the Soul of an Octopus - Nat'l Book Award Finalist Non-fiction by Sy Montgomery

Sy Montgomery (b Germany 1958) is a both a naturalist & writer of fiction & non-fiction for adults & children.  Her writing & life's work have garnered many literary honors; a Nat'l Book Award nomination for "the Soul of an Octopus" and awards for advocating the protection of animals.  Sy's background is in journalism and psychology.  She's not a marine biologist, zoologist or scientist.  Needless, Sy possesses a profound curiosity and awe of aquatic and animal creatures.  Her talent for writing reflects her own journey, observations and responses that connect with the reader in a compelling and straightforward style.  Sy is synonymous with Ariel (in reverse) "Ready to know...ask em my questions and get some answers.  Would I love to explore...Wish I could be part of that world." (Ashman/Menken).  Sy's enthusiasm to learn and explore are infectious & expansive.  Why did she choose to learn about octopuses and their worlds?  We discover alongside Sy about "... an animal with venom like a snake, a beak like a parrot and ink like an old fashioned pen.  It can weigh as much as a man and stretch as long as a car.  Yet it can pour its baggy; boneless body through an opening the size of an orange.  It can change color and shape.  It can taste with its skin.  Most fascinating of all... octopuses are smart."  This is a thrilling odyssey of discovery stemming from Sy's co-existing intimately with several different octopuses contained within a well cared for public aquarium and delving into their natural habitats.  Sy wisely shares the inputs & reactions she garners from trained staff, volunteers and visitors to the aquarium which adds layers of wonder and appreciation for these fascinating creatures.   We learn about scuba diving as Sy begins her training as a novice and advances to exotic underwater locations to observe octopuses and aquatic life.  Sy notes "To share such moments of deep tranquility with another being, especially one as different from us...is a humbling privilege."  "The Soul of an Octopus" is an immensely rewarding read.  The reader discovers that animals and not just mammals and birds are capable of learning, recognizing individuals and responding to kindness.  This beautiful book teaches us about the lives of octopuses and fathoms curiosity, compassion and empathy.