Carrying Albert Home: The Somewhat True Story of A Man, His Wife, and Her Alligator by Homer Hickam recounts the adventurous journey of a man named Homer, his wife Elsie, and her pet alligator Albert. Traveling from West Virginia to Florida, they encounter numerous challenges and colorful characters, exploring themes of love, adventure, and personal growth along the way.

Humorous

Adventurous

Bittersweet

Romantic

Fantastical

Reviews & Readership

4.1

7,524 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

Not a fan

Review Roundup

Carrying Albert Home by Homer Hickam is lauded for its whimsical storytelling and charming blend of fact and fiction. Readers enjoy its humor and heartwarming journey, though some find its pacing uneven. Characters, especially the alligator Albert, are memorable. Overall, it's an engaging adventure, but it may not appeal to those seeking a more conventional narrative.

Who Should Read Carrying Albert Home: The Somewhat True Story of A Man, His Wife, and Her Alligator?

Fans of whimsical, heartwarming tales like Forrest Gump or Water for Elephants will enjoy Carrying Albert Home. Readers who appreciate Southern charm, quirky characters, and a blend of humor with poignant storytelling will be captivated by this adventurous, semi-true life journey.

4.1

7,524 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Carrying Albert Home is based on a blend of family legend and imagination, drawing inspiration from the lives of Homer Hickam's parents and their pet alligator, Albert.

The author's mother, Elsie, had a real-life connection to famed writer and journalist John Steinbeck, which adds an intriguing layer to the family history captured in the book.

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The story captures a whimsical period of American history and culture, rooted in the 1930s, combining elements of adventure and romance with a touch of the surreal.

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Book Details

Pages

432

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre

Historical Fiction

•

Action & Adventure

•

Humor

Setting

West Virginia • 1930s

Theme

Family

Topic

Animals

•

World History

Publication Year

2015

Audience

Adult