Based on a true story, this is a stunning World War II novel for fans of Natasha Lester, Heather Morris, Kate Furnivall and Mandy Robotham.
In October 1940, twenty-year-old zookeeper Hettie Quin meets Violet, a three-year-old elephant arriving at the Belfast docks from Ceylon. In mourning for the recent loss of her sister and the abandonment of her father, Hettie finds solace in her relationship with Violet and her fellow zookeepers. With the men away fighting, she is made Belfast Zoo’s first ever female zookeeper. She is put in charge of Violet and they soon form a special bond. With Violet at her side, Hettie can almost escape the grim reality of her life.
But then, in April 1941, Belfast is attacked. One evening, over five hours, 674 bombs are dropped and almost a thousand civilians are killed. As the bombs rain down on the city, Hetti must fight to save the baby elephant in her charge. She must gather all her courage to protect those she loves the most. Can she save Violet – and get through unscathed herself?
This vivid and moving story of a young woman zookeeper and the elephant she’s compelled to protect through the German blitz of Belfast speaks to not only the tragedy of the times, but also to the ongoing sectarian tensions that still exist in Northern Ireland today.
Inspired by the life of Denise Austin, author S. Kirk Walsh deftly renders the changing relationship between Hettie and her young charge, and their growing dependence on each other for survival and solace.
The Zookeeper of Belfast really is a deeply moving, beautifully written read. Highly original, it was refreshing to read a great World War II historical that was set somewhere a little different, and with such a unique premise.
I loved Hettie and absolutely adored her relationship with Violet. Afterwards, I spent time researching the real-life story behind the book. As an animal lover (I don’t eat them, and I do rescue work) I’d never considered the impact of war on animals in a zoo. A new area of heartbreak to ponder.
However, as heartbreaking as this story is at times, it is ultimately hopeful and inspiring – uplifting. It is a complicated portrait of love, loss, grief, and resilience, that sweeps you from beginning to end.
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