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Critical Praise

“The life stories related by these very civilized animals are in some cases touching (the elephant), in others amusing (the mussel), but all are absorbing. They are transmitted to us with a light touch and no trace of sentimentality.” 

—J. M. Coetzee

“By appropriating history, mythology, folklore, and even astrology, Dovey finds impressive depth and complexity in the souls of an array of animals…. Dovey finds humanity in her diverse protag-onists, and the stories are full of surprises, warmth and insight.”

—Publishers Weekly

“Dovey succeeds in providing original bittersweet tales with the hard-edged truths of history. An essential collection, enthusiastically recommended.” 

—Library Journal (starred review)

“Wonderfully weird and profoundly witty…Dovey’s stories, at once charming and haunting, are something else altogether. ‘Absorbing’ is not quite the right word for them --- their poetic oddness keep them at arm’s length --- but they are intoxicating nonetheless. As unsettling as they are beautiful, these quietly wise stories wedge themselves into your mind --- and stay there.”

—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)