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The Elephant of Belfast: A Novel

Author:
S. Kirk Walsh
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Unabridged Audiobook

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Ratings
Book
57
Narrator
24
Release Date
April 6, 2021
Duration
10 hours 51 minutes
Summary
Inspired by true events, this vivid and moving story of a young woman zookeeper and the elephant she’s compelled to protect through the German blitz of Belfast during WWll

Belfast, October 1940. Twenty-year-old zookeeper Hettie Quin arrives at the city docks in time to meet her new charge: an orphaned three-year-old Indian elephant named Violet. As Violet adjusts to her new solitary life in captivity and Hettie mourns the recent loss of her sister and the abandonment of her father, new storm clouds gather. A world war rages, threatening a city already reeling from escalating tensions between British Loyalists and those fighting for a free and unified Ireland.

The relative peace is shattered by air-raid sirens on the evening of Easter Tuesday 1941. Over the course of the next five hours, hundreds of bombs rain down upon Belfast, claiming almost a thousand lives and decimating the city. Dodging the debris and carnage of the Luftwaffe attack, Hettie runs to the zoo to make sure that Violet is unharmed. The harrowing ordeal and ensuing aftermath set the pair on a surprising path that highlights the indelible, singular bond that often brings mankind and animals together during horrifying times.

Inspired by a largely forgotten chapter of World War II, S. Kirk Walsh deftly renders the changing relationship between Hettie and Violet, and their growing dependence on each other for survival and solace. The Elephant of Belfast is a complicated and beguiling portrait of hope and resilience—and how love can sustain us during the darkest moments of our lives.
Reviews
Profile Avatar Lia Suzanne W. May 2024

Loved it, loved it, loved it! A heartwarming read for elephant lovers everywhere. The narrator did a fine job distinguishing between characters without doing totally different voices. And what a joy to hear it read with the Irish accent.

Profile Avatar Chrystal W. Sep 2024

The narration couldn’t have been better! The story comes alive in her voice. The story itself is interesting. A WWII viewpoint that isn’t often published/discussed (outside of Ireland I suppose). Only 4 stars because I craved a better ending. What happens to Hedi and Violet? A beautiful story without closure or an ending. Maybe there’s a 2nd book in the works? I hope so.

Profile Avatar Donna S Jul 2024

Educational story about real history!

Profile Avatar Rosemary K. Mar 2025

Need a sequel - I want more Hattie.

Profile Avatar Anonymous Dec 2024

Really enjoyed the story and the narrator did a wonderful job. But there was one day, when so much occurred, that the day went on and on, and on, beyond the point where the timeline was believable.

Profile Avatar Patrick M. Oct 2024

First book by this author. I’m sure to look at her other works. I really enjoyed the story and appreciate the historical research.

Profile Avatar Sandra T. Jul 2024

Well done read! Ms McCurry brought the story to life. The story gave a unique perspective of the effects of war that many never think about. The main character, Hattie, has you pulling for her from the onset. She feels real and believable and you’re pulling for her on all levels.

Profile Avatar Anonymous Jun 2024

I enjoyed the book. The narrator did a good job with the accents.

Profile Avatar Suzanne M. Jun 2024

I listens for four hours. 99% of it was about a young girl a few of her dreams, some inappropriate sexual acts that I did not care to listen to and had no point to the story. I thought this would be about elephants and the great war, but I’m not about to listen for another six hours to get to the point of the book would definitely not recommend

Profile Avatar Katie Jun 2024

Nothing spectacular

Profile Avatar Elena's Mimi Jun 2024

This was an unexpected joy! I heard a synopsis of the story and was drawn to it because I've been a San Diego Zoo member for 40+ years. I wasn't expecting this to be great I was just interested in the history of the giraffes. This is now one of my 10 ten all time favorites. I loved the narrator too!

Profile Avatar JUDY H. May 2024

Loved this book. I hope Hettie had a wonderful life

Profile Avatar Pamela S. May 2024

I love an Irish accent.

The Elephant of Belfast: A Novel

The Elephant of Belfast: A Novel

Author: S. Kirk Walsh
Read by: Charlotte Mccurry
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