A Book Review of The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating

A small pet is often an excellent companion. -– Florence Nightinggale

The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating by Elisabeth Tova Bailey is an intriguing little book.  I found it hiding amidst many a bigger volume in the non-fiction science section and was immediately drawn to its cover.  With a dark-lettered title against a pale blue background, a quaint painted snail climbing over the words, and a reviewer’s quote of “Beautiful” at the top, the little book jumped in my bag.  And I’m glad it did.

It’s the tale of a woman and a snail.  How a tiny creature gave a bedridden patient company, focus and gratitude throughout a long, debilitating illness.  The book is a combination of the author’s observations of a snail that lived beside her bed, and the insights and lessons that came forth from her experience.  Also woven throughout are quotes from 19^th century naturalists, as well as fascinating research that the author learned about her mollusk companion.  And though the author’s references to the evolution of snails are frequent, I chuckle over them and, instead, praise our Amazing Creator for the incredibly intricate traits He lovingly and thoughtfully designed in the little creatures we call snails.