Amidst Germany's invasion of Poland, the devastating impact of Stuka bombers was felt not only by Warsaw but also by its zoo. The majority of the animals perished, prompting zookeepers Jan and Antonina Zabinski to initiate a daring plan: utilizing vacant cages to hide Jews. A dozen more "guests" sought refuge within the Zabinskis' villa, emerging after dusk for meals, camaraderie, and occasional moments of tranquility, often accompanied by piano melodies. Jan, actively involved in the Polish resistance, strategically stored ammunition in the elephant enclosure and concealed explosives within the animal hospital. Simultaneously, Antonina adeptly managed this unique coexistence, attending to both human and animal inhabitants—otters, a badger, hyena pups, and lynxes.
Diane Ackerman's vibrant narrative style and her profound sensitivity to the natural world immerse us in the intricate lives of the zoo's creatures, their caretakers, and the concealed visitors. She skillfully illustrates how Antonina defiantly resisted succumbing to the pervasive dread of exposure, maintaining an aura of playfulness and innocence even as the European landscape crumbled in turmoil.
