Quotes
“The scientific story of how humans are designed to bond with animals—and the cost, to us and to the rest of animate creation, of breaking that bond.” Sy Montgomery, New York Times bestselling author
“Takes us from one example to another of animals making our lives better. Being there for us without judgment regardless of the circumstances, animals have an immense healing power that science is only beginning to grasp.” Frans de Waal, New York Times bestselling author
“Highly recommended for a global audience.” Psychology Today
“[Akhtar] has the scientific chops to make a strong case for animals as our co-equals, worthy of compassion and respect. That recognition, she implies, will make us better people.” Washington Independent Review of Books
“This deeply affecting book reveals just how important animals are to human health and happiness.” Shelf Awareness
“Akhtar’s book draws a sobering but hopeful picture of what has been done and what remains to be done to improve animals’ lives.” Publishers Weekly
“A heartfelt call for compassion for all living species.” Kirkus Reviews
“Themes of vulnerability, injustice, redemption, and love are woven into a moving narrative that drew me in and kept me hungrily turning the pages.” Jonathan Balcombe, author of Second Nature
“In this notable volume, neurologist Akhtar uses personal childhood trauma to launch a thoughtful discussion of the extent of, and limits to, human empathy toward animals…She concludes with suggestions on how to make a difference.” Publishers Weekly
“[A] important and illuminating work. For all the feel-good tales of animal empathy at its best, Akhtar also offers harrowing examples of extreme and graphic viciousness that will be tough going for sensitive readers.” Booklist