Elephantoms: Tracking the Elephant

There is so much APPRECIATION in this book! The interweaving of anecdotes, scientific citations and other types of material comes out in perfect balance, and although there are a few passages about the diminishing numbers of elephants and their cloudy future prospects, the overall tone is positive, especially the last 2-3 pages which are magical. HIGHLY recommend, for anyone over about the age of 12 who loves elephants.

I have had this book awhile, and have read, and reread it often. I know a lot about elephants through years of reading. There has not yet been a book written yet on elephants that is of such high literary quality as this one, in addition to providing us with many facts, and also a descriptive narrative of his journey. In some spots, it is almost poetry. How lucky the author was able to experience firsthand what he writes about. The best part was the end, when the whale, down in the ocean (in a part whales seldom, if ever, frequent) meets up with the elephant standing above, and they both trumpet their greetings, or some kind of communication. It remains for me one of the most special animal encounters of which I have ever heard. I bought this book for a friend also because I was so moved by it. Great work here---R-E-A-L-L-Y Great work!

ELEPHANTOMS is biologist Lyall Watson's homage to one of the most significant influences in his life: the African elephant. The book is an inspiring compilation of elephant lore and scientific insights, served up in vintage Watson style. One of the most attractive qualities of Watson's work is his willingness to honor the world's great mysteries, such as the nature of consciousness and its role in the world. What is real and what is illusion? Does the mind participate in generating what we call facts? In his elephant encounters, this question recurs again and again. Watson faces these mysteries as few scientists are willing to do. The result is an enchanting display of erudition and intition, which recall's Aristotle's observation that wonder is the beginning of wisdom. Watson vividly describes the appalling stupidity and cruelty we humans have displayed toward one of the planet's most majestic creatures. Thus ELEPHANTOMS evokes in the reader a range of emotions, from ecstasy to rage. ELEPHANTOMS meets my requirements as a reader. It educates, inspires, and challenges. It is anchored in science and spirit, head and heart. Thank you, Lyall Watson.-- Larry Dossey, MDAuthor: HEALING WORDS, REINVENTING MEDICINE, and HEALING BEYOND THE BODY

Mr. Watson is a delightful writer and his stories about his childhood summer experiences camping with other children on the Cape beach makes me wish for similar experiences for today's children. What a great way to learn independence and cooperation. And his lifetime experiences and education have him cross paths with many elephants, to our great delight. He makes them understandable, approachable, peaceful, and oh so intelligent. I am going to read more by Lyall Watson.

I started this book thinking it was not what I’d imagined. I was right! Turns out it was much more. The author has a great heart and hope for the survival of our most outrageous favorite animal: the elephant. Very information and very, very readable.

Not quite what I had in mind, but still and interesting read. I particularly loved the biological and evolutionary bits. The writing style was smooth and steady.

I loved this book. I loved the scientific analysis and the sentimental accounts from the author's early experiences. I particularly loved the image presented at the end of the book - wonderful to think of the greater connection between the great creatures on the planet. I think animals aren't given enough credit in their ability to "think", and this book presents information that supports that idea.

I like elephants and found this work of non-fiction fascinating. If you've been 'up close', i.e. with no zoo bars between you and the elephant you will find the story believable and thrilling. If you haven't.....you should do so while you can.

interesting

If you are somebody how can not imagine mystery and unexplainable in daily life, then you might not enjoy this book. This pearl of a book will take you to the realm of mystery, imagination and wonder. It's about elephants, but also about so so much more. Enjoy!

My favourite book ever!

Excellent book. Thought provoking and sad but beautiful. Having been to Addo and seen the elephants, it gained even more significance for me.

One of the most magnificent books ever written. If you have a connection and fascination with Elephants then this is a must read that will enchant you ever the more with these remarkable wize beings.