#24 - Water for Elephants - Sara Gruen

Set during the Great Depression, Water for Elephants follows Jacob Jankowski, a young man who, after being orphaned, joins a traveling circus as a veterinarian. Jacob becomes entangled in the complicated lives of the circus performers, particularly with Marlena, the beautiful equestrian star, and her abusive husband, August, the charming yet violent ringmaster. The story weaves together themes of love, loyalty, and survival as Jacob forms a bond with Rosie, an elephant who becomes the circus's main attraction. The novel explores the harsh realities of life in the circus, as well as Jacob's own struggles to find a place in a chaotic world. Through vivid characters and historical detail, Water for Elephants highlights the cruelty and beauty of circus life while offering a heartfelt tale of love and redemption. It is often banned or challenged for its raw depiction of animal cruelty, sexual situations and emotional abuse.