| The Animal-Speak is a remarkable guidebook. Even if some readers do not feel altogether comfortable with the idea of telepathy with animals (much less humans), The knowledge about animals author Ted Andrews shares nonetheless is invaluable. Andrews has written more than two dozen books (including ANIMAL-SPEAK and ANIMAL-WISE). Andrews says wild animals have much to teach us and that through our bonds with pets or domesticated animals, we can become more aware or and tie into the intelligence that binds all nature. Animals can help us become more human and less mechanistic. Each of the book's 10 chapters explores different aspects of the relationships of human to animal and animal to animal. If you are a skeptic about the depth of communication possible with the animal kingdom, personal stories such as Andrews' encounter with a barracuda show there are eminently practical aspects of such interactions. The chapter on animal communication and telepathy offers common-sense insights, and Andrews' also covers shamanic quests, spirit masks, shapeshifting and medicine shields. Andrews does not try to be cute in his exploration of human-animal relations. While the book is not rich in children's stories that are understandable by the very young, there is no doubt that even preteens can benefit enormously from key chapters, such as "The Power of Domestic Animals", because most children have direct experience with pets at home or with animals on a farm. Andrews' rich insights and deep respect for the natures of our animal friends will serve members of that young audience well as they grow up to become Earth stewards. The book includes an excellent reference-guide appendix to the meanings of birds, mammals, insects, reptiles, amphibians, and sea creatures to assist readers in utilizing the wisdom the text contains. |
