Water for Elephants

I could not put this down.

Told from two perspectives, by the same character at different ages, this tale was better than I could have hoped. Circus life is mysterious, and while this book certainly cast light on the topic, the reader is left with an undiminished awe. The story was wonderfully crafted and immersive, but the mechanics of the writing won the day.

As mentioned, we are given two perspectives. The first, Jacob at 93 years old. He remembers his days on a traveling circus during the great depression. The second, Jacob at 23, recounting his intimate interactions with circus workers, performers, and bosses. The basis for all glory that this story is consists of the entire narative being done in first person. That alone, done with as much skill, is worthy of a reader's admiration. It was so immersive, there were times I actually felt I was living in Jacob's world.

Finally, the characters were incredibly dynamic. Their psychology was flawless. Their role in the story was precisely achieved. I could not put this book down.