One-Sentence Summary
In How to Be a Living Thing, author Mari Andrew uses meditations on animals, from orcas to rats, to argue that humans can better understand themselves and embrace their own imperfect, authentic "living-thing-ness" by recognizing shared truths within the natural world.
About the Author
Mari Andrew is a writer and illustrator, and the New York Times bestselling author of Am I There Yet? and My Inner Sky. She is known for her insightful and empathetic essays and illustrations, which are also featured in this book.
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Theme 2: Redefining Value and Embracing "The Other"
The book challenges societal definitions of intelligence, productivity, and success, urging us to widen our circle of compassion.
Orcas
Recognizing that "striving" is essential to happiness and that convenience is not joy, just as orcas suffer from stress and "profound boredom" in an "easy" but unchallenged tank.
Rats
Interrogating our rejection of "the other" or the "disgusting." Rats are actually intelligent, empathetic (they rescue trapped companions), and playful (they play hide-and-seek and "giggle"). Our disgust for them may reflect a fear of our own "shadow" selves.
Pigeons & Donkeys
Challenging the societal obsession with "usefulness." We often judge animals or people by whether they can serve us, ignoring their inherent wisdom and worth. We despise pigeons because they are no longer "useful", and we deem donkeys "stubborn" only because they, unlike horses, prioritize their own safety over our commands.
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Theme 3: Finding Connection and Meaning in Commitment, Grief, and Resilience
Andrew explores how we navigate life's challenges through community, facing loss, and creating meaning.
Gorillas
Recognizing that pain and grief are universal languages that cross species. Koko the gorilla grieved her lost kitten with "mournful hooting."
Zebras & Gibbons
Seeing the radical power of community and commitment. Zebras depend on the herd for survival, "fiercely defending one another." Gibbons create a "duet" as the cornerstone of their life-long bond. In our "disposable" culture, commitment is the antidote to loneliness.
Crocodiles
Believing in new life after destruction. Crocodiles survived and adapted after the "end of the world" that killed the dinosaurs. This reminds us that our personal "ends of the world" (like loss or heartbreak) are also opportunities for new beginnings.
Mourning Doves & Humans
Holding on to hope and "trying again." After their nest is destroyed, mourning doves return to the same spot to rebuild. This represents the "sacred Maybe." Ultimately, the author (citing Julian of Norwich) asserts that human nature is inherently good, that we are all a sacred part of nature, and that "All shall be well."
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💡 Actionable Advice
01
Practice "Human-ing"
When you make a mistake or feel lost, remind yourself that this is just part of "human-ing." Be as patient and gentle with yourself as you would be with a pet, rather than self-critical.
02
Observe Consciously
Spend a few minutes each day truly observing a non-human creature—whether it's a bird outside your window, an ant on the sidewalk, or your pet. Notice their behaviors without rushing to judge, just witness.
03
Question "Usefulness"
Notice when you judge yourself, other people, or animals (like rats or pigeons) based on their "usefulness." Practice extending compassion and respect to beings that don't fit the conventional mold of "productivity."
04
Embrace the "Sacred Maybe"
When you experience a failure or loss like the mourning doves, resist the despair of "Never." Allow yourself to sit in the "Maybe"—maybe this will work next time, maybe you can try again.
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📚 Further Reading
1
My Inner Sky by Mari Andrew
The author's previous book, which also blends personal essays and illustrations to explore finding light and meaning in dark times.
2
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
A profound work that blends Indigenous wisdom, scientific knowledge, and personal reflection to explore a reciprocal relationship with the natural world.
3
The Inner Life of Animals by Peter Wohlleben
This book explores the complex emotional and intellectual lives of animals, echoing Andrew's points on animal grief, compassion, and intelligence.
4
Pests: How Humans Create Animal Villains by Bethany Brookshire
If you were particularly interested in the chapters on rats and pigeons, this book takes a deep dive into why we've come to despise certain animals.
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