The Druid and the Elephant by Andy Morrall is a gripping historical fantasy novel designed for readers aged 12 and above.
The story centers on Caz, a young boy living in ancient Britain with strikingly different-colored eyes. Believed to be gifted by his people, Caz is sent to train as a druid, despite his dreams of becoming a warrior.
When Emperor Claudius and his Roman forces invade Britain, Caz takes up arms in defense of his homeland but is powerless to stop the onslaught. After his father’s death at the hands of the Romans, Caz swears vengeance—not just on the Romans but also on their allies, the Iceni tribe.
Infiltrating the Roman camp, Caz befriends the elephant rider in Emperor Claudius’s entourage. Adopting the Roman name Decimus, he joins the emperor’s barbarian bodyguard and journeys to Rome, where he uses his druidic skills and the elephant’s might to exact revenge on those who destroyed his homeland.
Decimus’s journey takes him across the Roman Empire, leading to years of daring exploits. Eventually, he is sent back to Britannia after the death of the Iceni king. There, he discovers his former druid teachers slaughtered by Roman forces and is drawn into Boudicca’s rebellion.
As the rebellion races toward Londinium, Decimus faces a climactic battle where his true loyalties are revealed. Using his unique abilities and alliances, he seeks final retribution against his enemies.
Author Andy Morrall drew inspiration for the book from the historical account of Emperor Claudius riding an elephant through the streets of Colchester. “To the locals, it must have been both awe-inspiring and terrifying—seeing the most powerful man in the world on such a monstrous creature. How could they resist such a foe? But they did, and this story follows one of those rebels,” Morrall explained.
A graduate of Hanley Castle High School with a degree in English from Aberdeen, Morrall now teaches creative writing and specializes in fantasy and science fiction.
Published by Earnshaw Books, The Druid and the Elephant is available in paperback for £15.82 and on Kindle US. Readers can find more resources on the author’s website, andymorrall.com, including teaching materials on Roman history and an engaging “Is it really true?” section for historical insights. The first chapter of the book is also available to read for free on the site.
