This was definitely a learning while reading experience. While a bit slow to start, I was mesmerized while reading about the true events surrounding the ISIS occupation of Mosul, Iraq. It was even more moving since similar events are still affecting our political climate. War is always terrible and harrowing, but having the perspective from this one man who was risking his and his family's livelihood in his plight to protect the animals at the zoo was "edge-of-your-seat" suspenseful. While upsetting to read about the conflict in Mosul and the neglect of the zoo animals, it was also heartwarming to watch this man work so hard to keep the animals safe and alive. I would have loved to read more about those animals, but it was a nice read nonetheless.