An excellent book about how war devastates people and animals.

Father of Lions is excellent book about the Mosul Zoo and its keeper Abu Leith. This books chronicles Mosul through the end of its occupation by American and Iraqi forces through the years it is under the control of Daesh. Abu Leith is in charge of Mosul's zoo and is especially attached to the lion he has called Zombie. Abu Leith, with the help of his incredible wife and family, attempts to keep the animals alive through what can only be described as hell. The people of the city live through terror, deprivation and hunger, as do the animals. This book is well written, extensively researched, and describes the efforts of Abu Leith and Dr. Amir who liberate the surviving animals in the face of what seem to be impossible and highly adverse circumstances. It is heartbreaking, inspiring and compelling.