We Bought A Zoo – Benjamin Mee
Publisher: Weintsein BooksPublished: September 9, 2008Pages: 261Received: borrowed audiobook from libraryBuy Book: Amazon | Book DepositoryBuy Movie: Amazon
In the tradition of "Marley & Me" comes an unforgettable memoir about the mysteries of the animal kingdom, the power of family, and the triumph of hope over tragedy in this chronicle of the Mee family's purchase of the Dartmoor Wildlife Park, a dilapidated zoo in the English countryside. (Goodreads)
I listened to the audiobook version and
found that I did not pay as much attention as I would have liked to
due to the narrator and perhaps the way the story was written.
However, I do know that the book is much different than the movie
portrays, especially when it comes to dealing with his wife's
illness, their finances, etc. I really wanted to love this book, I mean they bought a zoo, dealt with emotional issues and had to deal with all of the animals. I thought it would have a lot more emotion to it.
I found the parts of the books that I
was most interested in were the anecdotes with the animals and a
little about the change in his wife's health. I think that I was
expecting the story to be a lot more about the zoo and animals than
about bills and such. It was touching for him to share the story of
his wife's illness, the changes in their family dynamic, and the
challenges along the way - but I think I was expecting it to be written differently, perhaps it was too journalistic/factual? I think I was just expecting something
different than what I got.
Honestly, I wonder if I had read the
book instead of listening the audio version, I might have enjoyed it
more. I did really enjoy the movie, which is unusual for me...
normally I love the book more.
“You know, sometimes all you need is twenty seconds of insane courage. Just literally twenty seconds of just embarrassing bravery. And I promise you, something great will come of it.”
If you've read the book, seen the movie or both, I would love to read your comments.
Find other bloggers reviews here:
I adore the film! Cameron Crowe is one of my top 3 favorite directors (along with Joss Whedon and Danny Boyle)!
ReplyDeleteI loved the movie!
DeleteI absolutely loved the film! I thought it was fantastic! However, I have yet to pick up the book. I work part time at a small bookstore and I've picked it up countless times, but always end up setting it back down. When I've skimmed the pages it just doesn't seem like it will leave me with the same feeling that the movie did.
ReplyDeleteWell I hope you enjoy the book if you get the chance to read it.
Delete