Secrets of the Artis Zoo

“A heartbreaking and resilient tale of love, loss, and survival, Secrets of the Artis Zoo explores the depths of grief and the quiet strength it takes to endure.” Jesse Roder, author of Sirens and Shenanigans

During the dark days of World War II, amid Nazi domination and the deportation of Jews, the light of hope shines, often from the most ordinary of people. such is the case in occupied Holland, where neighbors support one another and where unlikely friendships blossom.

After the death of his wife leaves Karl alone and bereft, the elephant Vrij at Amsterdam’s Artis Zoo, where Karl is employed, becomes his closest companion. Soon, he strikes up a friendship with a Jewish family named Wolff, who have a little boy named Daniel. Karl is touched by the plight of the family, and he fears for the future of the little boy. But dark clouds loom on the horizon, and the family is threatened. Because of his close bond with the Wolffs, Karl too is in danger. There seems no way of escape, until fate takes over.

Based on the remarkable true story of the role the Artis Zoo played in helping refugees during World War II, Secrets of the Artis Zoo is a testament to the power of ordinary people to perform extraordinary acts of courage. In the worst of times, love and loyalty transcend all boundaries—even between species.