• How to Be a Good Creature

  • A Memoir in Thirteen Animals
  • By: Sy Montgomery
  • Narrated by: Sy Montgomery
  • Length: 3 hrs and 42 mins
  • 4.3 out of 5 stars (1,194 ratings)

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How to Be a Good Creature

By: Sy Montgomery
Narrated by: Sy Montgomery
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Publisher's summary

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 13 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.

©2018 Sy Montgomery (P)2018 HighBridge, a division of Recorded Books

What listeners say about How to Be a Good Creature

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Sy is a simply awesome creature

Great book but honestly hearing it spoken in her own voice is just exceptional. Hearing her voice describe her feelings brought smiles to my face and tears to my eyes. Whole family loves Sy!

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amazing

Sy is amazing!! I couldn't stop listening even when she brought me to tears !!

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Completely charming

A true delight to listen to the author so clearly describing the many animals that impacted her life.

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Great Observations of Interesting Animals

This was a really good short memoir told through the narrative structure of 13 animals that have significantly impacted the author's life in one way or another.

Some of these are animals that she studied over the years, but some of them are pets that she has had. Animals mentioned here include: dogs, pigs, chickens, emus, octopuses, and spiders. Since it is short, I can see this being a cute gift for a friend or loved one who enjoys animals. This is Sy Montgomery at her best: often endearing, sometimes heart-wrenching, but always real and honest. At her core, Montgomery loves animals--essentially all animals--and is such an astute observer. Her eye for little behaviors and breadth for understanding the natural world is impressive. Her candid voice makes her writings great for everyone to enjoy.

I would recommend this to anyone who has pets, enjoyed visiting zoos/aquariums, watches nature shows/documentaries, or otherwise just generally likes animals. I would also recommend to anyone who has read other books by Sy Montgomery, such as "The Soul of an Octopus" (which I have).

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What a gem!

I purchased this book as an Audible daily deal. Having finished it, I can confidently say it's worth the full price and more. Eloquently written with great love and respect for all animals. Even if you're already an animal lover, the author's wonderfully warm language and style will add depth to your soul. I fully recommend this book.

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  • Ed
  • 06-10-20

Memoir primarily

If you are interested in a memoir about the authors life, this is the book.

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I loved this book

Another exceptional book 💜. I loved reading it … it kept me smiling … intermittently sprinkled with tears. Thank you Ty!

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Not What I Was Expecting, But Surprisingly Good

A collection of short stories of the authors experience with animals over the years and how they have impacted her live positively and significantly. I appreciated this collection, and loved the performance by the author as well.

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All Gods Creatures, Great & Small

This is a unique story, featuring a unique individual and her equally unique family. Noah would be so proud.

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From the Heart and From the Soul...!

A heartfelt read for any true animal lover. The author shares her emotional journey with the animals who have formed her life and outlook.

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