Reviews
** People Magazine Book of the Week** ** The Washington Post's Best Feel-Good Books of 2022** ** Goodreads Members' Most Anticipated Books of 2022** "Funny Farm 's story makes an enjoyable read for animal lovers and anyone interested in a true story of a generous and unconventional life." -- Associated Press "An ebullient memoir and a reminder that the bigger your heart, the greater the rewards." --People Magazine "[A] heartwarming debut...Zaleski masterfully illustrates how one person can rise above difficult circumstances to do substantial good. Lovers of the furry and feathery will revel in this feel-good story."-- Publishers Weekly "The author expertly balances humor and vulnerability while sharing the details of her harrowing childhood, making the book feel like a conversation between friends...the book, both heartwarming and heartbreaking, is an enjoyable read." -- Kirkus Reviews (starred) "Zaleski's animal stories are immensely relatable and often told with the mix of empathy, outrage, humor, and steady resolve that is familiar to seasoned animal rescuers. Readers may also feel a special connection with Annie and her story of courage and unconditional love." -- Library Journal (Starred) "A chronicle of the hardscrabble childhood that sparked [Zaleski's] devotion to all creatures great and small. This is a tale that's heartbreaking and uplifting in equal measure. (Think "Educated" meets "Dr. Dolittle.")" -- Washington Post "There are no drags or pauses in [Zaleski's] riveting tale; each new chapter presents an emotionally exciting and enthralling part of her life. " -- The Michigan Daily "This story of grit and resilience is 100 percent inspiring."-- Real Simple " Funny Farm is the satisfying tumultuous story of one mama who understood that a messy life crowded with love and animals is plenty good enough. Her daughter would grow up to tackle that legacy and build her own thriving animal sanctuary. Laurie Zaleski writes in vivid unsentimental language, equal parts passion and grit. She would balk at being called tender hearted. She'd better get used to it."--Ellen Stimson, Author of Mud Season and Good Grief "I found myself up till much later at night than was good for me, just to read one more chapter. I laughed, I cried, I related in a very deep way, and most of all, I fell in love with Laurie, her mom, and her whole family, both human and non. Funny Farm was moving, inspiring, honest, and refreshingly real. I loved every page!"--Ellie Laks-Weiner, author of My Gentle Barn "If you need your spirits lifted, spend some time at the Funny Farm. You'll come away smiling." --twincities.com " This book is charming, funny, inspiring and hugely entertaining." -- StarTribune "Some honor their loved ones by planting a tree. Laurie Zaleski went a lot further: She founded an entire animal sanctuary, just as she'd once promised her mother." -- New York Post " Earnest and honest, endearing and inspiring." -- About Books by George Ernsberger "Like [Zaleski's] mom, the book is never far from a laugh or a heartwarming story about a rescue animal." -- Philadelphia Inquirer "I highly recommend visiting the Farm, reading Funny Farm, and spreading all the kindness!" -- The Women's Eye
