Mouth of the Donkey

“Insightful, authentic, and truly original. Laura Duhan-Kaplan skillfully weaves ancient stories with insights from the lives of animals in the world around us, showing how people can learn lessons of coexistence and sustainability.”


—Jill Hammer, author of The Jewish Book of Days: A Companion for All Seasons





“According to scripture, humans are created to be with animals. They greatly outnumber us, and they make our living possible, but we scarcely think deeply about it. Read Laura Duhan-Kaplan’s book and be reminded that we have much to gain by giving animals the attention they deserve. Mouth of the Donkey will open your mind and, hopefully, your heart.”


—Norman Wirzba, professor and senior fellow, Kenan Institute for Ethics, Duke University Divinity School





“Skillfully balancing the work of scholar, writer, creative rabbinic reader and, as she labels herself, ‘urban naturalist,’ Laura Duhan-Kaplan offers us enlightening and delightful insights into biblical animals. This book opens our eyes and ears to what biblical animals can teach us.”


—Natan Margalit, founder, Organic Torah