West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge – A Historical Road Trip Novel Inspired by a True Story

West With Giraffes - Lynda Rutledge 

By: a.d. elliott | Take the Back Roads - Art and Other Odd Adventures

A Rite of Fancy Book Recommendation and Review

The great American Giraffe road trip during the Great Depression.

A short summary:

West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge is a richly imagined historical novel inspired by the true 1938 journey that transported two giraffes from New York to the San Diego Zoo during the Great Depression. Told through the reflective voice of Woodrow Wilson Nickel in his later years, the story retraces a cross-country road trip filled with mechanical breakdowns, Dust Bowl hardships, looming war, and unexpected kindness. Along the way, Woody, the gruff older handler, and the mysterious young woman accompanying them form an unlikely family, discovering hope and resilience in a nation struggling to hold itself together. It’s a story about movement, across landscapes, across generations, and toward healing.

My favorite quote:

"Lions got no choice but to always be lions. We do."

Lynda Rutledge, West With Giraffes

Questions to ponder while reading:

Do you like animals?

What would you do to make your mark on the world?

My review:

This novel is an absolute delight, a road trip story that balances wonder with weight. Rutledge weaves meticulous historical detail into an adventure that never feels heavy, grounding the novelty of giraffes on American highways in the very real struggles of the Great Depression. I loved how seamlessly fact and fiction blended, especially in the quieter moments where human connection mattered more than spectacle. Knowing the journey is based on a true story only deepens its emotional impact. This is one of those books that feels both comforting and enlightening, reminding us that even in the hardest times, extraordinary stories are quietly unfolding.

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a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller living in Salem, Virginia. 

In addition to her travel writings at www.takethebackroads.com, you can also read her book reviews at www.riteoffancy.com and US military biographies at www.everydaypatriot.com

Her online photography gallery can be found at shop.takethebackroads.com

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