The Elephant of Thai Life & Legend

Rating:
Summary: One of the finest "coffee table" books I have ever seen!
Review: I bought this book in 1999 while in Bangkok on vacation from Saudi Arabia. During that fantastic 10-day trip, I had the opportunity to see some elephants around Bangkok and learned a bit about the special relationship that the Thai people have with elephants, much like Indians. The elephant is very highly regarded in Thai culture, and although animal cruelty toward elephants is known to happen from time to time, it is particularly rare. The 'mahouts" of Thai society are those who train and care for elephants, and there is, not uncommonly, a special bond between man and beast.

This book is beautifully published on acid-free paper, and contains enough photographs of the history of the elephant in Thai culture to keep you entranced for hours and hours. Exquisitly researched, the authors have done a tremendous service not only to the Thais, but to the elephants in their care.

If you have a soft spot for elephants or are fascinated by Far East cultures, this book is truly a "must have" title. It is a treasure!