Behind the Dolphin Smile

This was an excellent book if it was considered fiction. Even though the story is true, O' Barry's views are totally outdated, marine parks in the 60's are VERY different from what they are now. An awesome book, but O' Barry needs to get his head out of the past.

I think this book is well worth reading. I am a person that use to love marine parks, however my view has changed. Much is do to this book, plus my own research on the web. I have found out that most dolphins & whales in captivity don't live very long. There are exceptions like Miami Seaquarium's Lolita the killer whale. She is old for a captive whale, however she lives in a tank without other orcas & the tank is way too small, among other things. Do your own investigation on the web about her terrible living conditions. Ric O'Barry has been trying to do the right thing for dolphins which is freedom! He was Flipper's trainer. I don't agree with some of Ric's personal beliefs, however he is right on about dolphins. How you can support marine parks after reading this book would be extremely difficult. I have been on whale watches and if done properly, I feel are a better way to see God's creation. Ric says the best thing regarding marine parks is "Don't Buy a ticket". These dolphins are not fed enough so that they will do tricks. Read the book, then you decide!

This is one of the best books that I have read in a long time. It should be read by anyone who loves animals and who believes in animal-rights. Besides that it is an interesting autobiographical sketch of Richard O'Barry and gives you a closer glimpse of people like Dr. John Lilly. It also gives one an idea of how films like Flipper are made and what becomes of the poor dolphins in the end.

A wonderfully compassionate look at dolphins in captivity from an ex-industry insider; inspiring story that makes you want to change the world for the better.

Although it has been several years since I read this book, it made a lasting impression on how I feel towards captivity of marine and other non-domestic animals. In addition, it opened my eyes to animal neglect and, by my defination, cruelty. For those that love animals, it's worth finding!