The Soul of an Octopus A Surprising Exploration Into the Wonder of Consciousness

Description

A New York Times bestseller from the author of The Good Good Pig, The Soul of an Octopus is a “fascinating... informative” (The Daily Beast) exploration of the intelligence, behavior, and emotional world of one of the ocean’s most captivating creatures—and the extraordinary bonds they form with humans. Finalist for the National Book Award for NonfictionNew York Times BestsellerA Huffington Post Notable Nonfiction Book of the YearLibrary Journal Best Sci-Tech Book of the YearAn American Library Association Notable Book of the Year “Sy Montgomery’s The Soul of an Octopus does for the creature what Helen Macdonald’s H Is for Hawk did for raptors.” — New Statesman (UK) “One of the best science books of the year.” — Science Friday, NPR In pursuit of the wild, solitary, predatory octopus, acclaimed naturalist Sy Montgomery practices true immersion journalism. From New England aquarium tanks to the reefs of French Polynesia and the Gulf of Mexico, she befriends octopuses with remarkable personalities—gentle Athena, assertive Octavia, curious Kali, and joyful Karma. Each displays surprising cleverness: escaping enclosures, bouncing balls, and even outwitting human companions for food. As scientists begin to recognize the intelligence of dogs, birds, and primates, they are now uncovering the remarkable problem-solving skills and emotional depth of octopuses. With her “joyful passion for these intelligent and fascinating creatures” (Library Journal), Montgomery offers a luminous meditation on consciousness, empathy, and the connection between species. Funny, touching, and profound, The Soul of an Octopus invites readers to see the world through the eyes—and arms—of one of Earth’s most mysterious and extraordinary beings.