Animal Court

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“A fascinating story with memorable anthropomorphized animals and important environmental messages, a commendable work for Zaragoza.”

Animal Court is a modern fable, in which wildlife from around the world turn the tables on humans. Set in an African jungle, the animals take to trial one man whose global conglomerate has destroyed habitats, polluted waters, and pushed animal, insect, marine, and plant species closer to endangerment and extinction. How will animals serve justice if the jury finds the defendant guilty beyond all reasonable doubt?

In a jungle clearing, wildlife species witness a landmark trial of animals vs humans. Three judges—Cesar Lion, Bernard Bear, and Darrell Dolphin—preside over the trial of a wealthy prince for deforestation, water pollution, animal poaching, and other crimes. Prosecutor Abel Wolf and Defense Attorney Kane Snake examine and cross-examine witnesses in a variety of species. Lillian Leopard covers the proceedings for ANN, Animal News Network, and Lucy Ladybug leads the animal jury.  Following closing arguments, the judges instruct the jury on their deliberations. The verdict the jury delivers is a surprising sentencing option.

Reviews

I just finished reading Animal Court and found it delightfully written, and I got drawn into it immediately. The animals came alive in my mind, and the dialogue made me forget it wasn’t a real courtroom drama. Every classroom would do well to include it as mandatory reading. And send a copy to all their families. – Joyce Bolender

Literary Titan Review – May 24, 2024

Animal Court by Pablo Omar Zaragoza and Susan Giffin is a modern fable set in an African jungle where animals reign supreme. They convene a trial for humans, focusing on a man whose group has caused extensive environmental damage. The wildlife—including insects, marine life, and plants—serve as witnesses and jury, deliberating over the appropriate justice for humanity’s transgressions against nature. The story delves into themes of environmental protection, justice, and compassion, culminating in a surprising yet thoughtful sentence that underscores a nuanced approach to punishment.

This compelling and imaginative tale masterfully combines entertainment with a potent environmental message. The portrayal of animals adds depth and relatability, allowing readers to empathize with their plight. The author’s skill in weaving contemporary environmental issues into the narrative is commendable, effectively raising awareness in an engaging manner. One of the book’s notable strengths is its unique premise—animals holding humans accountable for ecological destruction. This inventive approach prompts readers to reflect on humanity’s impact on the natural world.

The courtroom drama is exceptionally well-crafted, with testimonies from various creatures that are both touching and thought-provoking. However, the book does have its drawbacks. At times, the animals’ governance feels somewhat contrived, and the narrative can occasionally seem moralistic. Some readers might find the message overly direct, preferring a subtler delivery.

Animal Court is a heartwarming and enlightening story that encourages readers to think critically about the importance of environmental stewardship. Its appeal spans both young and adult audiences, making it an excellent choice for family reading. This modern fable not only entertains but also inspires a deeper appreciation for the natural world and our responsibility to protect it.

SPECIAL FIVE-STAR REVIEW

 From an eight-year-old California reader

 Hello. My name is Preston. I am finishing second grade.

I love books, especially books about animals.

Animal Court is kind of a different story about animals.

Fictional animals tell their story themselves.

We learn about the conflict between animals and man.

These characters believe they are being abused by man.

Guns injure and kill.

The setting for the story is Africa.

The main characters are animals instead of people.

The theme of the book is universal: Man abuses animals.

The authors believe animals deserve better treatment and man’s love.

The author raises many questions.

First, man kills for sport. Why is this not illegal?

If we cannot kill humans [without punishment],

why is it okay to kill animals?

I was honored to speak to the author.

Just visit his website.

I asked him about where he finds his ideas for books.

I learned he writes every day.

His computer is not far away.

Ideas flow.

Animal Court gets five stars.

I learned that animals and man must learn to live together.

Love is good for both.

Five Stars – Fun read

Neat concept and very well written while covering a needed issue. The characters are cleverly presented, and, agree or disagree with the issues, it makes you think. – Ginger, Goodreads

Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers’ Favorite

“The greatest human failure is to assume animals have no feelings. The human shortcoming is the inability to put themselves in our paws or feet or wings or fins.” In Animal Court by Pablo Omar Zaragoza, Prince Khari Folami is a middle-aged African billionaire and CEO of a global conglomerate, United Oil & Refinery. While on the way to confront an animal rights’ group who are protesting on his property, his helicopter is shot down and crashes into the jungle. When he wakes up, he finds himself in a landmark trial like no other; a court of the animal kingdom. Almost every animal of different species that are affected by the environmental devastations caused by United Oil’s activities—directly or otherwise—will testify against him. Is there hope for the billionaire prince?

“Set in central Africa, Pablo Omar Zaragoza’s Animal Court has a unique and intriguing premise. With its fast-paced plot, the story is engaging from start to finish. Despite the serious environmental issues as its central theme, there are funny moments and some of them are provided by the anthropomorphized animals themselves, particularly the one called Alan Ant. It’s interesting that the prince’s attorney is a snake; Attorney Kane Snake to be precise. Strangely, I find it’s the apt animal to defend a human in an animal court, especially one who has committed crimes against nature. Unsurprisingly, Kane Snake is an impressive attorney. A fascinating story with memorable characters and important environmental messages, this is a commendable work from Zaragoza.”

2019 Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards