There’s something about stories narrated by animals that provide a very different reading experience. Whether they are anthropomorphized or remain true to their wild selves, animal narrators give us a chance to step out of our human skin and see the world around us in new ways. Here are some titles that are in turn tragic, poignant and delightful.
We3 by Grant Morrison and Frank Quietly
A dog, a cat, and a rabbit, formerly benign domestic pets, become lethal weapons through a top secret military cybernetics experiment. As prototypes, the team is programmed to work together as the ultimate killing machine, drawing on each species’ innate characteristics to create one unstoppable force. When the experiment comes to an end and it’s time for We3 to be neutralized, distant memories of home drive their desperate escape. This graphic novel is simply gorgeous in both story and execution. Morrison’s nuanced and emotionally resonant storytelling is amplified by Frank Quietly’s beautiful illustrations.
Fox 8 by George Saunders
Always the dreamer of his pack, Fox 8 is confused and captivated by Yumans, learning their language by hiding outside windows every night and listening to children’s bedtime stories. Coexistence between the species is tenuous but possible until a new development threatens the pack’s way of life, leading Fox 8 to write a letter to the Yumans seeking an explanation. Clocking in at a mere 48 pages, this is about as spare as it could be but Saunders makes every word count. The narration is unusual but rich in this charming fable.
The Traveling Cat Chronicles by Hiro Arikawa
Only when Nana is hit by a car will the stray cat, with a fiercely independent spirit and crooked tail (a sign of luck), deign to become a pet. After being nursed back to health by the kind Satoru, the two begin a meandering road trip around Japan to find Nana a permanent home. This story about friendship and adventure is glorious in its kindness and subtlety, and the detailed seasonal changes and scenic landscape of Japan provide a lovely backdrop.
For more books with an animal as a main character, check out our booklist.
For more ideas for books to meet your Summer Book Bingo challenge, follow our Shelf Talk #BookBingoNW2020 series or check the hashtag #BookBingoNW2020 on social media. Book bingo is presented in partnership with Seattle Arts & Lectures .
~ Posted by Summer H.
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