Esther Woolfson's writing explores the intricate connections between the urban landscape and the wild, delving into the relationships between humans and the myriad species that inhabit our shared spaces. Her work often touches upon themes of biology, climate change, and the ethics of interspecies interactions. Woolfson challenges conventional boundaries between the arts and sciences, bringing a unique interdisciplinary perspective to her observations. Her prose offers profound insights into the hidden ecosystems and our cohabitation with nature within cities.
Letting her experience speak for itself, Woolfson likens the fears and foibles of corvids to those of humans, taking into account the science of bird intelligence, evolution, song, and flight while also highlighting their big personalities and capacity for affection
The book, originally published by Granta Books in 2013, presents a compelling narrative that explores unique themes and characters. It delves into intricate relationships and societal issues, offering readers an engaging and thought-provoking experience. The author's distinctive voice and style contribute to a rich storytelling that captivates and resonates with audiences.
Scottish writer Esther Woolfson details fascination with corvids, based on experiences with her own pet birds, which includes a rook named Chicken, a talking magpie, a baby crow, a starling, a parrot, and others
A beautifully written and thought-provoking record of a year spent observing the natural world in a city, which looks afresh at our relationship to the weather, the plants and the animals that live in close proximity to us
A landmark new book about the fraught relationship between humans and animals that takes us from Genesis to climate change.