39 pages • 1 hour read
Sy MontgomeryThe Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2015A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In The Soul of an Octopus, Sy Montgomery investigates octopus intelligence and consciousness after encounters at the New England Aquarium, learning about their distinct physiology and forming bonds with them, particularly Octavia, Kali, and Karma, while also meeting staff and volunteers. The book includes themes of animal mortality.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Sy Montgomery's The Soul of an Octopus offers a profound and captivating exploration of octopus intelligence and marine life. Readers praised its engaging storytelling and thorough research, while some noted a slow pace in parts. Overall, it provides a thought-provoking look at animal consciousness, making it a worthwhile read for nature enthusiasts.
Who Should Read The Soul of an Octopus?
Ideal for readers captivated by marine biology, animal intelligence, and emotional depth in nature writing, The Soul of an Octopus appeals to enthusiasts of Sy Montgomery's engaging, humane storytelling. Fans of Rachel Carson's The Sea Around Us or Helen Macdonald's H is for Hawk will find it similarly mesmerizing.