How to Be a Good Creature

About the Author

Sy Montgomery is not just a writer but a passionate advocate for the natural world. Her deep connection with animals has been the driving force behind her prolific career, which spans over two decades. Born in 1958, Montgomery grew up as the daughter of a US Army general, a childhood marked by frequent relocations and the accompanying sense of isolation. However, this transient lifestyle also exposed her to diverse environments and fostered her curiosity about the natural world.

Montgomery's writing is deeply influenced by her extensive travels and encounters with a wide range of animal species, from tarantulas in the rainforests of French Guiana to emus in the Australian outback. Her works, including "The Soul of an Octopus" and "The Good Good Pig", reflect her belief that animals possess an inherent wisdom and emotional depth that humans often overlook. Through her books, Montgomery aims to bridge the gap between humans and animals, encouraging her readers to see the world through the eyes of the creatures she so lovingly portrays.

Montgomery’s dedication to her craft has earned her numerous accolades, including a finalist position for the National Book Award and widespread acclaim for her ability to convey the emotional and spiritual connections between humans and animals. Her writing is not just about animals; it is about what it means to be truly alive, to connect with the world on a fundamental level, and to find meaning in the most unexpected places.

Main Idea

In "How to Be a Good Creature," Sy Montgomery offers a deeply personal and transformative exploration of the lessons she has learned from the animals that have been part of her life. The book is structured around a series of encounters with different animals, each of which taught her something profound about life, love, and what it means to be a good creature. Montgomery argues that animals have much to teach us if we are willing to listen, observe, and open our hearts to their wisdom.

The central theme of the book is the idea that animals are not just companions or subjects of study, but teachers and guides who can help us navigate the complexities of life. Montgomery’s narrative weaves together stories of love, loss, forgiveness, and resilience, all seen through the lens of her relationships with animals. These creatures, from her beloved pet pig Christopher to a wild ermine that stole one of her chickens, have shaped her understanding of the world and her place within it.

Through her vivid storytelling, Montgomery invites readers to reflect on their own connections with animals and the natural world, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the creatures that share our planet. The book is a call to embrace empathy, compassion, and a sense of wonder—qualities that, according to Montgomery, make us better creatures in the truest sense of the word.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: The Power of Animals
2. Molly the Scottish Terrier: A Lesson in Wildness
3. The Australian Emus: Finding a Calling
4. Clarabelle the Tarantula: Overcoming Fear
5. The Chicken-Stealing Ermine: Forgiveness and Empathy
6. Tess and Sally: Lessons in Love
7. Christopher the Pig: Building a Community
8. Conclusion: How to Be a Good Creature

Introduction: The Power of Animals

Sy Montgomery begins her memoir with a powerful reflection on the unique role that animals play in our lives. She describes them as teachers, companions, and sources of inspiration who offer us insights into the human condition that we might otherwise miss. According to Montgomery, animals possess a wisdom that is often overlooked by humans who see them as lesser beings. Yet, it is precisely through these creatures that we can learn how to live more fully and authentically.

Montgomery’s introduction sets the tone for the rest of the book, establishing the idea that the relationships we form with animals are just as significant as those we form with people. These relationships have the power to transform us, teaching us important life lessons about love, loss, and the interconnectedness of all living things. For Montgomery, being a good creature means recognizing the value of these relationships and allowing them to shape our understanding of the world.

Molly the Scottish Terrier: A Lesson in Wildness

Molly, the spirited Scottish Terrier who was Montgomery’s first close animal companion, is introduced as a figure of wildness and independence. From a young age, Montgomery was captivated by Molly’s fierce hunting instincts, her self-sufficiency, and her unyielding confidence. Molly’s wild spirit was a source of fascination for Montgomery, who saw in her dog a reflection of the untamed world she longed to explore.

"Molly embodied the wild spirit that lives in every creature, a reminder that beneath our layers of civilization, we too are part of nature." – Sy Montgomery

This chapter explores the idea that even domesticated animals retain a sense of wildness—a connection to their ancestors that remains intact despite human intervention. Molly’s independence and hunting prowess served as a reminder to Montgomery that all creatures, including humans, are part of the natural world. This realization fueled Montgomery’s desire to connect more deeply with animals and to understand the wildness within herself.

Molly’s influence extended beyond mere fascination. She taught Montgomery about the importance of respecting the natural instincts of animals and recognizing their individuality. By observing Molly’s behavior, Montgomery learned that animals are not just pets or companions but sentient beings with their own desires, fears, and motivations. This lesson would later shape Montgomery’s approach to studying and writing about animals, as she sought to capture the essence of each creature she encountered.