Animal People

Stephen is having the worst day of his life. On a stiflingly hot summer morning, he has decided it’s time to break up with his girlfriend Fiona. He’s 39, aimless and unfulfilled, but without a clue how to make his life better. All he has are his instincts – and they may be his downfall. Making his way through the pitiless city and the hours of a single day, Stephen must endure another shift of his dead-end job at Sydney zoo, fend off the relentless demands of his family, and face up to Fiona’s aggressive ex-husband. As an ordinary day unravels into an existential crisis, Stephen begins to understand – perhaps too late – that love is not a trap, and only he can free himself. > "Charlotte Wood is one of our finest and most chameleonic writers . . . This > is a beautiful, resounding tale of an ordinary man flailing. It's superb > storytelling" ― The Australian > "This is a compelling and ultimately moving novel that cements Wood's place as > one of the most intelligent and compassionate novelists in Australia" ― The > Age > > "Wood is a consummate observer of the human condition" ― Australian Book > > Review > "Wood's books are an intimately rendered portrait of contemporary Australia > and, as such, prompt readers to think about some of this country's real > issues" ― Sunday Tasmanian > "It made me laugh and cry. What more could you ask for?" ― Readings Monthly