The White Bone
336
Novel • Fiction
African Savannah • Timeless
1998
Adult
18+ years
The White Bone by Barbara Gowdy follows the journey of Mud, an orphaned young female elephant adopted by the She-S family. Mud, who can see visions, and her best friend Date Bed, a "Mind Talker," navigate a matriarchal society devastated by drought and poachers. The elephants quest for the "Safe Place," guided by the mysterious White Bone, struggling against despair and the possible mythical nature of their goal. The book addresses violence and loss related to poaching.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Emotional
Dark
Adventurous
3,912 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Barbara Gowdy's The White Bone offers a unique narrative through the perspective of elephants, showcasing her imaginative storytelling. While praised for its inventive plot and emotional depth, some found the animal viewpoint challenging and the story bleak. Overall, it's an ambitious work that resonates emotionally, though not universally appealing.
Readers who relish evocative storytelling, animal perspectives, and profound themes, akin to Watership Down by Richard Adams, will find The White Bone by Barbara Gowdy captivating. It's ideal for those who appreciate intricate narratives and the exploration of survival, community, and empathy, much like in Life of Pi by Yann Martel.
3,912 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The White Bone is used in some animal studies courses because of its portrayal of elephant behavior and experiences.
Barbara Gowdy's nuanced anthropomorphic portrayal of elephants in The White Bone challenges readers' perceptions of animals and their emotional complexities.
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The book was nominated for the Giller Prize in 1998, recognizing its contribution to Canadian literature.
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336
Novel • Fiction
African Savannah • Timeless
1998
Adult
18+ years
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