A Journey of Heart and Wonder: A Review of West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
Sometimes, a book captures your heart simply through its premise—two giraffes journeying across Depression-era America is undeniably intriguing, isn’t it? When I stumbled upon West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge, I was instantly drawn in, both by the vivid cover and the promise of a fantastical yet true tale. As I flipped through the pages, I found myself immersed in a world that stitched together nostalgia, adventure, and the enduring bond between humans and animals.
Set against the backdrop of 1938, Rutledge weaves a narrative rich in historical context while introducing us to Woodrow Wilson Nickel—Woody—a Dust Bowl orphan embarking on an unlikely escapade. The tale begins with Woody at 105 years old, reflecting on the indelible journey that defined his life. The framing device brings a poignant sense of urgency as Woody navigates through memory, showing us that our stories are as vital as the moments themselves.
What I cherished most about this novel is its exploration of hope amid despair. The Great Depression looms large, and yet the story finds beauty in nature and the kindness of strangers. Rutledge’s portrayal of the young Woody, with his raw determination, is layered with vulnerability and resilience. As he embarks on a 12-day road trip to deliver the giraffes to the San Diego Zoo—having chased after a dream that is as whimsical as it is desperate—I couldn’t help but root for him. His encounters with colorful characters, from a crusty old man to a secretive photographer, painted a vibrant canvas of human connection.
Rutledge’s writing has a lyrical quality, one that sweeps you along like the giraffes themselves, with their long necks reaching for the clouds. The dialogue sparkles with authenticity, and the descriptions—oh, the descriptions! They breathe life into the landscapes Woody traverses. “Life is life no matter who or what is living it,” one character quips, and I found this resonant philosophy threading through the pages. The whimsical and sometimes harrowing obstacles faced by Woody and his fellow companions kept me on the edge of my seat, each page a new adventure.
While some reviews suggest a slow start, I found that the pacing allows for a rich buildup of emotion and character development. The journey is not just about delivering giraffes; it’s about introspection and finding family in unexpected places. As one reviewer aptly noted, it’s a “heartwarming, heart-breaking, and grand adventure.”
If you’re an animal lover, a historical fiction enthusiast, or simply someone looking to experience a narrative that beautifully intertwines human emotions with nature’s wonders, West with Giraffes is tailor-made for you. This enchanting book left me with a deeper appreciation for storytelling and its power to connect us across generations.
In closing, my own journey through this book has sparked a yearning to explore the connections we share, much like Woody’s with the giraffes. Perhaps it’s a reminder that, in every story of plight and perseverance, we find the seeds of hope. If ever there was a tale made for our times, West with Giraffes is it—a heartfelt journey that traverses not just miles but the very cosmos of human experience.
You can find West with Giraffes: A Novel here >>
