Everyone loved this book in our book club because of the way the author seamlessly switched from present day to past events, great descriptions that you could easily picture in your mind, and its unusual subject matter. We all felt for the character, Jacob, who was now living out his last days in a nursing home, and we were enthralled with his past. None of us knew much about the American circus, despite the fact we live in a town that is called "the cradle of the American circus," where Bailey lived (from Barnum & Bailey), and our town's symbol is an elephant. We loved Rosie the elephant in this story, and felt for the animals as much as the people. This book led to a good discussion about nursing homes, love, and loyalty, to name a few topics. Great, easy read!

This book was not what we expected at all. The author is an adoptee who reunites with her birth parents. She feels she has no identity and spends years searching for answers.
The beginning of the book was interesting, it tells the story of both birth parents. She describes characters well, parts are humorous, but she is not a happy person.
The middle of the book explains her genealogical searches. She goes into too much information, that may be of interest to her--but not to most readers.
The book in general left more questions for everyone, she lets you in her life--yet doesn't really want you to know everything.
I found the author to be annoying, and not necessarily your "typical adoptee." One person in our group, who is also an adoptee, agreed that she was not representing any of her feelings/thoughts. She is angry, resentful, unhappy, and self-absorbed.
This book can lead to good discussions on the adoption topic, but not a well-liked book in our group!

Some members may not find this topic appealing, so beware. The author takes a look at the history of scientific study of cadavers. She approaches the subject with humor which makes this book readable and interesting. You will certainly learn new things, some you may not want to know! It can lead to topics concerning; death, funerals, ethics, life-after-death, religion, and others. Good discussions, not a "fine piece of literature," but good.

In the early 1960's 14,000 children were airlifted out of Cuba, alone and afraid. Imagine being a small child leaving your parents, schoolmates, and the only country you've ever known behind and being put on a plane. The author, Carlos Eire, and his brother, never saw their father again. The author lived in a foster home and orphanage,struggled to survive, and decades later writes this amazing story. His memories and descriptions of Cuba are enlightening and fascinating. His writing is poetic and holds the reader's interest. I learned a lot from this book and it led to a great group discussion.