Chapter Book · 2008

The Elephant's Journey

Written by José Saramago

An elephant's epic journey from Lisbon to Vienna unfolds.

3.7 Goodreads · 21,713 ratings

197 pages

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Solomon, an elephant in Lisbon, is gifted to a Hapsburg archduke in Vienna. His journey on foot spans dusty plains, seas, and snowy Alps. Will he reach his destination? Based on true events, this tale blends fact and fantasy, promising adventure and wonder.

From the publisher

For two years Solomon the elephant has lived in Lisbon. Now King Dom João III wishes to make him a wedding gift for a Hapsburg archduke in Vienna. The only way for Solomon to get to his new home is to walk. So begins a journey that will take the stalwart elephant across the dusty plains of Castile, over the sea to Genoa and up to northern Italy where, like Hannibal’s elephants before him, he must cross the snowy Alps. Based on a true story, Saramago’s tale is an enchanting mix of fact, fable and fantasy.

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