Animals have been central to Sy Montgomery’s life since childhood. She draws on the impact of 13 of them—from beloved pet dogs, to the wild emus that triggered her writing career—as a lens for her memoir. Each of the animals featured can be seen to influence Montgomery’s life in significant ways, whether professionally or personally, like Christopher Hogwood, a pig whose hearty appetite and social charisma prod his introverted owner into interacting with neighbors. While the book design, illustrations, and general theme of this memoir give an impression of suitability to young children, the focus on an adult life and challenging issues including parental estrangement, severe depression, and thoughts of suicide, place it solidly in the young adult realm. (Age 13 and older)

A New York Times bestseller!

National Book Award finalist Sy Montgomery reflects on the personalities and quirks of 13 animals--her friends--who have profoundly affected her in this stunning, poetic, and life-affirming memoir featuring illustrations by Rebecca Green.

Understanding someone who belongs to another species can be transformative. No one knows this better than author, naturalist, and adventurer Sy Montgomery. To research her books, Sy has traveled the world and encountered some of the planet's rarest and most beautiful animals. From tarantulas to tigers, Sy's life continually intersects with and is informed by the creatures she meets.

This restorative memoir reflects on the personalities and quirks of thirteen animals--Sy's friends--and the truths revealed by their grace. It also explores vast themes: the otherness and sameness of people and animals; the various ways we learn to love and become empathetic; how we find our passion; how we create our families; coping with loss and despair; gratitude; forgiveness; and most of all, how to be a good creature in the world.