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Elephant Whisperer
The Elephants of Thula Thula
Françoise Malby-Anthony's The Elephants of Thula Thula is the story about an extraordinary herd of elephants and the woman dedicated to keeping them safe.
‘Somehow, the elephants got into my soul, and it became my life’s work to see them safe and happy. There was no giving up on that vision, no matter how hard the road was at times.’
Françoise Malby-Anthony is the owner of a game reserve in South Africa with a remarkable family of elephants whose adventures have touched hearts around the world. The herd’s feisty matriarch Frankie knows who’s in charge at Thula Thula, and it’s not Francoise. But when Frankie becomes ill, and the authorities threaten to remove or cull some of the herd if the reserve doesn’t expand, Françoise is in a race against time to save her beloved elephants . . .
The joys and challenges of a life dedicated to conservation are vividly described in The Elephants of Thula Thula . The search is on to get a girlfriend for orphaned rhino Thabo – and then, as his behaviour becomes increasingly boisterous, a big brother to teach him manners. Françoise realizes a dream with the arrival of Savannah the cheetah – an endangered species not seen in the area since the 1940s – and finds herself rescuing meerkats kept as pets. But will Thula Thula survive the pandemic, an invasion from poachers and the threat from a mining company wanting access to its land?
As Françoise faces her toughest years yet, she realizes once again that with their wisdom, resilience and communal bonds, the elephants have much to teach us.
‘Somehow, the elephants got into my soul, and it became my life’s work to see them safe and happy. There was no giving up on that vision, no matter how hard the road was at times.’
Françoise Malby-Anthony is the owner of a game reserve in South Africa with a remarkable family of elephants whose adventures have touched hearts around the world. The herd’s feisty matriarch Frankie knows who’s in charge at Thula Thula, and it’s not Francoise. But when Frankie becomes ill, and the authorities threaten to remove or cull some of the herd if the reserve doesn’t expand, Françoise is in a race against time to save her beloved elephants . . .
The joys and challenges of a life dedicated to conservation are vividly described in The Elephants of Thula Thula . The search is on to get a girlfriend for orphaned rhino Thabo – and then, as his behaviour becomes increasingly boisterous, a big brother to teach him manners. Françoise realizes a dream with the arrival of Savannah the cheetah – an endangered species not seen in the area since the 1940s – and finds herself rescuing meerkats kept as pets. But will Thula Thula survive the pandemic, an invasion from poachers and the threat from a mining company wanting access to its land?
As Françoise faces her toughest years yet, she realizes once again that with their wisdom, resilience and communal bonds, the elephants have much to teach us.
310 pages, Paperback
First published August 30, 2022
144 people are currently reading
3652 people want to read
About the author
Françoise Malby-Anthony
5 books127 followersFrançoise Malby-Anthony was born in the south of France, brought up in Paris, and has lived in South Africa since 1987. She founded the Thula Thula game reserve in 1998 with her late husband, the renowned conservationist and bestselling author Lawrence Anthony. When Lawrence died in 2012, Françoise took over the running of the reserve and is equally passionate about conservation. She was the driving force behind setting up a wildlife rehabilitation centre at the reserve to care for orphaned animals. Her first book, An Elephant in My Kitchen, was an international bestseller.
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May 3, 2023
This book continues the Thula Thula story from ‘The Elephant Whisperer’ and ‘An Elephant in my Kitchen’. It has new experiences over the following period from the last book, while referring briefly to past events. This book is as beautiful as the previous two books referred above.
Lawrence Anthony brought a herd of elephants regarded as problematic and established Thula Thula (Thula means quiet in Zulu). He died in 2012, and his ashes were scattered near the Mkhulu dam he built. Francoise Malby Anthony took over, continuing & expanding on his work & legacy. Francoise knew very little of the ways of the wild, and recounts how at one time she got off with a friend near some rhinos, which is an especially dangerous thing to do. She picked up the skills by observing and helping Lawrence. The Thula Thula website and news articles describe how the elephants Lawrence saved came over to pay their respects at their house for 3 years in a row on the same date. Elephants are such remarkable creatures – sensitive, intelligent, social and intuitive!
The narration picks up on the period just before the pandemic. The matriarch is now Frankie, who has taken over from the aging Nana. The past books describe Nana’s maturity in leading the herd. While the elephants provide Thula Thula its identity, this book is also about the other animals who have made Thula Thula their home – rhinos (Thabo, Ntombi, Sissi and later additions Mona & Rambo), cheetah (Savannah), hippos (Jo), leopards, giraffes, mercats, hyenas, crocodiles, and others. Each of the animals have their personalities, much like us humans, and the rangers know it well over time. ‘An Elephant in my Kitchen’ covers the dangers due to poaching in detail, including the death of the rhinos in the orphanage as part of Thula Thula. Poaching casts its shadow in this book as well though an attack was foiled. As a result, rhinos at Thula Thula are dehorned.
Francoise was at an ayurvedic resort in Kerala in 2020 when she reads first about the Coronavirus. She mentions that she visits India quite frequently and loves the culture & grand temples among other things. She observes how the space for elephants is shrinking and Indian Elephants are also struggling in less-than-ideal conditions. That is true and I just wish we create space for them and limit elephants in captivity; they deserve to be free as much as we do. The pandemic strikes and strains Thula Thula’s finances. In desperation, they launch an adoption scheme where contributors are sent photos and other material. This proves to be a success. Later, as restrictions were lifted, local South African guests start coming back first. There are further problems though with the space available, a plan to mine for coal in the area, local unrest and others.
The books revisits and describes new experiences for many of the animals introduced in previous books; such as with rhinos – Thabo & Ntombi, matriarch Frankie (Lawrence close escape once), Numzane elephant who got aggressive and had to be put down. There are heart-warming experiences with the animals sprinkled through the book – and they make you smile as well as cry – encounter of Shaka, the elephant & Thabo, the rhino; death of young rhino Lisa; death of Frankie and funeral march the other elephants conduct in homage; Marula taking over as the new matriarch; introduction of a cheetah (Savannah), movement of a few male giraffes; contraception for the elephants to limit expansion due to space restrictions; the contest between Thabo and new rhino Rambo on who will court the ladies. There is a touch of speciesism in the book, as some categories of animals have no names and descriptions of individuality (some are simply food for cheetahs). There are complex issues referred such as the impact elephants have on ecosystems – Kruger culled many elephants many years back in a controversial move. While opinions are still divided, creating good pathways, and living spaces is regarded as more critical. Elephants have the remarkable ability to covert bushes to grasslands, and can disperse seeds even as far as 65 kms away.
Francoise mentions that there is never a dull moment with the elephants at Thula Thula. They are remarkable animals and can even console and support others, at times even humans. Animals can share our feelings and are good companions when we are troubled and stressed. There is no dull moment in this lovely & fascinating book as well. It is a tribute to the wonderful place Lawrence Anthony set up & nurtured, Francoise’s strength in continuing his legacy and the amazing life of animals, especially the elephants.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Roshina Ratnam and it was excellent, bringing alive the environment of Thula Thula.
A much-recommended book!
Lawrence Anthony brought a herd of elephants regarded as problematic and established Thula Thula (Thula means quiet in Zulu). He died in 2012, and his ashes were scattered near the Mkhulu dam he built. Francoise Malby Anthony took over, continuing & expanding on his work & legacy. Francoise knew very little of the ways of the wild, and recounts how at one time she got off with a friend near some rhinos, which is an especially dangerous thing to do. She picked up the skills by observing and helping Lawrence. The Thula Thula website and news articles describe how the elephants Lawrence saved came over to pay their respects at their house for 3 years in a row on the same date. Elephants are such remarkable creatures – sensitive, intelligent, social and intuitive!
The narration picks up on the period just before the pandemic. The matriarch is now Frankie, who has taken over from the aging Nana. The past books describe Nana’s maturity in leading the herd. While the elephants provide Thula Thula its identity, this book is also about the other animals who have made Thula Thula their home – rhinos (Thabo, Ntombi, Sissi and later additions Mona & Rambo), cheetah (Savannah), hippos (Jo), leopards, giraffes, mercats, hyenas, crocodiles, and others. Each of the animals have their personalities, much like us humans, and the rangers know it well over time. ‘An Elephant in my Kitchen’ covers the dangers due to poaching in detail, including the death of the rhinos in the orphanage as part of Thula Thula. Poaching casts its shadow in this book as well though an attack was foiled. As a result, rhinos at Thula Thula are dehorned.
Francoise was at an ayurvedic resort in Kerala in 2020 when she reads first about the Coronavirus. She mentions that she visits India quite frequently and loves the culture & grand temples among other things. She observes how the space for elephants is shrinking and Indian Elephants are also struggling in less-than-ideal conditions. That is true and I just wish we create space for them and limit elephants in captivity; they deserve to be free as much as we do. The pandemic strikes and strains Thula Thula’s finances. In desperation, they launch an adoption scheme where contributors are sent photos and other material. This proves to be a success. Later, as restrictions were lifted, local South African guests start coming back first. There are further problems though with the space available, a plan to mine for coal in the area, local unrest and others.
The books revisits and describes new experiences for many of the animals introduced in previous books; such as with rhinos – Thabo & Ntombi, matriarch Frankie (Lawrence close escape once), Numzane elephant who got aggressive and had to be put down. There are heart-warming experiences with the animals sprinkled through the book – and they make you smile as well as cry – encounter of Shaka, the elephant & Thabo, the rhino; death of young rhino Lisa; death of Frankie and funeral march the other elephants conduct in homage; Marula taking over as the new matriarch; introduction of a cheetah (Savannah), movement of a few male giraffes; contraception for the elephants to limit expansion due to space restrictions; the contest between Thabo and new rhino Rambo on who will court the ladies. There is a touch of speciesism in the book, as some categories of animals have no names and descriptions of individuality (some are simply food for cheetahs). There are complex issues referred such as the impact elephants have on ecosystems – Kruger culled many elephants many years back in a controversial move. While opinions are still divided, creating good pathways, and living spaces is regarded as more critical. Elephants have the remarkable ability to covert bushes to grasslands, and can disperse seeds even as far as 65 kms away.
Francoise mentions that there is never a dull moment with the elephants at Thula Thula. They are remarkable animals and can even console and support others, at times even humans. Animals can share our feelings and are good companions when we are troubled and stressed. There is no dull moment in this lovely & fascinating book as well. It is a tribute to the wonderful place Lawrence Anthony set up & nurtured, Francoise’s strength in continuing his legacy and the amazing life of animals, especially the elephants.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Roshina Ratnam and it was excellent, bringing alive the environment of Thula Thula.
A much-recommended book!
March 1, 2024
Heartwarming. Inspiring. Moving. Engrossing eye-opener.
There are so many different words that can describe this story, but those above came to mind automatically.
How can we not be mesmerized by a person’s dedication to such a beautiful animal? Especially when so many are in danger.
The author reminds us that elephants have a great spirit, and as a conservationist, she knows how important it is for us to save them.
The author’s dedication to creating a rescue center in the wilds of Africa, for injured elephants, orphaned rhinos and hippos tugs at our heartstrings. We want to know that they will be safe and never harmed again.
“My Thula Thula journey had been driven by love. First, I fell in love with my husband (who has since passed away), then the land, and then the elephants. Somehow, the elephants got into my soul.”
The author shares the many challenges of running such a center. But she also gives readers an inside glimpse into the various personalities of the animals that grace the pages. Which adds to her own experience of why she feels compelled to do so.
She also takes us through Covid – looting – poaching – loss of tourism to help pay the extensive bills, as well as the various permits expected in running a game preserve.
This story was educational as much as it was inspiring. For anyone interested in conservation of our wildlife, nature and environment, this book opens the doors to understanding.
The author shares...
“I hope that my story and the story of the elephants…has made you fall just a little in love with them too, and understand the need to protect them. To educate people about conservation and to bring awareness about the vanishing wilderness with the urgent necessity to create more space for all our precious wildlife here in Africa, and in the rest of the world. To take better care of our planet and all of its inhabitants. We must all take on this task with passion and determination, so that future generations will be able to share one of the most profound and beautiful experiences imaginable – to see an elephant, a rhino, a cheetah or a lion roaming free in their natural habitat.”
And yes, as readers, I believe we feel the love, too. Especially when the pictures included add to the beautiful story before us.
4.5 stars rounded up.
There are so many different words that can describe this story, but those above came to mind automatically.
How can we not be mesmerized by a person’s dedication to such a beautiful animal? Especially when so many are in danger.
The author reminds us that elephants have a great spirit, and as a conservationist, she knows how important it is for us to save them.
The author’s dedication to creating a rescue center in the wilds of Africa, for injured elephants, orphaned rhinos and hippos tugs at our heartstrings. We want to know that they will be safe and never harmed again.
“My Thula Thula journey had been driven by love. First, I fell in love with my husband (who has since passed away), then the land, and then the elephants. Somehow, the elephants got into my soul.”
The author shares the many challenges of running such a center. But she also gives readers an inside glimpse into the various personalities of the animals that grace the pages. Which adds to her own experience of why she feels compelled to do so.
She also takes us through Covid – looting – poaching – loss of tourism to help pay the extensive bills, as well as the various permits expected in running a game preserve.
This story was educational as much as it was inspiring. For anyone interested in conservation of our wildlife, nature and environment, this book opens the doors to understanding.
The author shares...
“I hope that my story and the story of the elephants…has made you fall just a little in love with them too, and understand the need to protect them. To educate people about conservation and to bring awareness about the vanishing wilderness with the urgent necessity to create more space for all our precious wildlife here in Africa, and in the rest of the world. To take better care of our planet and all of its inhabitants. We must all take on this task with passion and determination, so that future generations will be able to share one of the most profound and beautiful experiences imaginable – to see an elephant, a rhino, a cheetah or a lion roaming free in their natural habitat.”
And yes, as readers, I believe we feel the love, too. Especially when the pictures included add to the beautiful story before us.
4.5 stars rounded up.
April 20, 2023
Nothing in my early life had prepared me for the difficult decisions I had to make every day in the bush. I grew up in Paris. I knew my way around the arrondissements and where to get the best pain au chocolat for breakfast. I had no formal training in conservation. Everything I knew, I learnt on the job, from Lawrence or from people around me. (loc. 650)
Did you know that elephants are right or left tusked (loc. 265), the same way that humans are right or left handed? Mind. Blown.
This is Malby Anthony's second book about the Thula Thula game reserve and the animals on it, and I realized midway through that I actually have two of her late husband's books on my to-read list as well. (I very nearly paused to go read those first, but...there were holds at the library, and I'm not that patient.) I suspect that An Elephant in My Kitchen has somewhat more linear storytelling; The Elephants of Thula Thula feels a bit like catching up on the lives of distant relatives—the highlights of who's gotten engaged and who divorced, whose son is out of rehab and doing well, and who was caught in flagrante delicto with the neighbor's wife. Except, of course, in this case it's all animals.
When I think about conservation work, I usually think of preserving landscape to limit human encroachment on wild lands, and it's sad and at times shocking to read about the lengths that have to be taken to not only do that but also to deter poachers. Malby-Anthony describes, for example, dehorning the rhinos every 14 or so months—because otherwise the risk that poachers will kill the rhinos for their horns is too high. (I didn't know that rhino horns grow, or grow back—I guess I tend to think of them as something like elephant tusks, when in fact they're more akin to fingernails.) So while the stories sometimes feel a bit scattered, the close focus on animal rather than human drama makes for engrossing material, and there's a lot to learn. It makes me want to read more about elephants in particular (conveniently, The Elephant Whisperer is one of the books on my list).
Late in the book, Malby-Anthony mentions a letter that she received from a reader of her first book—someone who had dreamed of opening her own wildlife reserve but had, since reading the book, refined her vision to visiting a game reserve. That's close to where I land, too—I'm never going to run a wildlife reserve(!) and might well never visit one, but it's always a pleasure to step through the pages of a memoir into someone else's life for a while.
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.
Did you know that elephants are right or left tusked (loc. 265), the same way that humans are right or left handed? Mind. Blown.
This is Malby Anthony's second book about the Thula Thula game reserve and the animals on it, and I realized midway through that I actually have two of her late husband's books on my to-read list as well. (I very nearly paused to go read those first, but...there were holds at the library, and I'm not that patient.) I suspect that An Elephant in My Kitchen has somewhat more linear storytelling; The Elephants of Thula Thula feels a bit like catching up on the lives of distant relatives—the highlights of who's gotten engaged and who divorced, whose son is out of rehab and doing well, and who was caught in flagrante delicto with the neighbor's wife. Except, of course, in this case it's all animals.
When I think about conservation work, I usually think of preserving landscape to limit human encroachment on wild lands, and it's sad and at times shocking to read about the lengths that have to be taken to not only do that but also to deter poachers. Malby-Anthony describes, for example, dehorning the rhinos every 14 or so months—because otherwise the risk that poachers will kill the rhinos for their horns is too high. (I didn't know that rhino horns grow, or grow back—I guess I tend to think of them as something like elephant tusks, when in fact they're more akin to fingernails.) So while the stories sometimes feel a bit scattered, the close focus on animal rather than human drama makes for engrossing material, and there's a lot to learn. It makes me want to read more about elephants in particular (conveniently, The Elephant Whisperer is one of the books on my list).
Late in the book, Malby-Anthony mentions a letter that she received from a reader of her first book—someone who had dreamed of opening her own wildlife reserve but had, since reading the book, refined her vision to visiting a game reserve. That's close to where I land, too—I'm never going to run a wildlife reserve(!) and might well never visit one, but it's always a pleasure to step through the pages of a memoir into someone else's life for a while.
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.
May 24, 2023
I found THE ELEPHANTS OF THULA THULA by Francoise Malby-Anthony on the Libby app. Check for your local library on the app and read great books for free!📚
This book ripped out my guts and fed them to me, as do usually books about the threat human civilization poses to biodiversity on this planet. Humans have impeded to such a degree on the habitats of large mammal species like Rhinos, Hippos, and Elephants, that sanctuaries like the one operated by the author are fast becoming these species' only means of survival.
This is what you learn when you live with elephants. Compassion. If one of them is in trouble, the whole herd will come to its rescue. I remember a story told by a man who travelled to Botswana. Observing a herd of elephants at the waterhole, he noticed that one had lost two thirds of his trunk. An injury like this would mean death to the elephant. With a shortened trunk, he wouldn’t be able to feed himself, or get water. He watched as other members of the herd pulled water into their trunks and emptied it into the mouth of the wounded elephant. Now isn’t that the way things should be in this world? p132
THE ELEPHANTS OF THULA THULA gives a detailed glimpse into the struggle faced by activists such as Malby-Anthony in protecting large species-- besides the threats to the animals' survival and health, they are constantly battling bureaucratic red tap and swiftly emptying coffers.
This isn't a cheery read, especially if you're an animal lover. But it's a good one, informative, and you might come away as I did feeling at least reinvigored that big mammals have energetic, absolutely determined people like the author fighting for their survival.
In nature, and in life, we all depend on each other. p133
Here is my trigger warning for animal cruelty and animal death.
Rating: 🐘🐘🐘🐘.5 / 5 elephants in the garden
Recommend? Absolutely!
Finished: May 22 2023
Format: Digital, Libby, Screen reader
Read this if you like:
🦛 Big animals
🦏 Books about endangers species
🏞 Natural spaces conservation
🗣 Memoirs
This book ripped out my guts and fed them to me, as do usually books about the threat human civilization poses to biodiversity on this planet. Humans have impeded to such a degree on the habitats of large mammal species like Rhinos, Hippos, and Elephants, that sanctuaries like the one operated by the author are fast becoming these species' only means of survival.
This is what you learn when you live with elephants. Compassion. If one of them is in trouble, the whole herd will come to its rescue. I remember a story told by a man who travelled to Botswana. Observing a herd of elephants at the waterhole, he noticed that one had lost two thirds of his trunk. An injury like this would mean death to the elephant. With a shortened trunk, he wouldn’t be able to feed himself, or get water. He watched as other members of the herd pulled water into their trunks and emptied it into the mouth of the wounded elephant. Now isn’t that the way things should be in this world? p132
THE ELEPHANTS OF THULA THULA gives a detailed glimpse into the struggle faced by activists such as Malby-Anthony in protecting large species-- besides the threats to the animals' survival and health, they are constantly battling bureaucratic red tap and swiftly emptying coffers.
This isn't a cheery read, especially if you're an animal lover. But it's a good one, informative, and you might come away as I did feeling at least reinvigored that big mammals have energetic, absolutely determined people like the author fighting for their survival.
In nature, and in life, we all depend on each other. p133
Here is my trigger warning for animal cruelty and animal death.
Rating: 🐘🐘🐘🐘.5 / 5 elephants in the garden
Recommend? Absolutely!
Finished: May 22 2023
Format: Digital, Libby, Screen reader
Read this if you like:
🦛 Big animals
🦏 Books about endangers species
🏞 Natural spaces conservation
🗣 Memoirs
May 23, 2025
Loved returning to Thula Thula and catching up with all the animals there!
September 26, 2022
The Elephants of Thula Thula by Françoise Malby-Anthony is a rich, detailed account of the hardships experienced while running the Thula Thula game reserve. But despite the seriousness of the subjects highlighted within the pages, such as poaching and the red tapes of acquiring wildlife permits, you will find yourself laughing out loud at the funny antics of the animals in the reserve too (here’s looking at you Thabo!). I found myself giggling on more than one occasion as I read about the personalities of the different animals, and my children delighted in the re-telling of these stories on our way to school in the mornings.
Through Françoise’s vivid recollections of the many events that have happened over her 22 years in the reserve we are given a wonderful glimpse into the day to day life in the reserve. It is the mix of brevity that also makes this such a compelling read, from cellphone stealing monkeys to dehorning the rhinos, from an elephant who can tiptoe past electric fences to relocating giraffes, from a rhino who dislikes noise to trying to increase the park’s size to keep the elephant herd together.
Woven throughout the book is a tale of sheer determination at overcoming the hurdles these past 24 months have thrown at us, from the challenges of lockdown brought on by Covid to the terrible looting experienced within our province last year. It serves as a stark reminder of all that we have faced, and brings respect to those who served in the tourism and hospitality industry during that time who had so many difficulties on top of everything we were facing. Add in the challenges of the different permits required and the obstacles thrown in their way towards wanting to create a bigger reserve for the animals, the acts taken to keep the rhinos safe from poaching, and wanting to help in protecting the future of the animals that are endangered, and you can see how busy this team is in an eye-opening look at everything the team does to protect their reserve and the animals within it.
I found The Elephants of Thula Thula to have a great balance between being educational and inspiring, perfect for those interested in the conservation of our wildlife, nature and environment for the future generation, and hopefully a catalyst to spur us into action to help where we can. I am fortunate in that I visited the Thula Thula game reserve about ten years ago, I loved my time there getting to meet the beautiful elephants we have come to know and I hope to one day take my children back to experience the magic of this reserve too. There’s never a dull moment in the bush!
Through Françoise’s vivid recollections of the many events that have happened over her 22 years in the reserve we are given a wonderful glimpse into the day to day life in the reserve. It is the mix of brevity that also makes this such a compelling read, from cellphone stealing monkeys to dehorning the rhinos, from an elephant who can tiptoe past electric fences to relocating giraffes, from a rhino who dislikes noise to trying to increase the park’s size to keep the elephant herd together.
Woven throughout the book is a tale of sheer determination at overcoming the hurdles these past 24 months have thrown at us, from the challenges of lockdown brought on by Covid to the terrible looting experienced within our province last year. It serves as a stark reminder of all that we have faced, and brings respect to those who served in the tourism and hospitality industry during that time who had so many difficulties on top of everything we were facing. Add in the challenges of the different permits required and the obstacles thrown in their way towards wanting to create a bigger reserve for the animals, the acts taken to keep the rhinos safe from poaching, and wanting to help in protecting the future of the animals that are endangered, and you can see how busy this team is in an eye-opening look at everything the team does to protect their reserve and the animals within it.
I found The Elephants of Thula Thula to have a great balance between being educational and inspiring, perfect for those interested in the conservation of our wildlife, nature and environment for the future generation, and hopefully a catalyst to spur us into action to help where we can. I am fortunate in that I visited the Thula Thula game reserve about ten years ago, I loved my time there getting to meet the beautiful elephants we have come to know and I hope to one day take my children back to experience the magic of this reserve too. There’s never a dull moment in the bush!
March 30, 2024
The remarkable wife of Lawrence Anthony took over the management of Thula Thula after his untimely death, expended the reserve and revived its defunct wildlife rehabilitation centre. She has managed the reserve for over a decade at this time.
She moved from Paris to South Africa three decades ago, learnt from Lawrence’s wisdom and draws on the expertise of the team of rangers, conservationists and vets who are her family. Their loyalty and role in supporting Thula Thula is clearly indicated, which reflects her leadership in assimilating all of that knowledge and experience with a clear focus on the betterment of wildlife in her care.
The book includes their dramatic experiences of the Covid lockdown as well as the political unrest which led to looting right up to the edge of the reserve. It’s agonising at times but thankfully there is good news to celebrate.
This if the second book by Francoise about Thula Thula and a must for anyone who read her first to catch up with. Her broad account allows us some impression of the intensity of effort this entails. Salute!
She moved from Paris to South Africa three decades ago, learnt from Lawrence’s wisdom and draws on the expertise of the team of rangers, conservationists and vets who are her family. Their loyalty and role in supporting Thula Thula is clearly indicated, which reflects her leadership in assimilating all of that knowledge and experience with a clear focus on the betterment of wildlife in her care.
The book includes their dramatic experiences of the Covid lockdown as well as the political unrest which led to looting right up to the edge of the reserve. It’s agonising at times but thankfully there is good news to celebrate.
This if the second book by Francoise about Thula Thula and a must for anyone who read her first to catch up with. Her broad account allows us some impression of the intensity of effort this entails. Salute!
February 12, 2023
I loved the author’s previous memoir, but the writing style was less compelling this time around. It felt more…clerical? And like the story was written in a rush. More talks about repetitive administrative work , less on the ground wildlife experiences.
Regardless, I fully support the author and the strides she has made in expanding Thula Thula. This has been no easy task, and she was never meant to have the burden rest in her shoulders as it does. She is determined and has persevered through so many insurmountable obstacles the past few years.
She is an incredible person, as was the late Lawerence Anthony. People like them give me faith in humanity and faith in the continuation of these magnificent, endangered species.
Regardless, I fully support the author and the strides she has made in expanding Thula Thula. This has been no easy task, and she was never meant to have the burden rest in her shoulders as it does. She is determined and has persevered through so many insurmountable obstacles the past few years.
She is an incredible person, as was the late Lawerence Anthony. People like them give me faith in humanity and faith in the continuation of these magnificent, endangered species.
November 1, 2023
• The other two books really stuck with me so I was excited to catch up on the goings on at Thula Thula and how the elephant herd and the not so wee Thabo were doing.
• Francoise gives a really interesting insight into some of the up and downs (especially the frustrations) of trying to protect and better the lives of the animals they’re responsible for, and somehow manages to do it all with a hopeful optimism.
• There was a little bit of a lack of cohesiveness between the chapters and I sometimes I wanted to skip ahead to continue Frankie’s or Thabo’s stories.
• Francoise gives a really interesting insight into some of the up and downs (especially the frustrations) of trying to protect and better the lives of the animals they’re responsible for, and somehow manages to do it all with a hopeful optimism.
• There was a little bit of a lack of cohesiveness between the chapters and I sometimes I wanted to skip ahead to continue Frankie’s or Thabo’s stories.
July 31, 2024
This author's and her husband's books about their work on game reserves in Africa and about saving the animals have all been a solid 4 stars for me. What a labor of love. I always feel so grateful that there are people like that in world I live in. And I enjoy their stories, their hard work, and their dedication.
These books get me excited about visiting that region. So as always, 4 stars.
These books get me excited about visiting that region. So as always, 4 stars.
June 15, 2023
I really enjoyed this memoir by Francoise Malby-Anthony and her life working with the animals of Thula Thula, especially elephants. Along the way, we also learn about giraffes, rhinos, wildebeests, lions, leopards, and buffalo (the big 5 and the tall one). One of my favorite sections is when she was distraught thinking she was going to have to close down the sanctuary, and then the next day met with nearby preservationists gaining almost 10 hectares of land for these majestic creatures. I want to thank the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for giving me an e-copy of this book, in return for an honest review.
March 17, 2023
This is the third book about the Thula Thula game reserve and the second written by Francoise Malby-Anthony. The author has a great love for South Africa, for animals in the wild and for conservation. This book presents the continuing challenges of running a game reserve, including the loss of visitors and income during the pandemic. This fun book carried me away to Thula Thula for a wonderful visit.
June 26, 2024
Another wonderful book about Thula-Thula, heartwarming, informative, engaging. A place I love "visiting" through armchair travel.
April 3, 2023
Do you like watching animal documentaries? Do you love learning about big game? Do you want to get a better understanding of animals you are not likely to interact with on a personal level regularly? This is the book for you!!
This book was published September of 2022 but later this month it comes out in a audio version! Thanks to @netgalley and @panmacmillan I was able to listen to it before the release date.
I absolutely loved getting lost in the world of Thula Thula. I loved seeing how the big game of the reserve has so much personality and humor. I found myself smiling most of this book and enjoyed the experience! It felt as if I was there watching these beautiful animals myself! It was so interesting how the elephants behavior mimicked human behavior in so many different ways. The way they took care of their young was so similar to how we take care of our young.
My favorite part was when one of the elephants was playing with the blanket. It was so cute and funny. It shows how they also want to just have fun and like to laugh and make others laugh! My overall favorite animal was Tabo the rhino! When Tabo took Mona for a walk after Lisa died warmed and broke my heart. It showed how rhinos also experience loss and are there for each other. Even the elephants morned Franky’s death in their own way and visited where she passed like humans visit a grave site. These animals won over my heart and now I want to visit Thula Thula myself!
Absolutely beautiful listen! Need to add the physical book to my collection! ❤️
Side note: yes I lost one of my air pods! Haha
Once again thank you @netgalley and @panmacmillan for proving me with a advanced audio book copy to listen to and give a honest review!
November 24, 2024
I absolutely adored this story. Gives you so much insight on the Elephants and what goes on behind the scenes. I cried while reading this as I absolutely fell in love with Frankie. Also while learning more about the what, how, and why with what poachers are doing and it breaks my heart. I have learnt so much about how the reserve works and what they do day and night to protect all the animals from poachers.
One day I hope to be able to go to Africa and see these amazing creatures in the wild.
We need to do whatever we can to protect them. Thank you so much to everyone who has worked to protect, educate, and those who help monetarily. I truly hope we never have to say goodbye to yet another species because of what humans are doing to our beautiful planet.
One day I hope to be able to go to Africa and see these amazing creatures in the wild.
We need to do whatever we can to protect them. Thank you so much to everyone who has worked to protect, educate, and those who help monetarily. I truly hope we never have to say goodbye to yet another species because of what humans are doing to our beautiful planet.
July 21, 2024
A must read! The magical lives of elephants have so much to teach us humans. Worldwide matriarchal societies are more peaceful. Elephants deserve a place in this world and help to balance their own environment. This book is beautiful, informative, humorous, and humbling.
October 2, 2024
This is a wonderful story reminiscent of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom and James Herriot’s All Creatures Great and Small. The narrator had the sweetest voice! I praise the author’s compassion for all living things.
April 7, 2023
Zebras are black with white stripes
October 7, 2023
Super, leest heerlijk weg in de Afrikaanse zon. Korte verhalen naast de hoofdlijn maakt het makkelijk het boek op te pakken en weg te leggen
September 5, 2022
Weer een kijkje in het wel en wee van Thula Thula, met ook de heel recente Covid-lockdowns erin beschreven!
June 7, 2024
It's been lovely to read about Thula Thula and the great conservation work that is being done there. I hope to visit before the poachers get the upper hand. Loved, loved, loved learning about the elephants! I never realized how intelligent, sensitive, loyal and intuitive they are. We can learn a lot from them!!
October 22, 2022
Thank you so much Pan Macmillan SA for this #gifted copy.
I first met the wise Nana in 2010 (wow, 12 years ago!) when I read Lawrence Anthony’s The Elephant Whisperer. Nana was the matriarch of a ‘rogue’ herd of elephants about to be ‘put down’ (shot).
In the years that followed Lawrence passed away and Frankie; Nana’s feisty warrior sister, became the matriarch. His wife, Françoise Malby-Anthony was left with a nature reserve, a conservation dream her late husband built a life around, a full set of staff, several orphaned animals and an elephant named after her that didn’t like her very much. An Elephant in My Kitchen
In her second book, The Elephants of Thula Thula, Francoise shares stories of the progress she has made since An Elephant In My Kitchen.
Stories include a troublesome two-ton teenager, the devastating closure of the Thula Thula Rhino Orphanage, the birth of Frankie’s own children, keeping a nature reserve afloat during a pandemic and welcoming of Thula Thula’s first ever cheetah – Savanna (she is gorgeous by the way).
Not all the stories have a happy ending, but each one is filled with Francoise’s endless optimism, hope and lessons to be learned. It is so interesting to read and learn about the immense planning and effort that goes into dehorning our precious rhinos so that poachers do not murder them for their horns (and how the horns are then transported in an armored security vehicle -- definitely a job for Leo Prinsloo!).
Along with the Amakhosi tribal leaders, the local community, guests and friends all over the world, fellow Yogi Francoise works tirelessly and selflessly to conserve the beautiful fauna that was here before us, and will (hopefully) be here long after us.
Links:
Thula Thula Private Game Reserve
South African Conservation Fund
I first met the wise Nana in 2010 (wow, 12 years ago!) when I read Lawrence Anthony’s The Elephant Whisperer. Nana was the matriarch of a ‘rogue’ herd of elephants about to be ‘put down’ (shot).
In the years that followed Lawrence passed away and Frankie; Nana’s feisty warrior sister, became the matriarch. His wife, Françoise Malby-Anthony was left with a nature reserve, a conservation dream her late husband built a life around, a full set of staff, several orphaned animals and an elephant named after her that didn’t like her very much. An Elephant in My Kitchen
In her second book, The Elephants of Thula Thula, Francoise shares stories of the progress she has made since An Elephant In My Kitchen.
Stories include a troublesome two-ton teenager, the devastating closure of the Thula Thula Rhino Orphanage, the birth of Frankie’s own children, keeping a nature reserve afloat during a pandemic and welcoming of Thula Thula’s first ever cheetah – Savanna (she is gorgeous by the way).
Not all the stories have a happy ending, but each one is filled with Francoise’s endless optimism, hope and lessons to be learned. It is so interesting to read and learn about the immense planning and effort that goes into dehorning our precious rhinos so that poachers do not murder them for their horns (and how the horns are then transported in an armored security vehicle -- definitely a job for Leo Prinsloo!).
Along with the Amakhosi tribal leaders, the local community, guests and friends all over the world, fellow Yogi Francoise works tirelessly and selflessly to conserve the beautiful fauna that was here before us, and will (hopefully) be here long after us.
Links:
Thula Thula Private Game Reserve
South African Conservation Fund
December 31, 2022
Nice anecdotes about running a private game reserve, but not very fulfilling on a critical level.
Left me with questions about the set up. It reads like the animals are in a zoo for wealthy European financiers.
It would be good to hear more voices; the guides, the vets, the community who’s communal land is part of the reserve, etc.
Left me with questions about the set up. It reads like the animals are in a zoo for wealthy European financiers.
It would be good to hear more voices; the guides, the vets, the community who’s communal land is part of the reserve, etc.
June 21, 2023
3.5 stars. I found this interesting, but also kind of boring at times and found myself skimming by the last hundred pages. I have not read the author’s other books, so maybe that’s why I felt a bit of a disconnect. All that said, however, if I ever had the opportunity and means to go to Thula Thula or someplace like it, I would.
April 27, 2023
Francoise Malby-Anthony is an established author and the owner of a game reserve in South Africa. Although she’s written previous books about this reserve, The Elephants of Thula-Thula is the first of her books that I’ve read. My thanks go to Net Galley and Macmillan Audio for the review copy; this book is for sale now.
As I begin listening to the audiobook, I am not sure I like it much. After a brief passage about elephants, the author segues into a longer piece about rhinos and by the time she admits that the rhinos are her favorites, I mutter, “No kidding!” There are other passages in which she gushes about the refuge’s well-heeled but generous donors, and I’m beginning to feel as if this is the sort of book that people will buy because the refuge is a good cause, but nobody will actually learn anything or even enjoy it much.
About halfway in, though, I have a change of heart. The second half is much better than the first. She discusses throughout the book the challenges posed to the refuge by the pandemic, and she talks about the measures taken to remain solvent while also keeping her employees whole. There is actually more talk about elephants now. I confess I am jarred by the moment when a favorite animal dies (no spoilers) and she tells us that this is the worst grief of her entire life. She says this not too long after explaining that the reserve’s founder, her husband, has recently died, and so my head snaps up when the tells us that the loss of the animal is the worst. I am chalking it up to hyperbole, but if I were the editor, I’d suggest a rewording.
Nevertheless, there are wonderful anecdotes about the elephants, and of course the rhinos, as well as the addition of a cheetah. She discusses baboons—I’d never fully realized how scary they can be—and I enjoyed hearing about how one goes about moving a giraffe to another location. There’s a lot more about elephants in the second half, and she discusses the threat to the herd when some bureaucrats add up the acreage and decide that there are too many elephants here, and some must be either moved out or “culled” (which means, of course, killed!) The reserve is expanded, but it takes a whole lot of jockeying and maneuvering to carry it off.
Readers that have enjoyed Malby-Anthony’s earlier books, or that have a strong interest in wildlife preserves may enjoy this book greatly, and it is to them that I recommend it.
As I begin listening to the audiobook, I am not sure I like it much. After a brief passage about elephants, the author segues into a longer piece about rhinos and by the time she admits that the rhinos are her favorites, I mutter, “No kidding!” There are other passages in which she gushes about the refuge’s well-heeled but generous donors, and I’m beginning to feel as if this is the sort of book that people will buy because the refuge is a good cause, but nobody will actually learn anything or even enjoy it much.
About halfway in, though, I have a change of heart. The second half is much better than the first. She discusses throughout the book the challenges posed to the refuge by the pandemic, and she talks about the measures taken to remain solvent while also keeping her employees whole. There is actually more talk about elephants now. I confess I am jarred by the moment when a favorite animal dies (no spoilers) and she tells us that this is the worst grief of her entire life. She says this not too long after explaining that the reserve’s founder, her husband, has recently died, and so my head snaps up when the tells us that the loss of the animal is the worst. I am chalking it up to hyperbole, but if I were the editor, I’d suggest a rewording.
Nevertheless, there are wonderful anecdotes about the elephants, and of course the rhinos, as well as the addition of a cheetah. She discusses baboons—I’d never fully realized how scary they can be—and I enjoyed hearing about how one goes about moving a giraffe to another location. There’s a lot more about elephants in the second half, and she discusses the threat to the herd when some bureaucrats add up the acreage and decide that there are too many elephants here, and some must be either moved out or “culled” (which means, of course, killed!) The reserve is expanded, but it takes a whole lot of jockeying and maneuvering to carry it off.
Readers that have enjoyed Malby-Anthony’s earlier books, or that have a strong interest in wildlife preserves may enjoy this book greatly, and it is to them that I recommend it.
Read
March 27, 2023In the vein of Jane Goodall and Dian Fossey, Malby-Anthony is writing about her experiences with preservation of wildlife in Africa, specifically South Africa. The book talks about the problems they have had with government regulations, the ever common poacher problems and security, raising money, and issues brought on by Covid and the lack of travel.
Malby-Anthony has a positive and optimistic outlook on an initiative that is always fighting to stay afloat, combat poachers, and deal with government policies. Malby-Anthony’s love for the animals and desire to ensure the best possible outcomes for all animals is very clear. Her suggestions for considering your own actions and the effect it has on any animal you come into contact with is important on for us all to think about. It brough to mind the camels available to ride in Cairo, or the Dolphin swims in the Caribbean.
The issues of preservation and the need for assistance is a central aspect of this book and an ever-important consideration for our world going forward.
These sorts of books are important for us to read and be aware of what goes on in our world, the very reason I chose to read this one. However, in my opinion this book was a tribute to specific financial contributors to the Private Game Reserve, as well as a self congratulations to all the financial supports and those working on the game reserve who helped the neighbouring communities’ weather Covid. While these aspects are important to the preserve and I appreciate them, it come across as attempts to promote certain contributors.
As for the narration, Roshina Ratnam had a lovely voice and it was a pleasure to listen to her.
Would I recommend this book? YES, it is a book about conservation and the importance of people like Malby-Anthony. However, there would be a warning to ignore the advertising and self promotion aspects. I would also go back and read her last books An Elephant in My Kitchen, and her husband Lawrence Anthony’s book The Elelphant Whisperer. As far as visiting Thula Thula, yes!! I want to go there someday.
Thank you @netgalley and @macmillanaudio for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Malby-Anthony has a positive and optimistic outlook on an initiative that is always fighting to stay afloat, combat poachers, and deal with government policies. Malby-Anthony’s love for the animals and desire to ensure the best possible outcomes for all animals is very clear. Her suggestions for considering your own actions and the effect it has on any animal you come into contact with is important on for us all to think about. It brough to mind the camels available to ride in Cairo, or the Dolphin swims in the Caribbean.
The issues of preservation and the need for assistance is a central aspect of this book and an ever-important consideration for our world going forward.
These sorts of books are important for us to read and be aware of what goes on in our world, the very reason I chose to read this one. However, in my opinion this book was a tribute to specific financial contributors to the Private Game Reserve, as well as a self congratulations to all the financial supports and those working on the game reserve who helped the neighbouring communities’ weather Covid. While these aspects are important to the preserve and I appreciate them, it come across as attempts to promote certain contributors.
As for the narration, Roshina Ratnam had a lovely voice and it was a pleasure to listen to her.
Would I recommend this book? YES, it is a book about conservation and the importance of people like Malby-Anthony. However, there would be a warning to ignore the advertising and self promotion aspects. I would also go back and read her last books An Elephant in My Kitchen, and her husband Lawrence Anthony’s book The Elelphant Whisperer. As far as visiting Thula Thula, yes!! I want to go there someday.
Thank you @netgalley and @macmillanaudio for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 21, 2023
I didn’t realize this was the 3rd book in the Elephant Whisperer series when I requested the audiobook from Netgalley, until after I finished it, so I don’t think you need to have read the first two to enjoy this one.
The Elephants of Thula Thula is the memoirs of Françoise Malby-Anthony’s and her elephants on the game reserve Thula Thula (which means quiet in Zulu) in South Africa. Her story is fascinating and reminded me that there are great people, doing great and amazing things out there. To dedicate your life to saving and protecting wild animals is just remarkable and so inspiring. I learned so much about elephants and their way of life in this book (like how they can be right or left tusked, akin to how humans are right or left handed), and I was given a front row seat to how much work, effort and money is actually required for a wild game reserve to remain open. Some of this book takes place during the pandemic and so the lack of finances coming in when Thula Thula could not remain open to the public for tours place a huge financial strain on them and the welfare of the animals.
I also learned a lot about other animals in this book as Thula Thula is also home to rhinos, giraffes, baboons, hyenas, a cheetah, meerkats and even a hippo! Learning about the ecosystem and the importance these species have on each other was very interesting. Poaching is also a topic covered and not even reserves are safe. Because of this, rhinos are routinely dehorned and the horns are then transported by armoured vehicles to a high security vault.
Overall, I really enjoyed listening to the stories about the animals of Thula Thula and have now added it to my bucket list of places I would love to visit in my future travels.
Thank you to netgalley for the audiobook copy to review. All opinions my own.
The Elephants of Thula Thula is the memoirs of Françoise Malby-Anthony’s and her elephants on the game reserve Thula Thula (which means quiet in Zulu) in South Africa. Her story is fascinating and reminded me that there are great people, doing great and amazing things out there. To dedicate your life to saving and protecting wild animals is just remarkable and so inspiring. I learned so much about elephants and their way of life in this book (like how they can be right or left tusked, akin to how humans are right or left handed), and I was given a front row seat to how much work, effort and money is actually required for a wild game reserve to remain open. Some of this book takes place during the pandemic and so the lack of finances coming in when Thula Thula could not remain open to the public for tours place a huge financial strain on them and the welfare of the animals.
I also learned a lot about other animals in this book as Thula Thula is also home to rhinos, giraffes, baboons, hyenas, a cheetah, meerkats and even a hippo! Learning about the ecosystem and the importance these species have on each other was very interesting. Poaching is also a topic covered and not even reserves are safe. Because of this, rhinos are routinely dehorned and the horns are then transported by armoured vehicles to a high security vault.
Overall, I really enjoyed listening to the stories about the animals of Thula Thula and have now added it to my bucket list of places I would love to visit in my future travels.
Thank you to netgalley for the audiobook copy to review. All opinions my own.
April 17, 2023
If you are looking for a feel good read- involving. Africa, Big Game, Sweeping landscapes… this is the book for you!
I was given an advance copy of the audio book- and I think overall, I found it interesting.
As a former aide-worker, I tend to feel less “romantic” about Africa in general, and I feel that sometimes makes me a bit over critical.
Overall, Francoise, the owner of a Private Game Reserve- Thula Thula describes the progress and expansion of the reserve over the years. She tells some very funny stories, and I felt a sense that she cares very much for the animals, and the with which she works. There were a few moment where I felt like she may have been anthropomorphizing the animals, but then I had to accept that I don’t know anything really about Elephants, having last seen one in Amboselli back in the “early 2000’s”
So who knows. Elephants are amazing animals and I suspect this woman has spent so much tie observing, she likely knows a thing or two that I don’t!
The part of the story that was most riveting to me was her description of the situation at Thula Thula after the Covid 19 Pandemic hit. I could relate intensely to that situation, and I was fascinated by the measures taken to cope. This is the first book I’ve read that addresses the pandemic in detail, and I will say, it felt odd to read about it…as opposed to be in the thick of it.
So overall, solidly put together memoir/account of expansion of a private game reserve. I would have preferred a little more day to day activities discussion, but perhaps that is for a different book!
I’m very tempted to visit Thula Thula someday though, as it seems lovely - with so many creatures, including delightful dogs.
I was given an advance copy of the audio book- and I think overall, I found it interesting.
As a former aide-worker, I tend to feel less “romantic” about Africa in general, and I feel that sometimes makes me a bit over critical.
Overall, Francoise, the owner of a Private Game Reserve- Thula Thula describes the progress and expansion of the reserve over the years. She tells some very funny stories, and I felt a sense that she cares very much for the animals, and the with which she works. There were a few moment where I felt like she may have been anthropomorphizing the animals, but then I had to accept that I don’t know anything really about Elephants, having last seen one in Amboselli back in the “early 2000’s”
So who knows. Elephants are amazing animals and I suspect this woman has spent so much tie observing, she likely knows a thing or two that I don’t!
The part of the story that was most riveting to me was her description of the situation at Thula Thula after the Covid 19 Pandemic hit. I could relate intensely to that situation, and I was fascinated by the measures taken to cope. This is the first book I’ve read that addresses the pandemic in detail, and I will say, it felt odd to read about it…as opposed to be in the thick of it.
So overall, solidly put together memoir/account of expansion of a private game reserve. I would have preferred a little more day to day activities discussion, but perhaps that is for a different book!
I’m very tempted to visit Thula Thula someday though, as it seems lovely - with so many creatures, including delightful dogs.
December 29, 2023
This was a delightful book. Even though I didn't finish it, I appreciated the dedication of those looking after the animals and enjoyed the stories about the different animals.
Françoise Malby-Anthony's The Elephants of Thula Thula is the story about an extraordinary herd of elephants and the woman dedicated to keeping them safe.
‘Somehow, the elephants got into my soul, and it became my life’s work to see them safe and happy. There was no giving up on that vision, no matter how hard the road was at times.’
Françoise Malby-Anthony is the owner of a game reserve in South Africa with a remarkable family of elephants whose adventures have touched hearts around the world. The herd’s feisty matriarch Frankie knows who’s in charge at Thula Thula, and it’s not Francoise. But when Frankie becomes ill, and the authorities threaten to remove or cull some of the herd if the reserve doesn’t expand, Françoise is in a race against time to save her beloved elephants . . .
The joys and challenges of a life dedicated to conservation are vividly described in The Elephants of Thula Thula . The search is on to get a girlfriend for orphaned rhino Thabo – and then, as his behaviour becomes increasingly boisterous, a big brother to teach him manners. Françoise realizes a dream with the arrival of Savannah the cheetah – an endangered species not seen in the area since the 1940s – and finds herself rescuing meerkats kept as pets. But will Thula Thula survive the pandemic, an invasion from poachers and the threat from a mining company wanting access to its land?
As Françoise faces her toughest years yet, she realizes once again that with their wisdom, resilience and communal bonds, the elephants have much to teach us.
Françoise Malby-Anthony's The Elephants of Thula Thula is the story about an extraordinary herd of elephants and the woman dedicated to keeping them safe.
‘Somehow, the elephants got into my soul, and it became my life’s work to see them safe and happy. There was no giving up on that vision, no matter how hard the road was at times.’
Françoise Malby-Anthony is the owner of a game reserve in South Africa with a remarkable family of elephants whose adventures have touched hearts around the world. The herd’s feisty matriarch Frankie knows who’s in charge at Thula Thula, and it’s not Francoise. But when Frankie becomes ill, and the authorities threaten to remove or cull some of the herd if the reserve doesn’t expand, Françoise is in a race against time to save her beloved elephants . . .
The joys and challenges of a life dedicated to conservation are vividly described in The Elephants of Thula Thula . The search is on to get a girlfriend for orphaned rhino Thabo – and then, as his behaviour becomes increasingly boisterous, a big brother to teach him manners. Françoise realizes a dream with the arrival of Savannah the cheetah – an endangered species not seen in the area since the 1940s – and finds herself rescuing meerkats kept as pets. But will Thula Thula survive the pandemic, an invasion from poachers and the threat from a mining company wanting access to its land?
As Françoise faces her toughest years yet, she realizes once again that with their wisdom, resilience and communal bonds, the elephants have much to teach us.
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