Philosopher Rene Descartes declared that non-human animals were nothing more than soulless machines who functioned as automata. Which is to say, Descartes was an idiot and this nonfiction proves it. Explorations of animal cognition, intelligence, emotions, and consciousness. So far I've only added ones that I've read or are on my upcoming TBR, but suggestions are also welcome.

The most recent contenders from Canada Reads, an annual "Battle of the Books" run by the CBC (Canada's national broadcaster). Each year five Canadian celebrities step in to champion one Canadian book in a series of televised debates/discussions to see which book will come out on top.