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Animal Listeners: The Awakening of Quinby Clark
A contemporary fantasy novel set in Australia where a hidden society of people can speak with animals.
For ages 11 to 111
"Engaging multispecies characters headline a tale that’s both insightful and diverting." - Kirkus Reviews
"I can honestly say I loved every bit of it as there is a real mystery/thriller aspect to the plot and it's so well written ... all ages would love it" - Dr Catherine, Australian Veterinary Surgeon, Facebook Review
“Harry Potter meets Captain Planet meets Dr Doolittle.” - Abigail, Goodreads Review
Animals are speaking. Who is Listening?
When Quinby Clark has a conversation with a bird, she thinks she’s going crazy. But when a dog invites her to attend a mysterious Australian boarding school for people who can speak with animals, she realises her dreams of escaping her awful family are finally coming true.
Thrust into the secret society of Animal Listeners, Quinby discovers she can speak with more animals than anyone else – a fact the school asks her to keep hidden to protect them all from covert factions. After Quinby is wrongfully accused of causing trouble, she and her new friends must prove her innocence while rescuing precious animals. The world desperately needs her extraordinary Abilities, but will Quinby even survive the school year?
With menacing factions and lurking danger, being the most gifted Animal Listener isn’t always a gift.
A captivating read for anyone who loves animals.
Join Quinby as she explores the magic of the Animal Listener community hidden within our own world, at a boarding school nestled in the Australian bush by a sandy beach. Meet fantastic animal characters including wildlife like kangaroos, koalas and dolphins; plus the school family of bossy cats and loveable pigs.
An adventure for adults, teens and tweens alike.
What reviewers are saying:
“Wonderful book for any animal lover!”
“Unputdownable and Wildly Imaginative”
“Must read!”
“R. Aveen is now one of my favorite authors”
“If you are not much of a reader, this might get you hooked on reading.”
“resonates with animal-lovers of all ages”
“Compelling story full of heart”
“riveted from the start”
“Love the creativity and female hero”
“I can’t stop thinking about Animal Listeners”
“A heartfelt journey into the animal world—laugh, cry, and fall in love with Quinby’s story”
“A Captivating Tale of Adventure, Connection, and Empowerment”
“Fascinating” “thought-provoking” “inspiring” “phenomenal read”
For ages 11 to 111
"Engaging multispecies characters headline a tale that’s both insightful and diverting." - Kirkus Reviews
"I can honestly say I loved every bit of it as there is a real mystery/thriller aspect to the plot and it's so well written ... all ages would love it" - Dr Catherine, Australian Veterinary Surgeon, Facebook Review
“Harry Potter meets Captain Planet meets Dr Doolittle.” - Abigail, Goodreads Review
Animals are speaking. Who is Listening?
When Quinby Clark has a conversation with a bird, she thinks she’s going crazy. But when a dog invites her to attend a mysterious Australian boarding school for people who can speak with animals, she realises her dreams of escaping her awful family are finally coming true.
Thrust into the secret society of Animal Listeners, Quinby discovers she can speak with more animals than anyone else – a fact the school asks her to keep hidden to protect them all from covert factions. After Quinby is wrongfully accused of causing trouble, she and her new friends must prove her innocence while rescuing precious animals. The world desperately needs her extraordinary Abilities, but will Quinby even survive the school year?
With menacing factions and lurking danger, being the most gifted Animal Listener isn’t always a gift.
A captivating read for anyone who loves animals.
Join Quinby as she explores the magic of the Animal Listener community hidden within our own world, at a boarding school nestled in the Australian bush by a sandy beach. Meet fantastic animal characters including wildlife like kangaroos, koalas and dolphins; plus the school family of bossy cats and loveable pigs.
An adventure for adults, teens and tweens alike.
What reviewers are saying:
“Wonderful book for any animal lover!”
“Unputdownable and Wildly Imaginative”
“Must read!”
“R. Aveen is now one of my favorite authors”
“If you are not much of a reader, this might get you hooked on reading.”
“resonates with animal-lovers of all ages”
“Compelling story full of heart”
“riveted from the start”
“Love the creativity and female hero”
“I can’t stop thinking about Animal Listeners”
“A heartfelt journey into the animal world—laugh, cry, and fall in love with Quinby’s story”
“A Captivating Tale of Adventure, Connection, and Empowerment”
“Fascinating” “thought-provoking” “inspiring” “phenomenal read”
- GenresFantasy
478 pages, Paperback
Published September 22, 2024
8 people are currently reading
5617 people want to read
About the author
R. Aveen
1 book35 followersOriginally from Sydney, Australia, R.Aveen now lives in Northern Michigan, USA, with her husband and two cats, Stephen and Caramel (rescue cats who rescued her from long, lonely winters).
She came up with the idea for this book when still in Australia and chose the south coast locale as it wasn't too far from where she was living. But she started writing the novel in 2020 when already residing in America, which made taking research trips exceedingly difficult. She mostly used memories and the wonders of the internet – luckily, she enjoys doing research. She even took an Animal Behavior course at her local university to help write the animal characters.
R.Aveen loves reading - especially contemporary fantasy with a splash of magic and mystery ;) - animals, nature, bushwalking, the beach, movies, hanging out with friends, adventure, travelling and eating delicious vegan food. She is passionate about wildlife conservation and the environment.
"Animal Listeners: The Awakening of Quinby Clark" is her debut novel. As well as the usual copy edit and proofread, to ensure authenticity and accuracy, R.Aveen also hired an Australian First Nations Cultural sensitivity editor, a Deaf Consultant, and an Australian veterinarian – with very positive feedback from everyone.
Visit R.Aveen at animallisteners.com to stay in touch.
She came up with the idea for this book when still in Australia and chose the south coast locale as it wasn't too far from where she was living. But she started writing the novel in 2020 when already residing in America, which made taking research trips exceedingly difficult. She mostly used memories and the wonders of the internet – luckily, she enjoys doing research. She even took an Animal Behavior course at her local university to help write the animal characters.
R.Aveen loves reading - especially contemporary fantasy with a splash of magic and mystery ;) - animals, nature, bushwalking, the beach, movies, hanging out with friends, adventure, travelling and eating delicious vegan food. She is passionate about wildlife conservation and the environment.
"Animal Listeners: The Awakening of Quinby Clark" is her debut novel. As well as the usual copy edit and proofread, to ensure authenticity and accuracy, R.Aveen also hired an Australian First Nations Cultural sensitivity editor, a Deaf Consultant, and an Australian veterinarian – with very positive feedback from everyone.
Visit R.Aveen at animallisteners.com to stay in touch.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
November 15, 2024
Animal Listeners is Book 1 in The Awakening of Quinby Clark by R Aveen. I felt that this book was well written and I enjoyed the inner actions between humans and animals. 11 year old Quinby has awakened to understanding animals and is very gifted. Her family is unloving and when she is allowed to attend boarding school she is so happy to be away from her family. Not everything is great st the school, but, Quinby makes friends and grows. I did find the book to be a little bit long, but, the story was very interesting. I received an arc.for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
October 12, 2024
"Animal Listeners: The Awakening of Quinby Clark" is a phenomenal read, and not just for kids! The writing is a fantastic mix of age-appropriate Australian dialogue, and caring considerations on animal welfare and climate. R.Aveen builds a rich world filled with lore, community, and non-human friends, which sucks in the reader from the first chapter. I felt like I was chatting with megabats in the Australian bush! A phenomenal debut novel, I'm looking forward to more of Quinby's adventures.
January 10, 2025
I can’t stop thinking about Animal Listeners... From the moment I picked it up, I was pulled into Quinby’s world, one in which I didn’t want to leave. This book is more than a story; it’s an invitation to experience the wonder of nature, the thrill of discovering who you are, and the incredible gift of being able to connect with animals in ways most of us can only dream about.
Quinby is the kind of character you can’t help but love. She’s brave, curious, and sometimes unsure of herself in a way that feels so real. Watching her grow, learning to trust her instincts and embrace the rare gift that sets her apart, was inspiring. I found myself cheering for her, laughing with her, and even holding my breath as she faced challenges that would make anyone crumble. Quinby doesn’t just have the ability to communicate with animals; she has the heart to truly listen to them, and that’s what makes her so special.
And then there’s the school. Oh, the school. Who wouldn’t want to be whisked away to a secret place where only a chosen few are allowed, tucked deep in the Australian bush? It’s the kind of setting that makes you feel like magic really does exist. The author describes it so vividly I could almost hear the sound of the waves on the nearby beach and feel the stillness of the forest surrounding it. The school is full of mystery and wonder, from the quirky animal residents to the bonds Quinby builds with her classmates. The sense of belonging that Quinby finds there, despite the secrets and challenges, is something that stayed with me long after I finished the book.
What really amazed me was how the author brought the idea of talking to animals to life. It wasn’t just about saying words—it was about understanding, respecting, and building trust with creatures who have their own stories and wisdom. I couldn’t help but wonder what it would be like to have that kind of connection with animals in my own life. The way Quinby’s gift unfolds, revealing new depths and dangers, kept me hooked.
And let’s not forget the intrigue. There’s a real sense of mystery woven into the story, with just enough twists and turns to keep you guessing. At its core, though, this is a story about Quinby discovering her place in the world, not just as someone with an extraordinary gift, but as a person who has to figure out how to stand up for what’s right, even when it’s hard.
Animal Listeners isn’t just a book for kids and young adults. It’s for anyone who’s ever dreamed of a deeper connection with nature, or who’s ever felt like they didn’t quite fit in until they found the people (or animals) who understood them. It’s the kind of story that makes you believe in magic... not the kind with wands or spells, but the quiet, powerful magic that happens when you open your heart to the world around you.
I’m already hoping there’s a sequel because I’m not ready to say goodbye to Quinby, her friends, or the amazing world in which they inhabit. This book reminded me that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones that help us see the beauty and mystery that’s already all around us.
Quinby is the kind of character you can’t help but love. She’s brave, curious, and sometimes unsure of herself in a way that feels so real. Watching her grow, learning to trust her instincts and embrace the rare gift that sets her apart, was inspiring. I found myself cheering for her, laughing with her, and even holding my breath as she faced challenges that would make anyone crumble. Quinby doesn’t just have the ability to communicate with animals; she has the heart to truly listen to them, and that’s what makes her so special.
And then there’s the school. Oh, the school. Who wouldn’t want to be whisked away to a secret place where only a chosen few are allowed, tucked deep in the Australian bush? It’s the kind of setting that makes you feel like magic really does exist. The author describes it so vividly I could almost hear the sound of the waves on the nearby beach and feel the stillness of the forest surrounding it. The school is full of mystery and wonder, from the quirky animal residents to the bonds Quinby builds with her classmates. The sense of belonging that Quinby finds there, despite the secrets and challenges, is something that stayed with me long after I finished the book.
What really amazed me was how the author brought the idea of talking to animals to life. It wasn’t just about saying words—it was about understanding, respecting, and building trust with creatures who have their own stories and wisdom. I couldn’t help but wonder what it would be like to have that kind of connection with animals in my own life. The way Quinby’s gift unfolds, revealing new depths and dangers, kept me hooked.
And let’s not forget the intrigue. There’s a real sense of mystery woven into the story, with just enough twists and turns to keep you guessing. At its core, though, this is a story about Quinby discovering her place in the world, not just as someone with an extraordinary gift, but as a person who has to figure out how to stand up for what’s right, even when it’s hard.
Animal Listeners isn’t just a book for kids and young adults. It’s for anyone who’s ever dreamed of a deeper connection with nature, or who’s ever felt like they didn’t quite fit in until they found the people (or animals) who understood them. It’s the kind of story that makes you believe in magic... not the kind with wands or spells, but the quiet, powerful magic that happens when you open your heart to the world around you.
I’m already hoping there’s a sequel because I’m not ready to say goodbye to Quinby, her friends, or the amazing world in which they inhabit. This book reminded me that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones that help us see the beauty and mystery that’s already all around us.
January 16, 2025
Animal Listeners is an absolutely captivating read! I enjoyed immersing myself in the vivid and imaginative world that R. Aveen created. The story strikes a perfect balance between suspense and feel-good moments, keeping me hooked while leaving me uplifted and feeling empowered to make positive change in the world by the end. One week after finishing this novel, my mind is still drifting back to its world. The story has a way of lingering with you in the best ways, inviting reflection on its themes days after turning the last page.
I’m eagerly awaiting the next book in the series. I can’t wait to see how Quinby’s life unfolds and what she and her friends do with their remarkable gifts for communicating with animals, paired with their deep compassion for them.
The character development is outstanding, and I appreciated how the book combined an entertaining and emotionally engaging story with important themes. One of the standout elements of this novel is how it gently educates readers about the mistreatment of animals, weaving this message into a compelling narrative that encourages readers to believe they can make a difference. Beyond its focus on animal welfare, the story also explores broader ideas of activism and how to challenge and change broken systems; topics that feel especially relevant in today’s world.
In some ways, this novel reminds me of Kim Stanley Robinson's Ministry for the Future, as both books skillfully intertwine innovative ideas for positive change in the face of challenges like climate change and social injustice.
This is a thought-provoking read that I would recommend to both young and older readers alike. Whether you're passionate about animal welfare, seeking inspiration to create positive change, or simply looking for a story that will keep you on your toes, this book delivers.
I’m eagerly awaiting the next book in the series. I can’t wait to see how Quinby’s life unfolds and what she and her friends do with their remarkable gifts for communicating with animals, paired with their deep compassion for them.
The character development is outstanding, and I appreciated how the book combined an entertaining and emotionally engaging story with important themes. One of the standout elements of this novel is how it gently educates readers about the mistreatment of animals, weaving this message into a compelling narrative that encourages readers to believe they can make a difference. Beyond its focus on animal welfare, the story also explores broader ideas of activism and how to challenge and change broken systems; topics that feel especially relevant in today’s world.
In some ways, this novel reminds me of Kim Stanley Robinson's Ministry for the Future, as both books skillfully intertwine innovative ideas for positive change in the face of challenges like climate change and social injustice.
This is a thought-provoking read that I would recommend to both young and older readers alike. Whether you're passionate about animal welfare, seeking inspiration to create positive change, or simply looking for a story that will keep you on your toes, this book delivers.
January 7, 2025
Oh my goodness! I bought this from Kindle, which I don't usually do, because it sounded so fun! I love the idea of being able to talk to animals and understand them, and how Quinby was actually quite special in her abilities, that was fun.
But WOW! Did this book dwell on minutiae or WHAT?? I went along with it at first, SURE than soon we'd get to the good parts and stop all the little details, but it just went on and on. Descriptions of EVERY meal, descriptions of every interaction, descriptions of every class in the school, and I mean EVERY class!! Every minute!! Everything she did! It was BEYOND BORING. I thought, can young people, the YA intended audience, be riveted by this?? Wow, it was a LOT. I'm sorry, but I started skipping and skimming. No way was I going to read all actual 480 pages of this, filled with details that we didn't need to know. Cut that book down to 200 pages, please!! And put some real and interesting drama in it. (Oh, and the animals rarely had anything interesting to say, either.)
Sounded good, but I can't recommend it.
But WOW! Did this book dwell on minutiae or WHAT?? I went along with it at first, SURE than soon we'd get to the good parts and stop all the little details, but it just went on and on. Descriptions of EVERY meal, descriptions of every interaction, descriptions of every class in the school, and I mean EVERY class!! Every minute!! Everything she did! It was BEYOND BORING. I thought, can young people, the YA intended audience, be riveted by this?? Wow, it was a LOT. I'm sorry, but I started skipping and skimming. No way was I going to read all actual 480 pages of this, filled with details that we didn't need to know. Cut that book down to 200 pages, please!! And put some real and interesting drama in it. (Oh, and the animals rarely had anything interesting to say, either.)
Sounded good, but I can't recommend it.
May 24, 2025
I really enjoyed reading Animal Listeners—it became more unputdownable as the story progressed. R Aveen has crafted a rich and immersive world filled with a great variety of characters, each with their own interesting and well-developed backstories. From the main character Quinby to her close-knit group of friends, her rivals, teachers, and family back home, every character adds depth and colour to the narrative.
One of the standout features of the book is the detailed and well-researched information about animal families and their unique characteristics. These elements are seamlessly woven into the plot, enhancing both the educational and imaginative aspects of the story.
By the end, the world of Animal Listeners feels so well-established that it’s clear this is just the beginning—there’s definitely room for a sequel, if not an entire series. I’m already looking forward to what comes next!
One of the standout features of the book is the detailed and well-researched information about animal families and their unique characteristics. These elements are seamlessly woven into the plot, enhancing both the educational and imaginative aspects of the story.
By the end, the world of Animal Listeners feels so well-established that it’s clear this is just the beginning—there’s definitely room for a sequel, if not an entire series. I’m already looking forward to what comes next!
November 2, 2025
I loved this book! From the very start, I found myself rooting for the main character, Quinby Clark, as she discovers her new and surprising gift for communicating with animals. She escapes her abusive and traumatic home situation when she is invited to a special boarding school, which nurtures her newly found abilities and brings many new friendships and opportunities, along with challenges and mysteries. I truly loved learning about the inner lives of the animals Quinby communicates with - and the complexities of human-animal relationships. The author shares the story beautifully and compellingly. Animal Listeners invites us to consider our own relationships with animals - and how we can live in ways that are more harmonious with nature and our collective well-being. The story and characters kept me engaged, staying up late to learn the final discoveries.
December 28, 2024
Quinby Clark is going through her day to day with her awful family. When a bird starts talking to her she thinks she losing her mind. She quickly finds out there is a group of people that can talk to animals and is wisked away to a boarding school for animal listener children. Quinby quickly realizes she is special as she can talk to all animals, whereas most people can just speak with one family of animals. Will it help her or hurt her?
I loved this book. As someone who has repeatedly wished I could talk to animals, it was like a dream come true! I laughed, I cried. It was a wonderful book with action, adventure, and some really interesting characters!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved this book. As someone who has repeatedly wished I could talk to animals, it was like a dream come true! I laughed, I cried. It was a wonderful book with action, adventure, and some really interesting characters!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 30, 2025
Seriously, A Must Read!
Wow! I don’t even know where to start with this review! The novel is amazing!
I love how the author sprinkles (ok stuffs!) this story full of important Animal Rights and Human Rights messaging through Quinby’s everyday life events & dialogues. It’s so well done that you don’t even realize you’re learning important (possibly life-changing) information.
Animal Rights & Vegan folks will absolutely love this novel. It would also be a great novel study for all middle/high school students, and would encourage conversations about how we treat sentient beings, and how we can make positive changes in the world.
Wow! I don’t even know where to start with this review! The novel is amazing!
I love how the author sprinkles (ok stuffs!) this story full of important Animal Rights and Human Rights messaging through Quinby’s everyday life events & dialogues. It’s so well done that you don’t even realize you’re learning important (possibly life-changing) information.
Animal Rights & Vegan folks will absolutely love this novel. It would also be a great novel study for all middle/high school students, and would encourage conversations about how we treat sentient beings, and how we can make positive changes in the world.
May 21, 2025
Harry Potter meets Captain Planet meets Dr Doolittle. Heavy on the animal rights/veganism.
11 year old protagonist 46x pages…who is the audience? Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was 320. Reads like a YA book, but what teenager wants to read about 11 year olds
All of that aside it was well written. I enjoyed it.
11 year old protagonist 46x pages…who is the audience? Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was 320. Reads like a YA book, but what teenager wants to read about 11 year olds
All of that aside it was well written. I enjoyed it.
October 5, 2025
An excellent novel for young and old readers alike. A great story, inspiring characters, awesome animal characters and some twists and turns to keep you engaged throughout the entire book. Can't wait for the next one.
November 28, 2024
It is a great book, it's writting is very simple and understandable ... I highly recommend it to every readers . And if there would be map of the school and other things that would be really fun....
January 19, 2025
Inspiring novel for all who love animals and adventure stories!
I just finished reading Animal Listeners for the third time. Even knowing the story, I could not put the book down and read it at every opportunity. The reader goes along the journey of young Quinby from her horrible family home to a boarding school for children who can speak with animals, where she feels at home for the first time in her life. However, not everyone is happy with the new school arrival and events in the local community put Quinby in tricky situations, where she has to choose between saving animals she loves or risk being expelled and returned to her family home.
What makes this novel so great for young and old are the different depths entwined in the story. Younger readers will appreciate the quirky animal characters, adventures and great friendships that evolve throughout the story, while older readers will be intrigued by the societal implications and Quinby's thoughtful approach to animal welfare.
The novel is well written and fast flowing. Nothing distracts from the riveting story, realistic characters -human and animal - and important messages. Can you spot cat or dog behaviors that you see in your own animal friends? Is your cat more like Queen Grace or Buddy?
I love the Animal Listener world and can easily imagine myself being at the school beach or strolling through the school campus or nearby bush. Highly recommend!!
I just finished reading Animal Listeners for the third time. Even knowing the story, I could not put the book down and read it at every opportunity. The reader goes along the journey of young Quinby from her horrible family home to a boarding school for children who can speak with animals, where she feels at home for the first time in her life. However, not everyone is happy with the new school arrival and events in the local community put Quinby in tricky situations, where she has to choose between saving animals she loves or risk being expelled and returned to her family home.
What makes this novel so great for young and old are the different depths entwined in the story. Younger readers will appreciate the quirky animal characters, adventures and great friendships that evolve throughout the story, while older readers will be intrigued by the societal implications and Quinby's thoughtful approach to animal welfare.
The novel is well written and fast flowing. Nothing distracts from the riveting story, realistic characters -human and animal - and important messages. Can you spot cat or dog behaviors that you see in your own animal friends? Is your cat more like Queen Grace or Buddy?
I love the Animal Listener world and can easily imagine myself being at the school beach or strolling through the school campus or nearby bush. Highly recommend!!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews