Becoming Wild and Beyond Words by Carl Safina

Two new books from the famed ecologist and bestselling author. The first, for adult audiences, examines “how animal cultures raise families, create beauty and achieve peace.” The second, for younger readers, adapts one of Safina’s earlier adult books and discusses the inner lives of wolves and dogs. Both are must-reads.

I've loved some of Safina's other works but this one was a letdown for me. I found much of it too repetitive and lacking little actual information being conveyed. I have no doubt animals have cultures and I agree with Safina's premise and much of his findings etc. I just felt he often failed to convey to the average reader his overall purpose of the book and too often was found to be speaking of the animals without relating it to his book's premise. Note: the sperm whale section was definitely the strongest in the book.

Fascinating looks at animals (specifically, whales, macaws, and chimpanzees) and their cultures. I never gave a lot of thought to culture in species other than humans before, and this book gave me a lot of food for thought.

* Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

When selected to receive this Netgalley, I was elated because it certainly is not my typical read. However, I was drawn to the premise that it would push me outside of my typical reading habits and open my eyes to new concepts and ideas unfamiliar to me. That is certainly did! Through taking a glimpse into some of the last remaining "wild" places and societies on Earth, we are offered a glimpse into three cultures: sperm whale, scarlet macaw, and chimpanzees. Our cultures are continually changing and evolving and by stopping to observe the things that go around us, we are better able to understand the lives of individuals and our interactions on a more in-depth level. By approaching this subject in an unconventional manner of viewing interactions, legacies, knowledge and a sense of belonging through the eyes of various species, it clarifies and solidifies some understanding of ourselves as humans. I recommend this book thoroughly because it is written in a manner that is both approachable and endearing. It is sure to teach you something you've never considered before and it is not to be missed!