Description
Elephant
Book Summary
A modern, tender, and surprising fable that combines social realism, adventure, and a critique of commercial exploitation. When Schoch, a homeless man in Zurich, finds a tiny pink elephant next to his bench, his life takes an unexpected turn. What seems like a drunken hallucination becomes the start of a fast-paced story of friendship and resistance. Together with a street veterinarian and an elephant whisperer, Schoch must protect Sabu—a unique creature born from a failed genetic experiment—from the powerful figures who want to exploit him as a global phenomenon.
What is it about?
Schoch, a homeless man in Zurich, wakes up from a bender to find a small, bright pink, living elephant staring right at him. He initially thinks it is an alcoholic delirium, but the creature, whom he names Sabu, has no intention of leaving. Following this encounter, Schoch's life is transformed. Along with Valerie, a veterinarian specializing in street animals, and Kaung, a mysterious elephant whisperer, he embarks on an investigation to discover Sabu's origin. Their search leads them to Dr. Roux, an unscrupulous scientist who, in partnership with the director of the Pellegrini Circus, designed a genetic engineering program to create Sabu as a media attraction and a lucrative business. Now, Roux and his associates will do everything in their power to recover the animal, triggering a chase that will test the limits of friendship and loyalty.
Main Themes
- Unexpected friendship and bonds between marginalized people and animals.
- A critique of the commercial exploitation of science and genetic engineering.
- Social realism and the lives of homeless people in a big city.
- Scientific ethics and the limits of experimentation for profit.
- Resistance against corporate power and the fight for freedom.
Who is it recommended for?
For readers who enjoy novels with a touch of magical realism, contemporary fables, and socially conscious adventures. It is ideal for those looking for an emotional and entertaining story that, under a fantastic premise, addresses themes such as friendship, marginalization, and a critique of ruthless capitalism. It also appeals to fans of current European narrative featuring peculiar characters and well-constructed plots.
What this book offers
- An original and moving story that combines tenderness, humor, and narrative tension.
- A reflection on ethics in science and the value of the authentic versus the artificial.
- Endearing and complex characters that invite empathy and social reflection.
- A subtle yet sharp critique of the media circus and the commodification of the extraordinary.
- An agile and captivating read that maintains interest from beginning to end.
Technical Data
- Author: Suter, Martin
- Publisher: Hoja de Lata Editorial
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY FICTION
- Collection: SENSIBLES A LAS LETRAS
- Binding: Paperback
- Publication Date: September 2019
- Number of pages: 384
- Weight: 570 g
Editorial Review
A novel that masterfully balances the most endearing fantasy with a lucid and current social critique. Martin Suter constructs a plot that hooks you from the first page, supported by memorable characters and an impeccable narrative pace. Elephant does not just entertain; it invites us to reflect on power, science, and the true nature of friendship. A recommended read for those looking for a different story with heart and wit.