Water for Elephants explores the little known circus life of early 20th century America. Weaving in and out of past and present, the author, Sarah Gruen, explores the tumultuous and off-beat life of Jacob Jankowski.

Through a series of unfortunate events, Jacob Jankowski finds himself on a train belonging to the "Benzini Brothers' Most Spectacular Show on Earth." Just shy of a veterinary degree, Jacob is put in charge of caring for the circus menagerie. From the very beginning he makes friends and enemies that will alter the course of his life.

When the show acquires a stubborn elephant by the name of Rosy, Jacob is the only one who can control her. To make his life even more difficult, he falls in love with the beautiful Marlena, a married woman. As Jacob falls deeper in love with Marlena, they have to make a decision that will alter their lives forever.

Love, lust, compassion, murder and camaraderie — Water for Elephants will remain in your hands from start to finish. This is the ideal summer book. Rain or shine, you won't be able to put it down.

Kaeleigh Stengle is going to be a junior at St. Michael's High School. Contact her at kaeleighstengle@earthlink.net.