Our Chinese hamster Shirley Chisholm Armstrong Davis died last week. She was indomitable as her famous namesake, guarding her territory against all comers. She explored the house boldly, ramming her clear plastic ball against obstacles, and when she was asked to edit Jennifer’s manuscripts her critique was pitiless. Shirley and her sister, Fannie Lou Hamer Armstrong Davis, arrived in our New York City apartment in 2021. They shared a mutual affection and managed their domestic arrangements ...
