elephant in My Kitchen is a captivating and gripping read.
336 pages, Paperback
First published July 26, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 629 reviews
April 12, 2020
Thula Thula, South Africa, the sanctuary for elephants that Lawrence Anthony created. I have read several books about this amazing man, but now he is gone and his wife works very hard to continue and grow this creation of her husbands. This is her story.
The book goes back and forth, from the past and how he and Francoise met, to the present and the struggles of helping orphaned and abused animals. She extends her work to include rhinos, orphaned or left for dead. Heartbreaking, what the poachers do to these animals, just to satisfy man's greed in myths.
There are amusing parts as well. An elephant who thinks he is a comedian and one who twirks better than Miley Cyrus. Who knew? Heartwarming stories about triumphs, close connections formed between babies and their caregivers. Distinct personalities and amazing intuitivesnss.
Money raising for improvements, expansion, an animal orphanage, hard work, something always needing to be done, created, improved. But triumphs too, joy and love for these animals under their care.i came way from this book appalled by cruelty, but amazed at what Francoise and her crew has done. An amazing woman and an amazing story.
The book goes back and forth, from the past and how he and Francoise met, to the present and the struggles of helping orphaned and abused animals. She extends her work to include rhinos, orphaned or left for dead. Heartbreaking, what the poachers do to these animals, just to satisfy man's greed in myths.
There are amusing parts as well. An elephant who thinks he is a comedian and one who twirks better than Miley Cyrus. Who knew? Heartwarming stories about triumphs, close connections formed between babies and their caregivers. Distinct personalities and amazing intuitivesnss.
Money raising for improvements, expansion, an animal orphanage, hard work, something always needing to be done, created, improved. But triumphs too, joy and love for these animals under their care.i came way from this book appalled by cruelty, but amazed at what Francoise and her crew has done. An amazing woman and an amazing story.
October 20, 2019
I read ‘The Elephant Whisperer’ by Lawrence Anthony a few years back. It was such a wonderful account of how he saved a herd of traumatised elephants (the matriarch was shot dead in front of the rest of the herd) who would have otherwise been put down, and settled them at Thula Thula. It was sad to read about Lawrence’s death subsequently. I learnt about his wife Francoise’s book very recently. This book takes over from ‘The Elephant Whisperer’ and is a warm & beautiful book as well.
Lawrence’s passing is tragic and sudden. In ‘The Elephant Whisperer’ Lawrence recounts the story of the elephant Mnumzane, who had to be put down when he turned violent (later determined due to a painful ulcer), and Lawrence’s ashes are laid near his. Many people who admired him came visiting and so did two herds of the elephants he saved, who just came to the house and sat in mourning. In fact, they return on his first death anniversary as well to the house.
Francoise now has responsibilities she is unfamiliar with. Lawrence handled the animals while Francoise took responsibility for managing the bookings, guests and the food. There is very little time to learn, but Francoise is determined to continue Lawrence’s legacy. Francoise really brings out the challenges in running a game reserve like Thula Thula with her account, where your passion to save animals and converse wildlife has to be so strong as to overcome all odds.
While poaching figures in ‘The Elephant Whisperer’ as well, in this book it actually dominates the narrative. Francoise is constantly worried about poachers getting to their animals and knows that despite the security investments, the risk is still high. There are several attempts – snares are laid, cause injuries and young rhino calves are shot. She tries first poisoning the rhino horns and later decides to dehorn the rhinos. And yet there is a gruesome attack causing painful injuries & death to animals. The poaching industry is fell funded and tragically there is demand for animal products such as rhino horns, though science considers this worthless. Poachers also have access to drones to track animals. If a species neutral history of the earth is written someday, I am sure the human treatment of animals, both wild and farm, will be considered the worst of evils on earth.
There are interesting accounts in the book on how a young elephant who loses his way ends up in Francoise’s house and later kitchen, the lovely elephants, rhinos and their behaviours. I love reading about and watching animals, especially elephants, and that is one of many reasons why I loved this book.
Lawrence’s passing is tragic and sudden. In ‘The Elephant Whisperer’ Lawrence recounts the story of the elephant Mnumzane, who had to be put down when he turned violent (later determined due to a painful ulcer), and Lawrence’s ashes are laid near his. Many people who admired him came visiting and so did two herds of the elephants he saved, who just came to the house and sat in mourning. In fact, they return on his first death anniversary as well to the house.
Francoise now has responsibilities she is unfamiliar with. Lawrence handled the animals while Francoise took responsibility for managing the bookings, guests and the food. There is very little time to learn, but Francoise is determined to continue Lawrence’s legacy. Francoise really brings out the challenges in running a game reserve like Thula Thula with her account, where your passion to save animals and converse wildlife has to be so strong as to overcome all odds.
While poaching figures in ‘The Elephant Whisperer’ as well, in this book it actually dominates the narrative. Francoise is constantly worried about poachers getting to their animals and knows that despite the security investments, the risk is still high. There are several attempts – snares are laid, cause injuries and young rhino calves are shot. She tries first poisoning the rhino horns and later decides to dehorn the rhinos. And yet there is a gruesome attack causing painful injuries & death to animals. The poaching industry is fell funded and tragically there is demand for animal products such as rhino horns, though science considers this worthless. Poachers also have access to drones to track animals. If a species neutral history of the earth is written someday, I am sure the human treatment of animals, both wild and farm, will be considered the worst of evils on earth.
There are interesting accounts in the book on how a young elephant who loses his way ends up in Francoise’s house and later kitchen, the lovely elephants, rhinos and their behaviours. I love reading about and watching animals, especially elephants, and that is one of many reasons why I loved this book.
November 30, 2019
I received this ARC (Advance Readers Copy) from St. Martin’s Press for an unbiased review.
This is an absolutely fascinating book. Francoise is the widow of Lawrence Anthony who was known as “The Elephant Whisper”. The book is well written. Her memoir takes up after the death of Anthony as she runs the Thula Thula Games Reserve alone. I found the book triggered a wide range of emotions from sad, frustrated, angry, uplifted to joy. I could not put the book down. Francoise tells of personal and professional life of the challenges to successes. The author implemented a rehabilitation center for orphaned or injured elephants and rhinos. Her biggest problem with running the reserve was the poachers who tried to take advantage of Anthony’s death. Poaching is an old problem that is getting worse; you would think after all this time we could solve it. Of course, she also had to deal with the politics and bureaucracy of operating a big organization. If you enjoy stories about animals, you will enjoy this book. I highly recommend this book. I do hope Francoise writes more books about Thula Thula.
I read this as a soft cover 6x9 ARC book. The book is 325 pages published by St. Martin Press in 2018.
This is an absolutely fascinating book. Francoise is the widow of Lawrence Anthony who was known as “The Elephant Whisper”. The book is well written. Her memoir takes up after the death of Anthony as she runs the Thula Thula Games Reserve alone. I found the book triggered a wide range of emotions from sad, frustrated, angry, uplifted to joy. I could not put the book down. Francoise tells of personal and professional life of the challenges to successes. The author implemented a rehabilitation center for orphaned or injured elephants and rhinos. Her biggest problem with running the reserve was the poachers who tried to take advantage of Anthony’s death. Poaching is an old problem that is getting worse; you would think after all this time we could solve it. Of course, she also had to deal with the politics and bureaucracy of operating a big organization. If you enjoy stories about animals, you will enjoy this book. I highly recommend this book. I do hope Francoise writes more books about Thula Thula.
I read this as a soft cover 6x9 ARC book. The book is 325 pages published by St. Martin Press in 2018.
April 8, 2020
Françoise Malby Anthony’s An Elephant in My Kitchen covers the six years of the author’s life following the death of her husband, Lawrence Anthony, conservationist, ecologist and author of The Elephant Whisperer. He died in 2012 at the age of sixty one from a heart attack. Together, from scratch, they had established a wildlife animal reserve, Thula Thula, in Zululand, South Africa. Over these six years she reminisces about the past and learns how to cope with her loss. In this sense the book is autobiographical.
Previously in charge of the marketing, finance and paying guests at Thula Thula, now the entire management of the reserve fell on Françoise’s shoulders alone. The responsibility was enormous and fraught with difficulties. Originally a Parisienne, she was not fluent in the Zulu language! In these six years she further expands the reserve into a rehabilitation center for orphaned young, predominantly elephants and rhinos, often traumatized by the poaching incidents they have been lucky enough to survive.
We are given the individual stories of the creatures’ saved; the orphans’ stories are excitingly, poignantly and movingly told one by one. We learn of the increasingly profitable and expanding practice of poaching and sale of rhino horn on the black market. Poaching incidents are vividly, heart-wrenchingly drawn. In the telling of the individual stories, tidbits of information about different wildlife animal species are inserted.
The book reads as a collection of stories, case studies, separate incidents. One after the other, all related in an exciting manner, I found the reading experience draining. The unrelenting tension is too much, for me at least. . At times it feels exaggerated, written for effect. Events are not told in chronological order. For example, we are told of events in the matriarch elephant Nana’s life, of her death and then again later additional episodes from her life. Rather than being told of the creatures, generation by generation, their stories are jumbled. The reader does not get a proper sense of the continuity of time and the ties that bind mother to child to grandchild. Incidents that occurred when the author’s husband was still alive pepper the episodes about rhinos, elephants, hippopotamus and pet dogs.
The author acknowledges the immense help she has received from others and expresses her gratitude toward them. Thula Thula is dependent upon goodwill and pecuniary contributions from others.
Roshina Ratnam reads the audiobook. Her narration is fine. It’s good. She reads quickly, but the content is not technical, nor excessively detailed and is thus not hard to follow. The narration I have given three stars.
As a whole, I do like this book. I would have preferred less excitement, less pulling of the heartstrings, and more factual information about wild African animals. Tidbits of information are thrown in between the gripping, heart pounding episodes. How much you like this book will depend on what you are looking for—excitement or facts.
Th book is written with Katja Willemsen.
Previously in charge of the marketing, finance and paying guests at Thula Thula, now the entire management of the reserve fell on Françoise’s shoulders alone. The responsibility was enormous and fraught with difficulties. Originally a Parisienne, she was not fluent in the Zulu language! In these six years she further expands the reserve into a rehabilitation center for orphaned young, predominantly elephants and rhinos, often traumatized by the poaching incidents they have been lucky enough to survive.
We are given the individual stories of the creatures’ saved; the orphans’ stories are excitingly, poignantly and movingly told one by one. We learn of the increasingly profitable and expanding practice of poaching and sale of rhino horn on the black market. Poaching incidents are vividly, heart-wrenchingly drawn. In the telling of the individual stories, tidbits of information about different wildlife animal species are inserted.
The book reads as a collection of stories, case studies, separate incidents. One after the other, all related in an exciting manner, I found the reading experience draining. The unrelenting tension is too much, for me at least. . At times it feels exaggerated, written for effect. Events are not told in chronological order. For example, we are told of events in the matriarch elephant Nana’s life, of her death and then again later additional episodes from her life. Rather than being told of the creatures, generation by generation, their stories are jumbled. The reader does not get a proper sense of the continuity of time and the ties that bind mother to child to grandchild. Incidents that occurred when the author’s husband was still alive pepper the episodes about rhinos, elephants, hippopotamus and pet dogs.
The author acknowledges the immense help she has received from others and expresses her gratitude toward them. Thula Thula is dependent upon goodwill and pecuniary contributions from others.
Roshina Ratnam reads the audiobook. Her narration is fine. It’s good. She reads quickly, but the content is not technical, nor excessively detailed and is thus not hard to follow. The narration I have given three stars.
As a whole, I do like this book. I would have preferred less excitement, less pulling of the heartstrings, and more factual information about wild African animals. Tidbits of information are thrown in between the gripping, heart pounding episodes. How much you like this book will depend on what you are looking for—excitement or facts.
Th book is written with Katja Willemsen.
November 4, 2019
For those who find animal emotions and inter-species friendships absorbing, this is a wonderful story about the ways rhinos, hippos, and elephants connect with each other and with humans.
Françoise Malay-Anthony was wife to the original Elephant Whisperer himself, Lawrence Anthony, who wrote a book of that name with famed nature-writer Graham Spence about his experiences creating an animal preserve in South Africa, called Thula Thula. At first Thula Thula was simply a preserve for herds of elephants whose habitat was disappearing. Soon it became apparent that poaching of elephant tusks and rhino horns was leaving vulnerable and traumatized babies to fend for themselves in dangerous territory.
Thula Thula gradually became known for emergency treatment of large animals prematurely separated from their mothers. A dedicated team of young volunteers from around the world worked hard to save endangered rhinos and baby elephants abandoned by their herd.
Leadership for this turn in the direction of Thula Thula, also a game reserve with hotel and bush drives for tourists to bring in money, came at the instigation of Françoise Malby-Anthony after the death of her husband, a time when she was anxious about managing the property without the extraordinary skills her husband possessed.
We learn of her vulnerability in light of world-class scam artists who sought to divert from her goal to make the environment better for animals in the wild. Her education in the ways of the wild—the wild world of tusk and horn poaching—is painful.
The viciousness of poaching by unscrupulous actors with enormous cash reserves has changed the entire focus of those in Africa seeking to preserve large animal habitat and populations. Trained security has had to devise ingenious methods of divining poachers plans and methods. This change in focus from trying to create a nurturing environment to defending territory and wildlife against indescribable violence is a disheartening change and a difficult way to live.
Compare those horrors with a young male elephant seeking the limelight—turning his rump to a jeep full of camera-toting watchers and twerking for the crowd. And an exploration of the character of rhino surprises readers utterly for what it tells us of their fearfulness and gentleness.
We likewise meet a hippo initially very suspicious of being asked to step into a green wading pool with a scant amount of water. We meet the handlers who become these distressed animals’ best buddies, teaching them to play despite their trauma, and protecting them as best they can from the nightmares that plague them.
If readers enjoy the stories in this book, one absolutely must make an attempt to locate a copy of The Elephant Whisperer referenced above because of what it adds in richness to the story and the description of the environment and told by a world-class raconteur.
Françoise Malay-Anthony was wife to the original Elephant Whisperer himself, Lawrence Anthony, who wrote a book of that name with famed nature-writer Graham Spence about his experiences creating an animal preserve in South Africa, called Thula Thula. At first Thula Thula was simply a preserve for herds of elephants whose habitat was disappearing. Soon it became apparent that poaching of elephant tusks and rhino horns was leaving vulnerable and traumatized babies to fend for themselves in dangerous territory.
Thula Thula gradually became known for emergency treatment of large animals prematurely separated from their mothers. A dedicated team of young volunteers from around the world worked hard to save endangered rhinos and baby elephants abandoned by their herd.
Leadership for this turn in the direction of Thula Thula, also a game reserve with hotel and bush drives for tourists to bring in money, came at the instigation of Françoise Malby-Anthony after the death of her husband, a time when she was anxious about managing the property without the extraordinary skills her husband possessed.
We learn of her vulnerability in light of world-class scam artists who sought to divert from her goal to make the environment better for animals in the wild. Her education in the ways of the wild—the wild world of tusk and horn poaching—is painful.
The viciousness of poaching by unscrupulous actors with enormous cash reserves has changed the entire focus of those in Africa seeking to preserve large animal habitat and populations. Trained security has had to devise ingenious methods of divining poachers plans and methods. This change in focus from trying to create a nurturing environment to defending territory and wildlife against indescribable violence is a disheartening change and a difficult way to live.
Compare those horrors with a young male elephant seeking the limelight—turning his rump to a jeep full of camera-toting watchers and twerking for the crowd. And an exploration of the character of rhino surprises readers utterly for what it tells us of their fearfulness and gentleness.
We likewise meet a hippo initially very suspicious of being asked to step into a green wading pool with a scant amount of water. We meet the handlers who become these distressed animals’ best buddies, teaching them to play despite their trauma, and protecting them as best they can from the nightmares that plague them.
If readers enjoy the stories in this book, one absolutely must make an attempt to locate a copy of The Elephant Whisperer referenced above because of what it adds in richness to the story and the description of the environment and told by a world-class raconteur.
September 3, 2024
What happens when you and your husband decide to be responsible for a sanctuary for elephants and rhinos, and then you find yourself suddenly alone? Do you give up on the dream or continue it? This was something the author had to face when her beloved husband passed away suddenly, and she was left to manage their Thula Thula Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in South Africa.
Her story provides something for wildlife lovers to truly appreciate as she shares the ongoing conservation saga.
Filled with personal stories, it is refreshing to read about the amazing creatures that inhabit our world, and the watchful care she and her staff provide to them, especially when under threat to poachers.
The author also includes photographs to add to the storytelling and connection readers will experience through her story.
Readers will no doubt feel touched, moved and amazed by the perseverance and responsibility and challenges of this life that are showcased throughout the book.
Her husband wrote, “The Elephant Whisperer,” that gave insights into their mission, but this book can be read as a stand-alone. Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Her story provides something for wildlife lovers to truly appreciate as she shares the ongoing conservation saga.
Filled with personal stories, it is refreshing to read about the amazing creatures that inhabit our world, and the watchful care she and her staff provide to them, especially when under threat to poachers.
The author also includes photographs to add to the storytelling and connection readers will experience through her story.
Readers will no doubt feel touched, moved and amazed by the perseverance and responsibility and challenges of this life that are showcased throughout the book.
Her husband wrote, “The Elephant Whisperer,” that gave insights into their mission, but this book can be read as a stand-alone. Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
December 16, 2018
I purchased this book immediately after reading the preview that was included in Francoise Malby'-Anthony's husband's book 'The Elephant Whisperer'. Her husbands account of his life in South Africa was a tremendous read and I felt moved to read more, so this book fitted the bill perfectly. While I did not find this book so riveting or moving it was still a good read and the background knowledge from 'The Elephant Whisperer' certainly added to the enjoyment. Some of the accounts in the book were repeated from her husband's book but from her side so not totally wasted on me. Her husband Lawrence died in 2012 and she was left to run the reserve 'Thula Thula' without him, even though she knew very little about conservation. Money was an issue and lacking the experience of Lawrence there were many lessons to learn while others were willing to take advantage of her bad fortune. A nice read but if you were only going to read one of the books I would pick 'The Elephant Whisper'
May 2, 2020
Lawrence Anthony and Françoise Malby-Anthony, a married couple, ran the Thula Thula Private Game Preserve in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, starting in the 1990’s. Lawrence managed animal conservation and Françoise ran the lodge. Lawrence had written a book, The Elephant Whisperer, which told of the decision to establish Thula Thula and rescue a herd of elephants. When Lawrence died suddenly in 2012, Françoise, a native of France, was thrust into the forefront of the conservation community. Many thought she would return to France, but she had fallen in love with life in the African bush and decided to continue running the preserve. She learned and adapted through experience. She tells her story in this book, picking up where The Elephant Whisperer left off.
Malby-Anthony establishes a rehabilitation center, initially targeted at rhinos, to provide a safe haven until they can be reintroduced into the wild. In addition to rhinos, she and her staff care for an orphaned elephant and hippo. This book is replete with heart-warming animal anecdotes and heart-breaking tragedies. Her deep caring for these creatures shines through. The author is a vocal advocate for anti-poaching, particularly regarding rhino horns. Rhino horns are made of keratin, the same substance as our fingernails, yet they are coveted for their imagined healing properties. As she says, "I am constantly confronted by the brutality of poaching and it's hard not to lose faith in mankind, but I have also met so many beautiful people and organizations who remind me not to give up hope."
I read The Elephant Whisperer last year, and very much enjoyed it, so I was thrilled to receive an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book from the publisher. Anyone who loves African wildlife, has a passion for conservation, or has wondered about the challenges of running a game preserve will enjoy this book.
Malby-Anthony establishes a rehabilitation center, initially targeted at rhinos, to provide a safe haven until they can be reintroduced into the wild. In addition to rhinos, she and her staff care for an orphaned elephant and hippo. This book is replete with heart-warming animal anecdotes and heart-breaking tragedies. Her deep caring for these creatures shines through. The author is a vocal advocate for anti-poaching, particularly regarding rhino horns. Rhino horns are made of keratin, the same substance as our fingernails, yet they are coveted for their imagined healing properties. As she says, "I am constantly confronted by the brutality of poaching and it's hard not to lose faith in mankind, but I have also met so many beautiful people and organizations who remind me not to give up hope."
I read The Elephant Whisperer last year, and very much enjoyed it, so I was thrilled to receive an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book from the publisher. Anyone who loves African wildlife, has a passion for conservation, or has wondered about the challenges of running a game preserve will enjoy this book.
January 2, 2020
Years ago I read The Elephant Whisperer (by Malby-Anthony’s late husband) and it made me fall even more in love with elephants and dream of visiting Thula Thula. I was thrilled when I received an ARC for the newest book about Thula Thula, this time written by Francoise Malby-Anthony. Her story picks up life in Thula Thula mostly after the passing of Lawrence (her husband). While there are some older events told from her point of view, the majority of the book are new stories from the conservation.
Malby-Anthony gives us a glimpse into the world of elephants, rhinos, and even a baby hippo. Parts of the story were heartbreaking (every instance with poachers made me so angry and teary), but overall this warmed my heart to read about the amazing people helping the animals and also the adorable animals themselves.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher in return for an honest review.
Malby-Anthony gives us a glimpse into the world of elephants, rhinos, and even a baby hippo. Parts of the story were heartbreaking (every instance with poachers made me so angry and teary), but overall this warmed my heart to read about the amazing people helping the animals and also the adorable animals themselves.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher in return for an honest review.
October 2, 2020
4 ☆
In An Elephant in My Kitchen, Francoise Malby Anthony ("Frankie") reminisces about her life with her husband Lawrence Anthony and recounts her struggles to ensure that their dream of wildlife conservation flourishes after his unexpected death in 2012. I learned of Anthony after reading about his madcap but successful 2003 rescue of the Baghdad zoo animals in Babylon's Ark.
At the heart of Thula Thula Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre are the elephants and rhinoceros the couple rescued. Shortly after opening Thula Thula ("quiet, shush" in Zulu) in partnership with a local Zulu community in South Africa, they became a refuge for a herd of 7 elephants in 1999. Elephants are led by a matriarch. With the herd's growth to 29 elephants by 2018, Frankie absorbed their leadership lessons such as prioritizing safety before ego. She populates her memoir with distinctive elephant characters from the baby Ellie who loved his paddling pool to the adolescent male Mabula who wiggled his rump for attention.
And despite the sentimental and optimistic tone, there were several stories of death. Refuges exist because of the existence of threats. I've heard the stories of lone poachers who only seek to feed their families. But I was startled by the professional military assault executed by poachers seeking rhino horns. A full grown rhino's horn could fetch a million rands (nearly $54,000) as illegal trade is created by demand for traditional medicine (that haven't been proven effective) in many parts of Asia. As a foreign widow, Frankie and thus Thula Thula's adult rhinos were assumed to be easy targets. It took years of wrangling and mistakes with her delegated management and security teams in the face of escalating threats from poachers before Frankie became more confident in Thula Thula's continued survival. The little army Thula Thula eventually retained was crucial in advancing additional conservation dreams.
I initially borrowed the audiobook and overall it was a very easy listen. I'm glad that I had obtained the ebook as well in order to view the photographs; more photographs would have been appreciated. Overall, Frankie's memoir is about optimism and perseverance and that message is stronger than her many dips into emotional anthropomorphic characterizations.
Life is a magnificent cycle of birth and death
In An Elephant in My Kitchen, Francoise Malby Anthony ("Frankie") reminisces about her life with her husband Lawrence Anthony and recounts her struggles to ensure that their dream of wildlife conservation flourishes after his unexpected death in 2012. I learned of Anthony after reading about his madcap but successful 2003 rescue of the Baghdad zoo animals in Babylon's Ark.
At the heart of Thula Thula Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre are the elephants and rhinoceros the couple rescued. Shortly after opening Thula Thula ("quiet, shush" in Zulu) in partnership with a local Zulu community in South Africa, they became a refuge for a herd of 7 elephants in 1999. Elephants are led by a matriarch. With the herd's growth to 29 elephants by 2018, Frankie absorbed their leadership lessons such as prioritizing safety before ego. She populates her memoir with distinctive elephant characters from the baby Ellie who loved his paddling pool to the adolescent male Mabula who wiggled his rump for attention.
but tragedy and adversity have ways of opening new roads of hope and opportunity
And despite the sentimental and optimistic tone, there were several stories of death. Refuges exist because of the existence of threats. I've heard the stories of lone poachers who only seek to feed their families. But I was startled by the professional military assault executed by poachers seeking rhino horns. A full grown rhino's horn could fetch a million rands (nearly $54,000) as illegal trade is created by demand for traditional medicine (that haven't been proven effective) in many parts of Asia. As a foreign widow, Frankie and thus Thula Thula's adult rhinos were assumed to be easy targets. It took years of wrangling and mistakes with her delegated management and security teams in the face of escalating threats from poachers before Frankie became more confident in Thula Thula's continued survival. The little army Thula Thula eventually retained was crucial in advancing additional conservation dreams.
I initially borrowed the audiobook and overall it was a very easy listen. I'm glad that I had obtained the ebook as well in order to view the photographs; more photographs would have been appreciated. Overall, Frankie's memoir is about optimism and perseverance and that message is stronger than her many dips into emotional anthropomorphic characterizations.
September 7, 2022
The story is about something with four legs and bit of fur, so of course I give it 5 stars. It was heartbreaking but mostly heartwarming. Francoise had a heart bigger than the animals she was protecting. Actually, she never thought she would HAVE to do what she did. Her husband that started the sanctuary was suddenly gone...killed and she either had to fight to protect the elephant herd or let the poachers kill them.... which thankfully she never considered that an option. There is an attack on an animal orphanage that is horrific, that some may want to by-pass, but overall, the story contains, hope, love, joy and, yes, sorrow, but it also shows why we need to protect our precious wildlife. I sympathized with her...because I worked almost half my life for an organization that was dedicated to doing this. Although my zoo did not have elephants there are 5 other Zoo's in my state that do and donate to Francoise's refuge. We have to really take into consideration that we, as humans, are not exempt nor immune to following the path that so many of the Earth's species have already followed. Extinction is forever.
June 5, 2022
4.5/5
Around 10% of this book is something which i had already read in 'The elephant whisperer' book which is written by this author's husband.
However, it's an easy read. If you like animals, have some interest in animal behavioural patterns this book is for you. How poaching is a biggest problem irrespective of the country you live, struggles to run an animal orphanage, the love and understanding of animals, instances of humans can be such a jerk, owing a private safari etc are the topics covered in this book.
I listened to audio book and enjoyed it through out.
Around 10% of this book is something which i had already read in 'The elephant whisperer' book which is written by this author's husband.
However, it's an easy read. If you like animals, have some interest in animal behavioural patterns this book is for you. How poaching is a biggest problem irrespective of the country you live, struggles to run an animal orphanage, the love and understanding of animals, instances of humans can be such a jerk, owing a private safari etc are the topics covered in this book.
I listened to audio book and enjoyed it through out.
December 31, 2021
3.5 stars. I really enjoyed meeting all these interesting animals, especially the sweet babies. Although I obviously knew about poaching, I must admit that this book made me realize not only how often these killings happen, but also how incredibly violent they are and also how it affects the rest of the herd and the babies. A wonderful read about the beauty of South-Africa, it's extraordinary animals and people but also offering a realistic look at it's problems and issues.
.
.
June 10, 2022
The story in this book revolves around a woman's perseverance and diligence against all the odds in managing a wild sanctuary after her beloved husband passes away. By the time you finish the book, you will realize, If a human has passion and love for the work, he can overcome even mountain-like obstacles.
If you are passionate about Elephants and Rhinos, This book gives you an introduction to their behavior pattern and functioning in nature. Francoise takes you through different endeavors in each chapter to make us understand the difficulties of handling wild reservoirs, poaching problems, the joy of being with animals, Taking care of orphans, and facing inevitable odds with grace.
it is not just for wildlife lovers, It can also be for those people who want to learn what it means to live life gracefully against all the odds life throw at us.
My favorite part of this book is how elephants communicate, sense love and fear, solve problems, and Matriarchs responsible behavior. I was planning to pursue a degree to become an ornithologist and entomologist, This book strengthened my reasoning to pursue this dream one day.
Francoise and her late husband are real human beings with humanity. Maybe old people with child-like hearts, People who bring a difference in the world with their humble nature. We need more people like them to see life beyond the cage of a materialistic world.
MUST-READ for wildlife lovers!
If you are passionate about Elephants and Rhinos, This book gives you an introduction to their behavior pattern and functioning in nature. Francoise takes you through different endeavors in each chapter to make us understand the difficulties of handling wild reservoirs, poaching problems, the joy of being with animals, Taking care of orphans, and facing inevitable odds with grace.
it is not just for wildlife lovers, It can also be for those people who want to learn what it means to live life gracefully against all the odds life throw at us.
My favorite part of this book is how elephants communicate, sense love and fear, solve problems, and Matriarchs responsible behavior. I was planning to pursue a degree to become an ornithologist and entomologist, This book strengthened my reasoning to pursue this dream one day.
Francoise and her late husband are real human beings with humanity. Maybe old people with child-like hearts, People who bring a difference in the world with their humble nature. We need more people like them to see life beyond the cage of a materialistic world.
MUST-READ for wildlife lovers!
June 28, 2020
Memoir set in SOUTH AFRICA (perfect escapism)
In these weird times (Coronavirus/Lockdown) I think everyone is reading a bit more. It’s a wonderful form of escapism (whether that’s from a world pandemic, your four walls or your flatmate) and there is no better form of escapism than this book. In a world when you’re confined inside, Françoise is in the bush rescuing Rhinos and Elephants. In a world where you can’t hug anyone, she’s falling asleep with baby animals next to her. It couldn’t be more different.
This book is the true story of Françoise Malby-Anthony, the wife (but not just that) of South African conservationist and author of Elephant Whisperer, Lawrence Anthony. After Lawrence’s death, Françoise is left in charge of their game reserve, the animals, her reluctant male workers and dealing with the threat of poaching.
It’s a wonderfully heart-warming and moving book, partly about one woman’s struggle in a culture that isn’t fully hers, and of the wider problems threatening the wildlife in Africa. It is really awful to read about the struggles she goes through trying to protect her rhinos and elephants from being butchered to death for their horns/ivory and the stances she takes, which turn out to be impossible.
I went to Tanzania 2 years ago (not South Africa I know!) but the descriptions of the scenery in the bush, the bush drives the animal behaviour and the excitement that you feel when seeing a wild animal is palpable. At points I really felt like I was in the truck bumping along dirt tracks trying to find an elephant.
This book is definitely worth a read for anyone with an interest in African wildlife, anyone who is/was planning a safari or is just looking for a crazy story of how someone can live a totally different life to yours. At points I found it a little over the top and some of the descriptions about her emotions a little dramatic, but that may be just my taste. Overall really good, and great for location.
In these weird times (Coronavirus/Lockdown) I think everyone is reading a bit more. It’s a wonderful form of escapism (whether that’s from a world pandemic, your four walls or your flatmate) and there is no better form of escapism than this book. In a world when you’re confined inside, Françoise is in the bush rescuing Rhinos and Elephants. In a world where you can’t hug anyone, she’s falling asleep with baby animals next to her. It couldn’t be more different.
This book is the true story of Françoise Malby-Anthony, the wife (but not just that) of South African conservationist and author of Elephant Whisperer, Lawrence Anthony. After Lawrence’s death, Françoise is left in charge of their game reserve, the animals, her reluctant male workers and dealing with the threat of poaching.
It’s a wonderfully heart-warming and moving book, partly about one woman’s struggle in a culture that isn’t fully hers, and of the wider problems threatening the wildlife in Africa. It is really awful to read about the struggles she goes through trying to protect her rhinos and elephants from being butchered to death for their horns/ivory and the stances she takes, which turn out to be impossible.
I went to Tanzania 2 years ago (not South Africa I know!) but the descriptions of the scenery in the bush, the bush drives the animal behaviour and the excitement that you feel when seeing a wild animal is palpable. At points I really felt like I was in the truck bumping along dirt tracks trying to find an elephant.
This book is definitely worth a read for anyone with an interest in African wildlife, anyone who is/was planning a safari or is just looking for a crazy story of how someone can live a totally different life to yours. At points I found it a little over the top and some of the descriptions about her emotions a little dramatic, but that may be just my taste. Overall really good, and great for location.
April 8, 2019
For anyone interested in the animals of Africa,particularly the elephants and rhinos and of course animal conservation projects, this book is a very interesting read. At times it is sad, upsetting, uplifting and frustrating, especially the sections about poaching and the brutality surrounding it. It astonishes me that people still actually kill rhinos for their "healing" properties!
To live and work amongst such animals requires emotional and physical strength and a level of determination that I doubt many of us have !
To live and work amongst such animals requires emotional and physical strength and a level of determination that I doubt many of us have !
April 28, 2022
If you are interested in wildlife and nature it’s an amazing book. Mesmerised by the emotional journey of the author with wildlife and her fight to rescue them.
�� ಪುಸ್ತಕ ಓದುವ ಮೊದಲು ಘೇಂಡಾಮೃಗಗಳ ಕೊಂಬಿಗಾಗಿ ಅದನ್ನು ಕೊಲ್ಲುತ್ತಾರೆ ಹಾಗಾಗಿ ಅವುಗಳು ವಿನಾಶದ ಅಂಚಿನಲ್ಲಿದೆ ಎಂದಷ್ಟೆ ತಿಳಿದಿತ್ತು. ಆದರೆ ಇದನ್ನು ಓದಿದ ಮೇಲೆ ಆ ಪಾಪದ ಪ್ರಾಣಿಗಳ ಮೇಲೆ ನಡೆಯುವ ಅಮಾನುಷ ಕೃತ್ಯಗಳ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ವಿವರವಾಗಿ ತಿಳಿಯಿತು. ಬೇರೆ ಪ್ರಾಣಿಗಳ ಅನುಕಂಪ, ಕಾಳಜಿಯ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಓದಿದ ಮೇಲೆ ಮಾನವೀಯತೆ ಎಂಬ ಪದವೇ ಹಾಸ್ಯಸ್ಪದವೆನಿಸುತ್ತದೆ. ಇದರಲ್ಲಿ 2ತರಹದ ಜನರ ಮುಖಾಮುಖಿಯಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ಒಂದು ಯಾವ ಜೀವಗಳಿಗೂ ಬೆಲೆ ಕೊಡದೆ ಹಣದಾಸಗೆ ಬೇಟೆಯಾಡುವವರು, ಇನ್ನೊಂದು ತಮ್ಮ ಜೀವವನ್ನು ಒತ್ತೆಯಿಟ್ಟಾದರು ಕಾಡಿನ ಅಸಹಾಯಕ ಜೀವಗಳ ರಕ್ಷಿಸುವವರು. ಇವರ ನಡುವಿನ ನಿರಂತರ ಸಂಘರ್ಷದ ವಿವರಗಳು ಪುಸ್ತಕದಲ್ಲಿ ಅಚ್ಚುಕಟ್ಟಾಗಿದೆ.
ನಿಜಾ ಹೇಳ ಬೇಕೆಂದರೆ ನಾನು ಪುಸ್ತಕ ಕೈಗೆತ್ತಿಕೊಂಡಿದ್ದು ಅದರ ಕ್ಯಾಚಿಯಾಗಿರುವ ಹೆಸರಿನಿಂದ. ಎಲ್ಲರಂತೆ ನಾನು ಆನೆಗಳನ್ನು ಇಂದಿಗೂ ಬೆರಗುಗಣ್ಣಿನಿಂದ ನೋಡುವವಳು. ಆನೆಗಳ ಗುಂಪಿನ ಶಿಸ್ತು, ನಾಯಕತ್ವದ ಗುಣಗಳು, ಒಗ್ಗಟ್ಟು, ಅವುಗಳ ನಡುವೆ ನಡೆಯುವ ಸಂವಹನೆಗಳು ಅಚ್ಚರಿ ತರಿಸುತ್ತವೆ. ಮನುಷ್ಯರ ಸಂವೇದನೆಗಳನ್ನು ಅರ್ಥ ಮಾಡಿಕೊಂಡು ಅವುಗಳಿಗೆ ಸ್ಪಂದಿಸುವುದು ಇನ್ನಷ್ಟು ಬೆರಗುಗೊಳಿಸುತ್ತದೆ. ಒಂದೊಂದು ಆನೆಯನ್ನು ಲೇಖಕಿ ಚೆನ್ನಾಗಿ ಚಿತ್ರಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ನಾನಂತು ಅಲ್ಸಿಗೆ ಬಿಡದೆ ಲೇಖಕಿಯ profile ಹುಡುಕಿ ಆ ಆನೆಗಳ ನೋಡಿ ಸಂಭ್ರಮಿಸಿದೆ.
ಇನ್ನು ಲೇಖಕಿ ಹಠಾತ್ತಾಗಿ ಗಂಡನ ಕಳೆದುಕೊಂಡರು ದೃತಿಗೆಡದೆ ತನ್ನದಲ್ಲದ ದೇಶದಲ್ಲಿ ಕನಸುಗಳ ಸಾಕಾರಕ್ಕಾಗಿ ನಡೆಸುವ ಹೋರಾಟ ಹೆಮ್ಮೆಪಡುವಂತಿದೆ. ಆ ಪಥದ ಏಳು ಬೀಳುಗಳನ್ನು ಯಾವುದೇ ಬಣ್ಣಗಟ್ಟದೆ ಸಹಜವಾಗಿ ಪ್ರಸ್ತುತ ಪಡಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಹೀಗೆ ಅಸಹಾಯಕ ಪ್ರಾಣಿಗಳಿಗೆ ಬೆಂಗಾವಲಾಗುವ ಪಡೆಗೆ ಎಷ್ಟು ಸಲಾಮ್ ಹೊಡೆದರು ಕಡಿಮೆಯೆ.
�� ಪುಸ್ತಕ ಓದುವ ಮೊದಲು ಘೇಂಡಾಮೃಗಗಳ ಕೊಂಬಿಗಾಗಿ ಅದನ್ನು ಕೊಲ್ಲುತ್ತಾರೆ ಹಾಗಾಗಿ ಅವುಗಳು ವಿನಾಶದ ಅಂಚಿನಲ್ಲಿದೆ ಎಂದಷ್ಟೆ ತಿಳಿದಿತ್ತು. ಆದರೆ ಇದನ್ನು ಓದಿದ ಮೇಲೆ ಆ ಪಾಪದ ಪ್ರಾಣಿಗಳ ಮೇಲೆ ನಡೆಯುವ ಅಮಾನುಷ ಕೃತ್ಯಗಳ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ವಿವರವಾಗಿ ತಿಳಿಯಿತು. ಬೇರೆ ಪ್ರಾಣಿಗಳ ಅನುಕಂಪ, ಕಾಳಜಿಯ ಬಗ್ಗೆ ಓದಿದ ಮೇಲೆ ಮಾನವೀಯತೆ ಎಂಬ ಪದವೇ ಹಾಸ್ಯಸ್ಪದವೆನಿಸುತ್ತದೆ. ಇದರಲ್ಲಿ 2ತರಹದ ಜನರ ಮುಖಾಮುಖಿಯಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ಒಂದು ಯಾವ ಜೀವಗಳಿಗೂ ಬೆಲೆ ಕೊಡದೆ ಹಣದಾಸಗೆ ಬೇಟೆಯಾಡುವವರು, ಇನ್ನೊಂದು ತಮ್ಮ ಜೀವವನ್ನು ಒತ್ತೆಯಿಟ್ಟಾದರು ಕಾಡಿನ ಅಸಹಾಯಕ ಜೀವಗಳ ರಕ್ಷಿಸುವವರು. ಇವರ ನಡುವಿನ ನಿರಂತರ ಸಂಘರ್ಷದ ವಿವರಗಳು ಪುಸ್ತಕದಲ್ಲಿ ಅಚ್ಚುಕಟ್ಟಾಗಿದೆ.
ನಿಜಾ ಹೇಳ ಬೇಕೆಂದರೆ ನಾನು ಪುಸ್ತಕ ಕೈಗೆತ್ತಿಕೊಂಡಿದ್ದು ಅದರ ಕ್ಯಾಚಿಯಾಗಿರುವ ಹೆಸರಿನಿಂದ. ಎಲ್ಲರಂತೆ ನಾನು ಆನೆಗಳನ್ನು ಇಂದಿಗೂ ಬೆರಗುಗಣ್ಣಿನಿಂದ ನೋಡುವವಳು. ಆನೆಗಳ ಗುಂಪಿನ ಶಿಸ್ತು, ನಾಯಕತ್ವದ ಗುಣಗಳು, ಒಗ್ಗಟ್ಟು, ಅವುಗಳ ನಡುವೆ ನಡೆಯುವ ಸಂವಹನೆಗಳು ಅಚ್ಚರಿ ತರಿಸುತ್ತವೆ. ಮನುಷ್ಯರ ಸಂವೇದನೆಗಳನ್ನು ಅರ್ಥ ಮಾಡಿಕೊಂಡು ಅವುಗಳಿಗೆ ಸ್ಪಂದಿಸುವುದು ಇನ್ನಷ್ಟು ಬೆರಗುಗೊಳಿಸುತ್ತದೆ. ಒಂದೊಂದು ಆನೆಯನ್ನು ಲೇಖಕಿ ಚೆನ್ನಾಗಿ ಚಿತ್ರಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ನಾನಂತು ಅಲ್ಸಿಗೆ ಬಿಡದೆ ಲೇಖಕಿಯ profile ಹುಡುಕಿ ಆ ಆನೆಗಳ ನೋಡಿ ಸಂಭ್ರಮಿಸಿದೆ.
ಇನ್ನು ಲೇಖಕಿ ಹಠಾತ್ತಾಗಿ ಗಂಡನ ಕಳೆದುಕೊಂಡರು ದೃತಿಗೆಡದೆ ತನ್ನದಲ್ಲದ ದೇಶದಲ್ಲಿ ಕನಸುಗಳ ಸಾಕಾರಕ್ಕಾಗಿ ನಡೆಸುವ ಹೋರಾಟ ಹೆಮ್ಮೆಪಡುವಂತಿದೆ. ಆ ಪಥದ ಏಳು ಬೀಳುಗಳನ್ನು ಯಾವುದೇ ಬಣ್ಣಗಟ್ಟದೆ ಸಹಜವಾಗಿ ಪ್ರಸ್ತುತ ಪಡಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ಹೀಗೆ ಅಸಹಾಯಕ ಪ್ರಾಣಿಗಳಿಗೆ ಬೆಂಗಾವಲಾಗುವ ಪಡೆಗೆ ಎಷ್ಟು ಸಲಾಮ್ ಹೊಡೆದರು ಕಡಿಮೆಯೆ.
October 8, 2022
Een non fictie boek over de persoonlijke ervaringen van Francoise die op Thula Thula vecht voor de veiligheid van de wilde dieren in Zuid Afrika. Het boek geeft je een bijzonder inkijkje in de wereld van natuurbeheer. Elk hoofdstuk vertelt een verhaal. Zo maak je kennis met de verschillende olifanten, neushoorns en nijlpaarden, hun onderlinge relaties en de verhouding tot mensen.
Indrukwekkend, een echte aanrader om te lezen
Indrukwekkend, een echte aanrader om te lezen
November 3, 2019
I received a ARC of this book from St Martins press. Having read and loved Lawrence Anthony's book the Elephant Whisperer I was excited for the story of Thula Thula to continue. I was intrigued by the possibility of learning what it might be like to live on a wild animal sanctuary with a larger than life partner and a slew of challenges. Lawrence Anthony's spirit lives on in this book, however a great deal of it goes over the same territory as the Elephant Whisperer. Francoise Malby-Anthony offers stories of baby rhinos and elephants, tales of poachers and raising funds for the sanctuary many of these stories are new, but while the book was interesting I was never swept away. For me the author's passion for her project did not come through on the page. If I had read this book first I am sure I would have enjoyed it more.
April 27, 2024
I've read 2 of the books written by this author's husband (and just picked up the third one). I enjoyed reading about the sanctuary he started and the immense efforts involved in saving the lives of the wild animals. Since his death in 2012, the wife has carried on his vision.
Doing what she does sounds HARD!! And lonely!! And underfunded!! But someone has to do it. I'm grateful for people who are tyring to make a difference even in the midst of heart break and cruelty.
Doing what she does sounds HARD!! And lonely!! And underfunded!! But someone has to do it. I'm grateful for people who are tyring to make a difference even in the midst of heart break and cruelty.
July 5, 2018
4.5 stars
By turns heartwarming and utterly heartbreaking, Francoise Malby-Anthony picks up where her late conservationist husband Lawrence Anthony left off in his bestselling memoir, The Elephant Whisperer. After her husband's sudden and untimely death, the Thula Thula game reserve and the animals who call it home, are left in Francoise's wholly unprepared hands. With no time to grieve, she navigates her way through the everyday intricacies of running the reserve—from creating a new rehabiliation centre for orphaned or injured baby elephants and rhinos; to dealing with the tricky politics of conservation; to implementing new security protocols to protect the animals from poachers.
It's not all doom and gloom though. Peppered throughout are some truly amazing and breathtaking stories of the animals on the reserve and the preserverance of Malby-Anthony and the Thula Thula staff. The elephant herd who treks to her house every year on the anniversary of Lawrence's death, to pay their respects. The two young and impetuous rhinos calves who become inseperable. The baby hippo who hated the water, but with the help of her rhino buddy, learned to love it...
There's definitely lots to love in this inspiring memoir.
By turns heartwarming and utterly heartbreaking, Francoise Malby-Anthony picks up where her late conservationist husband Lawrence Anthony left off in his bestselling memoir, The Elephant Whisperer. After her husband's sudden and untimely death, the Thula Thula game reserve and the animals who call it home, are left in Francoise's wholly unprepared hands. With no time to grieve, she navigates her way through the everyday intricacies of running the reserve—from creating a new rehabiliation centre for orphaned or injured baby elephants and rhinos; to dealing with the tricky politics of conservation; to implementing new security protocols to protect the animals from poachers.
It's not all doom and gloom though. Peppered throughout are some truly amazing and breathtaking stories of the animals on the reserve and the preserverance of Malby-Anthony and the Thula Thula staff. The elephant herd who treks to her house every year on the anniversary of Lawrence's death, to pay their respects. The two young and impetuous rhinos calves who become inseperable. The baby hippo who hated the water, but with the help of her rhino buddy, learned to love it...
There's definitely lots to love in this inspiring memoir.
December 11, 2018
This is a difficult one for me. While an enjoyable book, it does have its flaws. They're silly things really, but I cannot ignore them no matter how much I want to.
The 'plot' for want of a better word, is delightful. Francoise Malby-Anthony is a truly inspiring woman. The stories she shares of her time in Africa, her conservation work and rescued animals are not only moving but utterly delightful. Not only has this book reaffirmed my dream to visit africa, but has awakened a real need to contribute to Thula Thula's, and other such organisations', amazing work. Each chapter is like a little short story, and I could not help but imagine Francoise spilling her heart to me personally over a campfire, after maybe just one too many glasses of champagne. She really bares her soul here, and while some chapters had me near tears aghast at her loss and all she's endured, others had me smiling at the adorable and heartwarming descriptions of her brave little charges.
Unfortunately what my studious half won't allow me to overlook is that this book isn't all that well written, and is at times repetitive. Such things are really irrelevant, as the aim of the book is to inform and inspire, not to win literary awards. Inspire, inform and move, is exactly what is does.
The 'plot' for want of a better word, is delightful. Francoise Malby-Anthony is a truly inspiring woman. The stories she shares of her time in Africa, her conservation work and rescued animals are not only moving but utterly delightful. Not only has this book reaffirmed my dream to visit africa, but has awakened a real need to contribute to Thula Thula's, and other such organisations', amazing work. Each chapter is like a little short story, and I could not help but imagine Francoise spilling her heart to me personally over a campfire, after maybe just one too many glasses of champagne. She really bares her soul here, and while some chapters had me near tears aghast at her loss and all she's endured, others had me smiling at the adorable and heartwarming descriptions of her brave little charges.
Unfortunately what my studious half won't allow me to overlook is that this book isn't all that well written, and is at times repetitive. Such things are really irrelevant, as the aim of the book is to inform and inspire, not to win literary awards. Inspire, inform and move, is exactly what is does.
December 9, 2019
I adored the Elephant Whisperer and was saddened to learn of the author, Anthony's, untimely death. This story follows his wife's continued direction of their beloved Thula Thula Wildlife Sanctuary- In some ways even more impressive, since she didn't have her husband's animal background and experience. What they did share was a passion for wildlife-rescue, rehabilitation and conservation. And elephants! What wonderfully majestic creatures! At times, edging almost into mysticism, but then again, what do I know? Thanks to the publisher for an ARC book.
June 2, 2019
If I could give it 6/5 I would.
It had everything that an excellent book needs; it was personal, it made me laugh, it made me cry and it made me angry; not with the author, but with the authorities who continue to allow poaching to happen in SA with minimal consequences - one can only ask why?
I would thoroughly recommend it to all wildlife lovers but be prepared, as you will not be able to put it down.
I can't wait for her next title.
It had everything that an excellent book needs; it was personal, it made me laugh, it made me cry and it made me angry; not with the author, but with the authorities who continue to allow poaching to happen in SA with minimal consequences - one can only ask why?
I would thoroughly recommend it to all wildlife lovers but be prepared, as you will not be able to put it down.
I can't wait for her next title.
December 23, 2019
I loved The Elephant Whisperer and knew I had to read this one too. I was not disappointed. I have a real love for rhinos and was thrilled and devastated by events in this book. The conservationists and rangers on the front lines of the poaching epidemic are real heroes. The depth of the connection and respect between the animals and their caretakers is just beautiful. I will never understand how some people have such little regard for the animal kingdom.
January 20, 2023
I LOVE this book. There are some things that I didn't like as much, some passages that were a little slower or more repetitive, and sometimes, Francoise's reactions to events were a little frustrating, but overall, I like her, and I love what she's doing for animals in South Africa. I cried multiple times reading this book, particularly when Francoise wrote about one animal she connected with, and it reminded me of my cat Lady who passed away last March. I would compare this book to The Fate of the Elephant in the way it both teaches about elephants and other animals but also explains the urgent need they have for protection against poaching and to Eat, Pray, Love in the way it documents a woman's journey to find herself or rediscover herself and how she does it. There are sad moments, tragic moments, heartbreaking moments, and also happy, heart-swelling moments that made me smile and feel joy and peace.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I strongly recommend it if you love elephants like I do and if you like personal journeys, like I do. This is definitely a memoir more than a book about elephants, and I never read The Elephant Whisperer, so I can't talk about how it compares, but it's definitely worth a read and made my breakfast reading times enjoyable.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I strongly recommend it if you love elephants like I do and if you like personal journeys, like I do. This is definitely a memoir more than a book about elephants, and I never read The Elephant Whisperer, so I can't talk about how it compares, but it's definitely worth a read and made my breakfast reading times enjoyable.
October 16, 2019
After the passing of her husband Lawrence Anthony, Francoise Malby-Anthony and co-author Katja Willemsen take up the pen to bring wildlife lovers another incredible chapter in the ongoing wildlife conservation at South Africa's renowned Thula Thula (and Thula Thula Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre).
With remarkably raw and honest conviction, Malby-Anthony recounts a number of personal stories in this latest chapter of her life. Some stories will be warmly familiar to readers of The Elephant Whisperer and remind us of the wonderful elephants who still live under her watchful care. She expands on these stories from her own point of view and also tells of new and on-going events that have happened in the intervening years including stories about the wild animals who have been rescued.
Many stories are fun and lighthearted. Others touch on the deeply moving, soulful themes of perseverance through all the trials that a person in a position of responsibility can endure. As with many challenges in life, sweet success is tempered by the anguish of loss and Malby-Anthony reflects with raw honesty on each of these events. Co-author Katja Willemsen's stewardship gently coaxes these memories into our minds, to cherish and reflect on for our own sake, and to speak of the hardship that Thula Thula has endured and the known and unpredictable hardships that they will face courageously as they merge wildlife safaris and wildlife conservation to create a new, sustainable enterprise. Through it all is the story of resilience as Malby-Anthony and all her supporters work to keep the many people and wild animals of Thula Thula safe from harm and reduce human-wildlife conflict -- an unceasing and herculean task.
Don't worry if you haven't read The Elephant Whisperer by her late husband Lawrence Anthony. Each book can stand alone as a testament to the character of the Anthonys and the warmth and kindness of everyone at Thula Thula. There is no perfect entry-point into real-life wildlife conservation, but An Elephant in my Kitchen is as good a starting point as any and is sure to leave readers feeling deeply connected to the South African bush and inspired to do more to protect the world's wildlife.
Readers are sure to enjoy their return to the almost magical world of Thula Thula. We are sure that they, like us, will also be looking forward to future real-life adventures from the picturesque slice of heaven home to the reborn Thula Thula Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.
Further Reading:
Readers who enjoy heartfelt stories of wildlife conservation will also be interested in Kobie Krüger's The Wilderness Family where a warm and vibrant reality of the South African lowveld is brought to life as experienced by her game warden husband and their family living inside the world-famous Kruger National Park in South Africa. Francoise Malby-Anthony's late husband Lawrence Anthony has also written about his other conservation adventures in Africa and the Middle East, among them Babylon's Ark: The Incredible Wartime Rescue of the Baghdad Zoo and The Last Rhinos: My Battle to Save One of the World's Greatest Creatures, which are stellar memoirs that are both fascinating and insightful.
For in-depth and incredible stories of wildlife behavior and conservation we strongly recommend Gareth Patterson's several books on lion conservation, rehabilitation, and rewilding including: To Walk with Lions, Last of the Free, and My Lion's Heart: A Life for the Lions of Africa. Dame Daphne Sheldrick’s masterfully written memoir Love, Life, and Elephants: An African Love Story also makes excellent reading and recounts a significant portion of her life and work dedicated to conserving and rehabilitating elephants in Kenya. Essential reading for elephant lovers and anyone with a hunger for African adventure.
With remarkably raw and honest conviction, Malby-Anthony recounts a number of personal stories in this latest chapter of her life. Some stories will be warmly familiar to readers of The Elephant Whisperer and remind us of the wonderful elephants who still live under her watchful care. She expands on these stories from her own point of view and also tells of new and on-going events that have happened in the intervening years including stories about the wild animals who have been rescued.
Many stories are fun and lighthearted. Others touch on the deeply moving, soulful themes of perseverance through all the trials that a person in a position of responsibility can endure. As with many challenges in life, sweet success is tempered by the anguish of loss and Malby-Anthony reflects with raw honesty on each of these events. Co-author Katja Willemsen's stewardship gently coaxes these memories into our minds, to cherish and reflect on for our own sake, and to speak of the hardship that Thula Thula has endured and the known and unpredictable hardships that they will face courageously as they merge wildlife safaris and wildlife conservation to create a new, sustainable enterprise. Through it all is the story of resilience as Malby-Anthony and all her supporters work to keep the many people and wild animals of Thula Thula safe from harm and reduce human-wildlife conflict -- an unceasing and herculean task.
Don't worry if you haven't read The Elephant Whisperer by her late husband Lawrence Anthony. Each book can stand alone as a testament to the character of the Anthonys and the warmth and kindness of everyone at Thula Thula. There is no perfect entry-point into real-life wildlife conservation, but An Elephant in my Kitchen is as good a starting point as any and is sure to leave readers feeling deeply connected to the South African bush and inspired to do more to protect the world's wildlife.
Readers are sure to enjoy their return to the almost magical world of Thula Thula. We are sure that they, like us, will also be looking forward to future real-life adventures from the picturesque slice of heaven home to the reborn Thula Thula Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.
Further Reading:
Readers who enjoy heartfelt stories of wildlife conservation will also be interested in Kobie Krüger's The Wilderness Family where a warm and vibrant reality of the South African lowveld is brought to life as experienced by her game warden husband and their family living inside the world-famous Kruger National Park in South Africa. Francoise Malby-Anthony's late husband Lawrence Anthony has also written about his other conservation adventures in Africa and the Middle East, among them Babylon's Ark: The Incredible Wartime Rescue of the Baghdad Zoo and The Last Rhinos: My Battle to Save One of the World's Greatest Creatures, which are stellar memoirs that are both fascinating and insightful.
For in-depth and incredible stories of wildlife behavior and conservation we strongly recommend Gareth Patterson's several books on lion conservation, rehabilitation, and rewilding including: To Walk with Lions, Last of the Free, and My Lion's Heart: A Life for the Lions of Africa. Dame Daphne Sheldrick’s masterfully written memoir Love, Life, and Elephants: An African Love Story also makes excellent reading and recounts a significant portion of her life and work dedicated to conserving and rehabilitating elephants in Kenya. Essential reading for elephant lovers and anyone with a hunger for African adventure.
January 8, 2024
I've not read The Elephant Whisperer (although I think I probably should after having read this book and loving it so much) but this is written by the wife of the Elephant Whisperer after his death and tells the continuation of their reserve and all that has happened there. What I most enjoyed about this is that it's a love story of Laurence and Françoise but also it's a love story with all the wildlife they have looked out for and protected over the years. There's some truly horrific acts being committed by poachers and hunters who want to hurt animals for meaningless bone, but we also have a whole host of amazing and inspiring individuals who work tirelessly to save the animals from humanity. This book shows some of the love, care and time which has been put into saving the animals, especially Rhino and Elephant, and it's autobiographical style makes it a very easy read to enjoy and connect with. I highly recommend checking this one out 4*s from me.
August 10, 2023
3.5/5 stars
An interesting sequel to 'The Elephant Whisperer'. Unlike the first book, this one doesn't primarily focus on the elephants. It focuses more on the progress, development and changes in the Thula Thula wildlife conservation unit after the death of Mr. Lawrence Anthony. It depicts the challenges faced by Mrs. Françoise Malby-Anthony in keeping Thula Thula alive and striving. A good read.
This book interests those who want to know the developments in thula thula after 'The Elephant Whisperer' and the Mr. Anthony's demise. However, it might be less engaging to those who want to exclusively read about elephants.
An interesting sequel to 'The Elephant Whisperer'. Unlike the first book, this one doesn't primarily focus on the elephants. It focuses more on the progress, development and changes in the Thula Thula wildlife conservation unit after the death of Mr. Lawrence Anthony. It depicts the challenges faced by Mrs. Françoise Malby-Anthony in keeping Thula Thula alive and striving. A good read.
This book interests those who want to know the developments in thula thula after 'The Elephant Whisperer' and the Mr. Anthony's demise. However, it might be less engaging to those who want to exclusively read about elephants.
September 3, 2024
Listened to this a while ago, saw it mentioned and added it to my shelf. Very good book about running a large mammal animal sanctuary in Africa.
I listened to the audiobook via Overdrive from my local library.
I listened to the audiobook via Overdrive from my local library.
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