This session is taking place through ZOOM — please email Michelle Dufort at librarian@graftonpubliclibrary.org for registration and more information.

The Sound of A Wild Snail Eating

In a work that beautifully demonstrates the rewards of closely observing nature, Elisabeth Tova Bailey shares an inspiring and intimate story of her encounter with a Neohelix albolabris—a common woodland snail. While an illness keeps her bedridden, Bailey watches a wild snail that has taken up residence on her nightstand. As a result, she discovers the solace and sense of wonder that this mysterious creature brings and comes to a greater understanding of her own place in the world. Intrigued by the snail’s molluscan anatomy, cryptic defenses, clear decision making, hydraulic locomotion, and courtship activities, Bailey becomes an astute and amused observer, offering a candid and engaging look into the curious life of this underappreciated small animal. The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating is a remarkable journey of survival and resilience, showing us how a small part of the natural world can illuminate our own human existence, while providing an appreciation of what it means to be fully alive.

The library is able to offer copies for borrowing with advance notice, and all participants will be sent a list of questions we’ll use as a guide for our discussions. Although the program is free, we do ask for pre-registration so that we’ll be able to order books and deliver the questions. To register for discussion questions and to reserve a book, send an email directly to Michelle Dufort at: librarian@graftonpubliclibrary.org

Copies of the book can be ordered at the Village Square Bookseller in Bellows Falls (802-463-9404). Mention the Books and Nature Book Group and receive a 10% discount. Place your order ASAP to make sure it arrives in time to read it!