REVIEW: The Zoo at the Edge of the World

The Zoo at the Edge of the World
Author: Eric Kahn Gale

Marlin Rackham stutters. And he is completely fed up with people assuming because he stumbles over his words that he must also be stupid. But Marlin is a Rackham....and Rackhams power through even the most difficult of experiences. Marlin's father is famous. Roland Rackham is an adventurer, famous for his exploration of dangerous places and his capture of many dangerous animals. He now runs the Zoo at the Edge of the World, a resort for the wealthy to come and see exotic animals. This story tells of a strange and scary week at the zoo. Marlin's father captures a Jaguar. Not only is the Jaguar fierce, but it also gives Marlin a gift. A gift that will change everything. Marlin's life will never be the same.

This is such a magical and interesting story! It was not what I expected. Much, much more going on in this tale than just a children's story. This book might be just a bit too intense for younger readers. It delves into some very dark subjects. It's not graphic....just a bit dark and has some moments of violence that might be too much for kids under 10.

I listened to the audio book version of this story (Recorded Books). Narrated by Julian Elfer, the audio is almost 5 hours long. Elfer gives a great performance. He reads at a nice pace and gives the characters/animals personality. Very entertaining listening experience. I have hearing loss but was easily able to hear and understand the entire book.

This is the first book by Eric Kahn Gale that I have read. He has written three other books for middle grade students, The Bully Book, The Wizard's Dog and The Wizard's Dog Fetches the Grail. I enjoyed The Zoo at the Edge of the World, so I have added these other 3 books to my TBR. Always up for a great children's story!