RALPH HELFER

From the creators of The Worlds Greatest Elephant comes the real-life story of the MGM Studios Lion. Perhaps the most recognizable Hollywood animal--outside of Lassie--is "Leo the Lion," MGM Studios famous mascot. For decades his image introduced hundreds of motion pictures, and Zamba the lion acted in dozens more. But he wasnt always a Hollywood star, and he certainly proved to be much more. This real-life story of Zamba, told by world-renowned animal behaviorist Ralph Helfer and Caldecott Honor recipient Ted Lewin, follows the famous lion from an orphaned cub in Africa to iconic Hollywood actor. But Zambas greatest role wasnt scripted and it certainly wasnt captured on film. In 1969, the canyon that housed Ralph Helfers animal ranch was ravaged by floods. As death claimed many of the animals, dozens were led to safety by one heroic lion. Zambas story, beautifully told and illustrated, is one that will entertain and inspire--both cubs and lions.

"Once I started this incomparable story, I couldnt put it down, and I cannot get it out of my mindnor will I ever. The message of what can be accomplished by training through affection and joy will thrill all animal lovers." Betty WhiteA captivating true story of loyalty, friendship, and high adventure that spans several decades and three continents, Modoc is an unforgettable piece of historical narrative and one of the most remarkable true stories ever told, perfect for fans of The Zookeepers Wife or Water for Elephants.Raised together in a small German circus town, a boy and an elephant forge an unbreakable human-animal bond that will last their entire lives, and would be tested time and again: through a near-fatal shipwreck in the Indian Ocean, an apprenticeship with the legendary Mahout elephant trainers in the Indian teak forests, and their eventual rise to circus stardom in 1940s New York City. As the African Sun-Times put it, Modoc is "heartwarming. . . probably the greatest love story ever told."But how did their incredible bond survive a world determined to tear them apart?An Epic Journey: From a small German circus town, through the teak forests of India, to the dazzling spotlight of 1940s New York City, their story spans decades and continents. A True Story of Survival: After a near-fatal shipwreck in the Indian Ocean separates them from everything theyve ever known, a boy and an elephant must rely on each other to survive. Unbreakable Friendship: Born on the same day, Bram and Modoc share a connection that defies boundaries, proving that the bond between a person and an animal can be the greatest love story of all. For Animal Lovers: Perfect for fans of Water for Elephants and The Zookeepers Wife, this incredible story championed by Betty White will capture the heart of any reader who believes in the powerful connection between humans and animals.