Snake

This is more straightforward than some approaches in this series as Wright shares facts, stories, oddities and speculation about snakes. There's a fair amount touching on the reception of serpents in art, literature and culture but perhaps less than I expected. It's good though on the duality inscribed on snakes, both fear and fascination.

Even if this short book belongs to a series called “Object Lessons,” the author will probably agree with me that snakes are not a thing, but a wonder of nature with a PR problem. Still, the theme of the series makes this not a biology or ethology textbook, but a wonderful reflection of how humans view the snake as an object. There is plenty of information on these creatures, but there is also art, culture, folklore and even some poetry. Animal lovers will cringe at some paragraphs about the abuse that humans have brought on them throughout history. I once was walking by the river behind my office and saw a big, fat gopher snake. I immediately went closer (there are no poisonous snakes where I live, but it still left me in the minority of living creatures, along with mongooses and Eve whose first instinct was not running away), so I share Wright’s fascination with these beings. Reading and learning more about them was a wonderful experience. Even if you’re afraid of them, give this book a chance. It may just change your mind.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, NetGalley/ Bloomsbury Academic!