Doing Animal Studies with Androids, Aliens, and Ghosts: Defamiliarizing Human-Nonhuman Animal Relationships in Fiction

David P. Rando delves into a unique intersection of literature and animal studies, examining how fiction can reshape perceptions of human-nonhuman animal relationships. By employing unconventional perspectives, such as those of androids, aliens, and ghosts, Rando invites readers to re-evaluate their understanding of the bonds that connect humans and other species. This innovative approach encourages a deeper exploration of identity, difference, and the ethical dimensions of these relationships.

Throughout the work, Rando analyzes various literary texts, revealing how these imaginative narratives challenge traditional views and open up new avenues for empathy and understanding. The blending of speculative elements with critical theory provides a refreshing lens through which to engage with contemporary issues surrounding animals and their representation in literature.

As Rando defamiliarizes familiar tropes, readers are prompted to reconsider their preconceived notions of agency and belonging. This thought-provoking examination serves as both a scholarly reflection and a call to action, highlighting the importance of re-imagining our connections with the world around us.