The Better Animal

By Ken Ballen and Wu Ming (“Anonymous”)

A gripping and ultimately hopeful tale of a future America on the cusp of electing the most unusual President in its history and an allegorical take on the state of our current political climate and technological advances--for readers of speculative fiction, LGBTQ stories, and politics.

It is 2040 and American democracy faces its last chance, held in the ruthless grip of an authoritarian and abusive administration. In this turmoil, an unlikely new voice emerges: Kit, a candidate offering a platform of change and a truth that the nation has been desperate to hear.

At the heart of Kit's campaign are two men, Wing, a young scientist of exceptional intelligence, and Jake, an accomplished prosecutor and former top Presidential advisor. As the country descends from corruption and hatred and prejudice, Kit leads the men, emerging from their own trauma, on an unexpected journey of redemption and love.

Offering to take the country on a path of redemption too and empowered by a voice made possible through AI, Kit becomes the first dog to run for President. Now, a besieged nation listens to a transformative message never imagined before by a human. For the first time, America can hear a new language, with Kit herself leading the way.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1646049667
• ISBN13: 9781646049660
• Release Date: November 2026
• Publisher: Montague Books
• Length: 350 Pages