"Witty, sharp, sensual, possessed of a scientist's eye for the precise detail, the memorable image. Elisavietta Ritchie is in love with the natural world of maggot, freezing bilge, the owl...on unheard wings," "berries fed on ash and blood," "branches with lavender fire." She brings a tuned ear for the music of language, a storyteller's gift and a generosity of spirit that delights as it informs. Her books deserve an enthusiastic audience." Colette Inez, The Woman who Loved Worms, Horseplay, and other books.