Elephant Run is a historical fiction adventure story by Roland Smith. The protagonist, 14-year-old Nick Freestone lives with his mom in London during World War II, but due to the frequent bombings, he is sent to stay with his father in Burma. Nick's father owns a teak plantation where much of the labor is done by elephants. In the nearby village, many of the citizens work as mahouts, or people who drive the elephants. This includes Nang, one of the plantation's most trusted employees, and his son Indaw and daughter Mya, who is about Nick's age.
Unfortunately, the Japanese arrive in Burma at the same time as Nick. Nick's father is taken captive, Nang is killed, and Nick, along with Mya, is forced to work as a servant to the Japanese now occupying his father's house. When Nick receives word that his father is alive, his goal becomes rescuing his father. He receives guidance from Hilltop, an ancient Buddhist monk, who wants to follow Mr. Freestone's desire to get Nick and Mya out of Burma to a safer place. Mya is anxious to join Nick's dangerous quest, as she wants to rescue her brother, who is also being held prisoner. After escaping from the house, Hilltop leads Nick and Mya on a dangerous journey to attempt the rescue.
Elephant Run was a very exciting book to read. The wartime setting provides constant action and danger to the characters. The characters are presented realistically, as the Japanese soldiers are much more than evil caricatures. They range from the ambitious, but dangerous young officer Moto to Sgt. Sonji, who was more soft spoken and appreciated haiku and gardening.
Additionally, the author did a great job establishing the setting in the jungles of Burma during WWII. It was very interesting to learn about the mahouts and the conflicted loyalties of the local people, as they yearned for independence from England, but were wary of what the Japanese were bringing to their land.
Elephant Run was a highly enjoyable book to read, and I am looking forward to checking out more books by Roland Smith.
Rating: *****
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