Big Animals by Grant Allen (1893)
The book Big Animals, by Grant Allen, is a collection of short stories about various animals and their interactions with humans. The stories range from humorous to heartwarming, and explore themes of friendship, loyalty, and the power of nature. Some of the featured animals include elephants, lions, and gorillas, as well as lesser-known creatures like the okapi and the quagga. Overall, the book is a fascinating exploration of the animal kingdom and its relationship with humans.
By Grant Allen · First published 1893 · Genre: Science Fiction, Non-Fiction, Humor · 7,102 words
First lines
'The Atlantosaurus,' said I, pointing affectionately with a wave of my left hand to all that was immortal of that extinct reptile, 'is estimated to have had a total length of one hundred feet, and was probably the very biggest lizard that ever lived, even in Western America, where his earthly remains were first disinhumed by an enthusiastic explorer.'
'Yes, yes,' my friend answered abstractedly. 'Of course, of course; things were all so very big in those days, you know, my dear fellow.'
What this Textopian page supports
Big Animals is listed on Textopian as a short story by Grant Allen, dated 1893 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Grant Allen
- Date: 1893 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Non-Fiction, Humor, Essay, Educational
- Length: 7,102 words
- Structure: 1 section, 56 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Big Animals by Grant Allen
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Big Animals?
- How does this short story by Grant Allen fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- The Muskrats Are Building by Dallas Lore Sharp
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- A Rabbit Of The World by Grant Allen
- The Kookaburra by Edward S. Sorenson
- Our Deserts by Charles Kingsley
Genres
- Science Fiction — The narrative explores speculative ideas about prehistoric creatures and their sizes, blending scientific discourse with imaginative elements.
- Non-Fiction — The text provides detailed scientific explanations and theories about geological times and prehistoric animals, resembling a factual discourse.
- Humor — The writing style includes humorous comparisons and a playful tone, especially in the depiction of historical anachronisms and the author's interactions.
- Essay — The work is structured as a reflective and argumentative essay, discussing misconceptions about prehistoric times and animal sizes.
Tags
animals · nature · wildlife · adventure · exploration · science · ecosystem · habitat · conservation · biodiversity · environment · species