animals in literature

In Aesop's Animals, zoologist Jo Wimpenny turns a critical eye to the fables and ask whether there is any scientific truth to Aesop's portrayal of his animals. She brings the tales into the twenty-first century, introducing the latest scientific research on some of the most fascinating topics in animal behavior. Each chapter focuses on a different fable and a different topic in ethology, including future planning, tool use, self-recognition, cooperation and deception. At the end of each chapter, the author pulls together the evidence to assess whether Aesop's portrayal of the animals holds true from a modern, scientific perspective.

"In The Farmer and His Sons, Aesop and his troupe teach their audience about the value of a hard days work. They learn that hard work is its own reward."--Provided by publisher.

Provides background on the life of American author Jack London and the influences that shaped his life, and features essays that explore wildness as portrayed in his novel "The Call of the Wild.".

Provides background on the life of American author Jack London and the influences that shaped his life, and features essays that explore wildness as portrayed in his novel "The Call of the Wild.".

"In The Milk Woman and Her Pail, Aesop and his troupe teach their audience not to get carried away with fantasies. Aesop learns that he may be disappointed if he counts on getting something before he has it."--Provided by publisher.

"In The Goose and the Golden Egg, Aesop and his troupe teach their audience to appreciate what they have. Aesop learns that when he is greedy, he ends up with nothing."--Provided by publisher.

Collects works of art and literature from all eras and cultures that explore the complex link between humans and animals.

"In The Lion and the Mouse, Aesop and his troupe teach their audience that even the toughest creatures sometimes need a helping hand, and that help may come from unexpected places."--Provided by publisher.