New Animal dealt with grief in new way. It showed how trauma can turn people to the darkest of outlets, and ruin family relationships. The main character made a series of questionable decisions which were hard to see unfold, yet indicated just how turbulent her life was becoming. Ella Baxter’s first novel was not shy and has established her as a writer who will deal with the taboo; it will be exciting to see what comes next - Grace Gooda

New Animal explores the journey of grief through the body, sexuality, and the methods we seek for escape. An immersive, visceral read and a tumultuous ride, Baxter uses physical violence, and the limits of the body to write on the nuances of the afterlife of death for the living. Gripping from beginning to end - Helena Pantsis

New Animal was a very interesting reader experience overall. While I found the concept of dealing with grief in “unnatural” ways to be engaging, the narrator’s depressive monologues of despair and desperation became a bit tiring. I found the relationships around her to be confusing and mismatched, with her treatment of her family and friends awful and selfish compared to the close relationships she was constantly describing. By halfway through the book, I began waiting for the narrative to move on in a different direction, but it never did! However, the narrator’s voice reflects some people who do not learn to grow in times of need, and when those around them require it - so I think on reflection, it could be pretty accurate - Lucia Droga