About the Book
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A Mischief of Rats is the affectionate, funny, research-rich book that rats—and their humans—have been waiting for. It’s part natural history, part pop-culture scrapbook, part myth-busting manifesto, all delivered with the charm of an author and animal lover who’s been in the mischief (the official term for a group of rats) since age five.
From the Karni Mata Temple in India where rats are worshipped, to the laboratory breakthroughs made possible by rodent research, to the latest science on rat empathy and intelligence, readers will discover a creature far more fascinating (and far less villainous) than their reputation suggests. Alongside the deep dives, playful sidebars serve up quick, surprising facts: the origins of coat colors like “champagne” and “blue,” the reason rats brux and boggle, and the lab study where rats learned to drive tiny cars just for snacks.
This is not a stuffy encyclopedia entry. It’s the kind of nonfiction you can read in bed, quote at brunch, or give to your aunt who still insists rats will “gnaw off your toes in your sleep.” A Mischief of Rats is a cultural and scientific joyride designed to charm animal lovers, educate the curious, and maybe even convert the rat skeptics.
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“I’ve long known Staci as both a gifted writer and a lover of the noble yet maligned Rattus, so it’s a joy to see these elements of her personality come together in A Mischief Of Rats. This compelling, fascinating and laugh-out loud funny book will make you look at the world’s misunderstood rodents as the clever, empathetic and social creatures they truly are.” Jace Anderson (screenwriter, Killer Rats)
“Entertaining and enlightening.” Mikey Elms (actor, Ghost music video “Rats”)
“A Mischief of Rats is not just for those who love the unloved—this is for anyone who’s interested in animals, psychology, science, history, and more. Such an entertaining and informative read!” Wendy Season (ASPCA)
Staci Layne Wilson got her first rat when she was five years old and has been defending them ever since. She currently shares her home with a mischief of four rats who provide daily inspiration, endless entertainment, and the occasional editorial assistance.
A professional writer specializing in animal subjects, Staci has contributed to numerous Fancy Publications, including Dog Fancy, Cat Fancy, Horse Illustrated, and Ferrets. She's the author of several books, including the bestselling Animal Movies Guide, which covers thousands of films and features exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes trivia that only a true animal enthusiast could uncover.
When she's not writing about the creatures we share our world with, Staci can be found teaching her rats new tricks, explaining to skeptical visitors why rats make excellent pets, and plotting the rat revolution one converted heart at a time.