The Rhino Keeper

Douwemout van der Meer did not expect to meet the behemoth of Job face-to-face, much less take ownership of it. Then again, after meeting such an adorable creature, he knew he had to show Clara off to all of Europe, so that the people there could better understand this monster. And who better than Andrea, a historian-in-training and animal lover trying to find her own way in the world, to help uncover this part of Europe's forgotten history.

The Rhino Keeper is a fantastic way to introduce the story of Clara the rhinoceros to readers, much in the same way that Clara was a beautiful way for Douwe to introduce Europe to the Indian Rhino. The story pulls you from the beginning by introducing the reader to parallel story lines, one modern and one 200 years ago. The reader is kept engaged throughout the book as they follow Andrea through the mystery of the grave she is meant to be taking records of, as well as being pulled through the story of Clara and her travels around Europe. With philosophical debates being brought up about the rhino's existence, as well as other moral hardships throughout the story, the book gives the reader space to reflect on their own moral compass.

All-in-all a great way to learn about some of the world's lost history. And I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys the thought of rhinos being introduced to kings and queens.

* Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to listen to this advanced copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

An historical novel about an 18th century sea captain who comes into possession of an infant Indian rhinoceros, Clara, and tours with the now beloved animal throughout Europe. This is a dual narrative, paired with a story about a contemporary historical researcher unveiling the mysteries of Clara's story from the 1700's while discovering the focus of her own life (think, oh say, the movie Titantic). It works. This is based upon actual history of which we know very little. The narrative picks up steam as it goes, including a little mystery, of course. But for me, the best parts were, first, the dip into the lives of the 1700's, the dangers of ocean travel, the risks of sickness, the lavishness of royalty, but secondly, and most of all, the depiction of the bonds that are possible between humans and animals. A delight for animal- and history-lovers (or both).