Science has shown us that animals communicate constantly and elaborately amongst themselves: bees exchange directions via ‘waggle dances’; dolphins have a ‘signature whistle’ that functions like a human name; and fruit flies even have local dialects. But are they talking to us too? And could we ever learn to listen and understand what they’re trying to say? With the doggedness of a journalist, the soul of an animal lover, and the wonder of a curious intellect, Amelia Thomas pursues the answer, determined to better listen to her own menagerie (a horse, pony, chickens, dogs, cat, mice, goat and pigs). Taking us on her journey of discovery through the scientific, practical, and spiritual ways people today are trying to listen to animals, she meets with animal behaviourists, anthrozoologists, pet psychics, animal trainers, AI experts, indigenous trackers and psychologists – all of whom are listening in vastly different ways to vastly different species. Filled with warm wit, fascinating stories, and surprising science, What Do Sheep Think About the Weather is an illuminating, playful, and personal quest to understand animals on their own terms, rather than through a human lens. Praise for The Zoo on the Road to Nablus ‘Engaging, often inspiring and sometimes poignant’ Daily Mail ‘Beautifully written and entertaining’ Washington Post ‘Unique and fascinating’ Publisher’s Weekly
‘A refreshingly open-minded and wide-ranging book that seeks to bridge the gulf that all too often separates us from our fellow creatures. It movingly reveals how much they have to tell us – if only we are willing to slow down and listen to them properly.’ David Barrie, author of Incredible Journeys ‘A warm and thought-provoking read, filled with plenty of charm and wit. You'll never look at animals the same way.’ Jules Howard, author of Wonderdog ‘Compelling, original and surprisingly introspective, it simultaneously uncovers the animal in us and the human in animals.’ Hannah Bourne-Taylor, author of Nature Needs You ‘Blend the lively, buoyant writing of an award-winning non-scientist with a boat-load of direct experiences with animals, and you have this book. I found it both illuminating and entertaining from start to finish.’ Jonathan Balcombe, author of What a Fish Knows ‘Based on the latest science, fascinating stories, and personal reflections, this easy-to-read, fact-filled and fun-filled book will open all of your senses including your sense of awe and get you to wonder what it is like to be one of them in their worlds, not ours.’ Marc Bekoff, PhD., University of Colorado, Boulder; author of The Emotional Lives of Animals ‘Every single page of this marvelous book will challenge you, even enchant you. I cannot recommend it highly enough.’ Jeffrey Masson, author of When Elephants Weep ‘Amelia Thomas is a powerful storyteller and has hit it out of the park in this contemporary anthology of our relationship with animals. From cuttlefish to cows, this brilliantly written and emotionally charged page turner is a masterpiece and masterclass for all animals – human and nonhuman.’ Pilley Bianchi, author of For the Love of Dog ‘Thomas’s passion and concern for animals comes through in vivid scenes and poignant prose that reveals the importance of understanding animals on their own terms . . . an inspiring display of empathy.’ Publisher’s Weekly ‘A sweet and sometimes sad journey into the natural world beyond humanity. This is for naturalists, birders, pet owners, and anyone who interacts with animals or would like to.’ Library Journal ‘A comprehensive yet conversational book that effortlessly illuminates the possibilities of human-animal communication . . . Full of fascinating facts wittily conveyed, it elucidates science and nurtures empathy. Thomas's genial tone will make readers feel they know each of the pets and wild animals described.’ Shelf Awareness
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