Folks,

I thought that some of you might be interested in this book:
.......................................................................................................

The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating by Elisabeth Tova Bailey

Published in the U.S. August 24th, 2010. Algonquin Books. $18.95.

Published in the UK, September 23rd, 2010. Green Books. 12.95 pounds.



“How interesting can a snail be? Entirely captivating, as it turns out.
[Bailey] is a marvelous writer, and the marriage of science and poetic
mysticism that characterizes this small volume is magical. It's a . . .
reminder that the things we overlook are sometimes the things that can
save us. . . ” —Star Tribune

In a work that beautifully demonstrates the rewards of closely observing
nature, Elisabeth Tova Bailey shares an inspiring and intimate story of
her uncommon encounter with a Neohelix albolabris—a common woodland snail.
While an illness keeps her bedridden, Bailey watches a wild snail that has
taken up residence on her nightstand. As a result, she discovers the
solace and sense of wonder that this mysterious creature brings and comes
to a greater understanding of the interconnections between species and her
own human place in the natural world. Intrigued by the snail’s molluscan
anatomy, cryptic defenses, clear decision making, hydraulic locomotion,
and mysterious courtship activities, Bailey becomes an astute and amused
observer, providing a candid and engaging look into the curious life of
this overlooked and underappreciated small animal. Told with wit and
grace, The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating is a remarkable journey of
survival and resilience, showing us how a small part of the natural world
illuminates our own human existence. For more information:
www.elisabethtovabailey.net

Tim Pearce, assistant curator of Mollusks at Carnegie Museum of Natural
History, worked closely with the author to get the science right during
the writing of this charming book. The story brings to the popular
consciousness intriguing details in splendid (and accessible) prose about
the lives of these traditionally overlooked creatures. It was a joy to
work with her.
.............................................................................................................


Regards,
Charlie
.................................................
Charlie Sturm
Research Associate - Section of Mollusks
Carnegie Museum of Natural History
Pittsburgh, PA, USA

Assistant Professor - Family Medicine
Fellow-American Academy of Family Practice
Fellow-Academy of Wilderness Medicine

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