Product Description

For Mike Carrara, the mysterious East becomes very real in the shape of a wondrous white elephant—an unexpected gift from an uncle he hardly knew. Here is a story of joy, and of tears, that begins in the sweltering heat of an Indian courtroom and continues to an off-the-grid farm in the hills of Maryland, and to the frozen, removed lands of neo-capitalistic Siberia. It is a tale of the everyday, yet also a tale of the transcendent. It is a tale to be retold and reread, for it possesses a dimension of the human experience that is mythic and yet so compassionately real. The characters you will meet are not only unforgettable, but you’ll find yourself in close identity with some. It is a tale that you will wish could continue.

Product Details

• Published on: 2006-04
• Original language: English
• Binding: Paperback
• 216 pages

Customer Reviews

A Lovely Debut Novel

The story begins in a judge's chamber in Pune, India. Mike Carrara has traveled to hear the reading of his uncle's will, fulfilling a promise he made to the dying man. He hears he's inherited a white elephant, by the name of Arjuna, as well as the elephant's trainer. Also property in Western Maryland, USA where the elephant, trainer and assorted animals are presently residing. Being a retired doctor, living in a gated community, Mike doesn't know what he'd do with an elephant. The judge suggests he sell it, he'd get a good price. An associate of his uncle says it boils down to duty or convenience. Mike decides, and his decision determines what happens next, and down through the years.

The author introduces Ayurvedic principles and beliefs and weaves them throughout the story with good effect. The dialog is good, so good the first few pages of the book will have you smiling and finding a comfy place to read the rest of the book. Besides the story, the message I got from the book is that one action of ours-a good deed-can have a profound effect on others.

I highly recommend the book and hope Mr. Mroz has another novel out soon.