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A review by themichellegray
How to Be a Good Creature: A Memoir in Thirteen Animals by Sy Montgomery
adventurous
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
3.0
"Knowing someone who belongs to another species can enlarge your soul in surprising ways."
This was a unique autobiography with beautiful supporting illustrations of a woman who has gone on many adventures, studied a variety of species, and contributed a great deal to science. The book promised to describe how each animal taught the author how to be a "good creature" through their interactions; a compelling storytelling method that was unfortunately not supported through the actual writing.
Even though the concept was not really delivered, I still think the author has an impactful story to tell full of rare experiences. The subject matter was often sad but the narrative managed to remain hopeful. The stories shared brought back nostalgic feelings and memories of my own whilst encouraging me to reflect on my own time alongside animals.
Altogether, this was an average reading experience that I expected a little more out of.
This was a unique autobiography with beautiful supporting illustrations of a woman who has gone on many adventures, studied a variety of species, and contributed a great deal to science. The book promised to describe how each animal taught the author how to be a "good creature" through their interactions; a compelling storytelling method that was unfortunately not supported through the actual writing.
Even though the concept was not really delivered, I still think the author has an impactful story to tell full of rare experiences. The subject matter was often sad but the narrative managed to remain hopeful. The stories shared brought back nostalgic feelings and memories of my own whilst encouraging me to reflect on my own time alongside animals.
Altogether, this was an average reading experience that I expected a little more out of.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death, Grief, Death of parent, and Suicidal thoughts
Moderate: Cancer and Child abuse
Minor: Animal cruelty and Excrement