I got this softcover from Barnes and Noble. It's a charming and thoughtful account of the author's long period of enforced bed-rest during illness, and of her growing fondness for a snail that a friend had found in the woods and brought to the patient in a pot of violets. The natural history of snails is touched on, from the author's observations of her new companion; she hasn't much energy but does try to provide it with a comfortable habitat and suitable food, though some of the experiments in this vein don't go well. [Happy spoiler: the snail survives to the end of the story, when it's returned to the wild. I found that a tremendous relief!]

The book's generally quiet and contemplative, with moments of humor and occasional nods to the immense pressure of prolonged illness and restricted living - something that any of us might suffer without warning.

I loved the way the snail became a personality, not just to the author but to her friends, especially when offspring come into the picture. But even the tiny moments - that first instant when the author realized that she could hear the snail chewing on leaves - are wonderful!

I plan to leave this book in or near the Prince and the Pauper restaurant while stopping by for dinner this evening. Hope the finder enjoys the book!

[See other recent releases in VT here.]

*** Released for the 2018 September Sapphire release challenge, for the mostly-blue cover. ***

*** Released for the 2018 You're Such an Animal release challenge. ***

Found downtown near the Prince and the Pauper restaurant

I was pleasantly surprised at how engaging this book was. The authors ability to intertwine her own life experience with that of a snail was impressive and made for a great read on a plane. I left the book at the Banff National Park Museum, among loads of wildlife information and specimen(sadly no snails!). I do have to admit though, after trying to take the best care of the book, I foolishly left the book on the roof of the car on the way to the museum. It flew off but I ran back and got it. Luckily it only suffered some dirty marks and a few bent pages. Sorry @GoryDetails