Kendra Coulter’s The Tortoise’s Tale is a beautifully crafted and thought-provoking exploration of the lives of tortoises, blending science, storytelling, and a strong ethical message. Coulter, known for her work in animal studies, brings a deep respect and admiration for her subject, inviting readers to slow down and consider the quiet wisdom and resilience of tortoises.

The book is both informative and emotionally engaging. It offers a detailed look at the biology, behavior, and challenges tortoises face in today’s rapidly changing world. Coulter’s writing is accessible yet profound, making complex topics feel personal and relevant. What stood out most to me was the way she connects the lives of tortoises to broader themes of conservation, empathy, and justice. She encourages readers not just to appreciate these animals, but to reflect on how our actions impact all creatures especially those we tend to overlook.

Personally, I found The Tortoise’s Tale both eye-opening and humbling. It reminded me of the value of slowness, patience, and deep attention in a fast-paced world. This book is not just about tortoises; it’s about how we choose to live alongside other beings. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys nature writing, animal ethics, or simply wants to see the world from a different perspective.

There’s something about talking animals and animal sidekicks in books that I just absolutely love. Get ready to fall in love with tortoises.

A giant tortoise is brought to an estate in California in the early 1900’s, She is the only constant in her ever changing world. Our tortoise friend observes all the people, their descendants, their problems/joys, life events and tragedies. We see human life on this estate unfolding through the tortoises eyes.

Her inner dialogue was fun and sometimes witty, but oh so lovable.
A moving story about a captivating little (or giant) soul.

4.5 stars

Thank you so much NetGalley for this arc. Magic Daisuke the tortoise won my heart.

Absolutely splendid story told by a tortoise! She was Magic from the beginning . A life of love , music and loss …. A beautiful, ugly and tragic journey that we call life. Lucy and Magic were my favorite pairing . I could feel the loss of each of Magic’s friends .

This is the story of a giant tortoise told by a giant tortoise.
Her names have changed over the years-Daisuke, Magic, Shelley, Fernandita….
She has lived many years and fancies herself an observer of history and people.
Daisuke lives on a large California estate..She lives live music, most people, and the animals around her.
Over time the estate changes ownership. It evolves from a family home to a party house to a retreat. Daisuke is there learning everything she can with every transformation.
Daisuke gives the reader her honest assessment of life, music, snacks, and people. She is kind, humble, and always gentle.
This is a story about life, love, heartbreak, and perseverance.
Who knew a giant tortoise could touch my heart and even make me cry?

This was absolutely delightful! It reminded me of Remarkably Bright Creatures. It's perfect for a cozy read but the prose is absolutely stunning. I will recommend this to everyone.

The Tortoise’s Tale is so unique, a plot trait I appreciate. So many times authors look at the formulas that have "worked," and don't go for imagination. The Tortoise's Tale is told from the perspective of a giant tortoise living on an estate for decades. She watches the inhabitants change, and grow, as life changes.

I found myself grinning many times while reading this book.

I loved it.

Thank you to Simon and Schuster as well as NetGalley for a digital ARC of this title in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

#NetGalley #TheTortoisesTale #KendraCoulter #Simon&Schuster

The Tortoise’s Tale is a unique and lyrical read, following a giant tortoise as she observes a century of human history from her California estate. The writing is beautiful, and the perspective is fresh, especially for fans of quiet, reflective storytelling. But like its narrator, the book moves at a slow, meandering pace, and at times, it feels more like a collection of observations than a fully developed plot. Still, if you’re in the mood for something different—thoughtful, whimsical, and a little philosophical—it’s worth checking out.