Life of Pi

Life of Pi

by Yann Martel

 
This is another book that I probably would not have read had it not been suggested to me by friends.
 
Although, it got off to a slow start, in my opinion, I did end up thoroughly enjoying this story.
 
The book is about a boy named Pi who is the son of a zookeeper and has an exceptional love for God in all forms.  He practices Hindu, Christianity and Islam; much to the outrage of the leaders of each faith.
 
But the meat of the story begins when Pi and his family, along with some zoo animals, emigrate to North America aboard a cargo ship.
 
Unfortunately, the boat sinks and the only survivors are Pi, a hyena, an orangutan, a zebra and a Bengal tiger.
 
As you might imagine, soon there is only Pi and the tiger left in the lifeboat.  Pi must then rely on his knowledge and wits to stay alive until he is rescued – 227 days after the ship sank.
 
I have to admit, I kept thinking about this book – particularly the ending – long after I read it.  Which is quite unusual for me – usually I finish one, toss it aside and begin on the next.
 
So if you want a book that will make you appreciate that fiction sometimes makes a better story than the reality - this is the book for you.