Snap Judgment Monkey Sister - Tooth & Claw
Jan 22, 2026
Hannah Friedman, a TV and film writer, shares her unique upbringing with Amelia, a capuchin monkey adopted by her mother, Alison Pascoe, a zoologist. They reflect on the challenges of raising a monkey as a sister, from playful childhood memories to jealousy during adolescence when Amelia's fame overshadowed Hannah's life. Tim Snyder introduces his relationship with a racehorse named Lisa’s Booby Trap, highlighting how training her pulled him from grief after losing his wife. The intertwining stories reveal deep connections between humans and animals.
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Raised Like A Human Child
- Hannah Friedman describes Amelia the capuchin as a constant, mischievous presence who felt like a sibling growing up.
- Alison Pascoe explains she rescued and raised Amelia after finding her malnourished and bonded closely with her.
Primate Hierarchy Shapes Family Conflict
- Capuchin social rules influenced household dynamics and created hierarchy tensions with Hannah as she matured.
- Alison Pascoe notes primate hierarchies made Amelia challenge Hannah for rank among the female members.
Use Direct Assertion With A Primate
- Alison Pascoe advised Hannah to assert dominance by maintaining eye contact and physically confronting Amelia when provoked.
- She coached that holding eye contact until the monkey breaks it signals victory in their encounters.
