'Book of Clever Beasts' Summary

'The Book of Clever Beasts' by Myrtle Reed is a charming collection of stories that poke fun at the trend of writers romanticizing their encounters with nature and claiming to have formed deep bonds with animals. Through a series of whimsical anecdotes, Reed presents a contrasting view, highlighting the inherent cleverness and individuality of animals, particularly a goat named Jagg and a peculiar creature named Little Upsidaisi. The book is filled with gentle humor, emphasizing the delightful quirks and surprising intelligence of these animal characters. The story of Jagg, a mischievous and cunning goat, highlights his ability to outsmart his human companions, while the tale of Little Upsidaisi, a creature whose name suggests a mischievous and unpredictable nature, offers a unique perspective on the beauty and strangeness of the animal world. Through these charming characters, Reed skillfully weaves a tapestry of humor, reminding readers to appreciate the unexpected wisdom and delightful surprises that often reside within the animal kingdom.