Jumbo: The Greatest Elephant in the World
- Paul Chambers -
Born in Africa in 1863, Jumbo was orphaned by ivory-hunters, "rescued" and taken
to France. Mistaken for a runt, he was sold to London Zoo, where he became the favourite
of the British populace, from Queen Victoria to the young Winston Churchill - until,
talent-spotted by the American circus-owner P. T. Barnum, and despite public outcry
and Royal protestations, he was taken across the Atlantic to New York. There he conquered
public hearts and became a superstar until he met with a tragic end involving a railway
line and a fast - for 1885 - train....
‘Chambers delivers a thrilling meticulously researched biography... a delight for
elephant fans, circus-goers, and zoo-goers of all ages; highly recommended.’ Library
Journal (starred review)
‘Clear-eyed, carefully researched, and crisply written.’ Barnes and Noble Review
Magazine
‘Touching and memorable… this gentle, well-wrought book takes readers to thrilling
places.’ The Washington Times
