Book Review Summary: Animalish

Introduction

"Animalish" by Susan Orlean is a delightful and heartwarming autobiographical account of the author's lifelong love affair with animals. Through her personal experiences and encounters with various creatures, Orlean explores the profound impact animals have on our lives and how they enrich our connections to ourselves and the world around us. In this article, we will delve into the book's summary, analyze the author's background, examine readers' views, and provide reasons for both recommending and not recommending this book.

About Susan Orlean

Susan Orlean is an accomplished writer known for her engaging storytelling and passion for animals. Born and raised in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, Orlean pursued her dream of becoming a writer despite having no formal training or credentials. After moving to Portland, Oregon, she landed a job as a writer and went on to write for various publications such as The Phoenix, The Boston Globe, and The New Yorker. With over three decades of experience as a staff writer at The New Yorker, Orlean's writing has captured the hearts of many readers with her ability to weave captivating stories that resonate deeply.

Analysis of Views

1. Animals as a source of joy and texture: Many readers found "Animalish" to be a cute and heartwarming account of the author's relationship with animals. They appreciated how animals brought a sense of warmth, wonder, and unpredictability into her life, making it more vibrant and rich.
2. A quick-read for animal lovers: Some readers enjoyed the book as a quick read that offered insights into the author's life with animals. While they found certain parts amusing, they felt that the book could have delved deeper into the author's relationships with the animals and explored more profound aspects of their connection.
3. A celebration of country life: Animal lovers who enjoyed reading about country life found "Animalish" to be an engaging story that showcased the chaos and closeness of living with animals. They appreciated the positive energy and the growth that comes from opening up to raising different species.
4. A reflection on our connections with animals: Readers who were drawn to the book's exploration of our connections with animals found it thought-provoking and inspiring. They appreciated how Orlean's writing highlighted the deep bond between humans and animals and how it enriches our understanding of ourselves.
5. A fun read from a talented writer: Many readers praised Susan Orlean's writing style, describing it as engaging, humorous, and animal-centric. They enjoyed her use of phrases like "decant chickens into their coop" and appreciated her ability to create a fun reading experience.

Reasons for Recommendation

1. A celebration of animal companionship: "Animalish" offers a delightful exploration of the author's love for animals and how they have enriched her life. Readers who appreciate the companionship and unconditional love that animals provide will find this book relatable and heartwarming.
2. Engaging storytelling: Susan Orlean's writing style is praised for its engaging storytelling ability. Readers enjoy her ability to weave captivating stories that capture their attention and keep them entertained throughout the book.
3. Insightful reflections on human-animal relationships: For those who are interested in exploring the deeper aspects of human-animal relationships, "Animalish" provides valuable insights into how animals can shape our lives and bring us closer to ourselves.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

1. Length and format: Some readers felt that the book was too short and lacked depth, especially considering its advertised format as a "Kindle Single." They expected a longer narrative or more substance for the price they paid.
2. Limited storytelling: A few readers felt that the book lacked a strong narrative structure and felt more like a brief biographical account of the author's love for animals. They found it lacking in depth and staying power compared to other books they have read on similar topics.

Conclusion

"Animalish" by Susan Orlean is a delightful exploration of the author's lifelong love affair with animals, offering readers a glimpse into her personal experiences and encounters with various creatures. While some readers found it to be a quick-read filled with humor and heartwarming stories, others felt that it lacked depth and substance. Regardless, "Animalish" serves as a celebration of animal companionship and the profound impact they have on our lives. With its engaging storytelling style, Susan Orlean's writing captivates readers who appreciate heartfelt accounts of human-animal relationships. Whether you are an animal lover or simply enjoy reading about personal journeys, "Animalish" offers a delightful read that will leave you with a renewed appreciation for the creatures that enrich our lives.