Wry, funny, harrowing, and occasionally tender, Poovey casts a wide net, writing of apes and entomologists, neglected mothers and newlyweds, do-gooders and dictators with insight, verve, and empathy. Alternating between the comic and the horrific, these tales transcend geographic boundaries and elude current genres: they are universal stories—akin to fables—about people in conflict with their worst selves, told with urgency and aplomb.—Felica Von Faassburgerer; author, activist, professional dream interpreter, certified airline dietician, and suspected cat burglar.