The Elephant Whisperer

As a white man in rural Africa working in conservation, what are some of the challenges Anthony faces over the course of his work? How does he meet these challenges? Do you agree with his approach?

Anthony reflects on the balance of life and death in nature on multiple occasions. How is the cycle of life and death depicted? What is its wider significance?

Running a reserve is not an easy job, requiring a concerted community effort, as the book constantly demonstrates. Who are some of the people Anthony relies on to run Thula Thula? What does the memoir suggest about teamwork, community, and relationships?

Who is the “elephant whisperer”? How does the title foreshadow or embody some of the themes and experiences explored in the book?

While the elephants are the focus of the book, Anthony recounts multiple encounters and experiences with other forms of wildlife, from lions and buffalo to snakes and even birds and insects. How does Anthony view and describe nature? How do different figures in the memoir interact with, or relate to, the natural world?

While Anthony references some scientific evidence to explain his interactions with the elephants and the way they communicate, much of his narration is anecdotal. Do you think he was truly able to establish reliable communication with the elephants?

Anthony has to make the heartbreaking decision of having Mnumzane put down when the elephant grows unruly and dangerous over time. How does Anthony attempt to balance intervention versus non-interference on the reserve? How do his policies relate to the memoir’s wider conceptions of nature and/or conservation?

The memoir explores the local customs, beliefs, history, and culture of Zululand and its influence on Thula Thula. When does this influence prove advantageous, and when does it turn detrimental? What wider issues do Anthony’s interactions with the local communities raise or allude to?