James Herriot's Animal Stories

Even people who have everything, especially shelves already full of books - would still appreciate receiving this little volume. It's a slender sampler of some of Herriot's stories from his career as a veterinarian in the Yorkshire Dales in the 1930's. It's of course still better to get Herriot in his entirety - the whole of "Creatures Great and Small" and its sequels. However, if you just don't have time for that quantity of reading, as enjoyable as that would be - then a book like this is the ideal solution. It's the perfect bedside companion. The stories selected for this volume don't include any mention of Siegfried or Tristan, the founding proprietors of the veterinary office. The book concentrates on Herriot alone, out in the field with his Dales patients. There are no tragic endings in this selection, so it would make a good book for young children and for adults who want an escape from sadness for a while. It does include a story about Herriot's most famous patient, the inimitable Tricki Woo, (let's see, is he to be addressed as "Esquire" or "Master?), the cosseted lapdog from whom so many benefits flowed. Herriot's son wrote an introduction to the book, reminding us that the real family name is "Wight." His introduction also reminds us of the real name and location of what became "Skeldale House," a slight displacement practiced to somewhat disguise the real identities of the people who appeared in these pages. Each story is wonderfully illustrated with a watercolor painting or two done in sepia and muted earth tones. At first glance, these illustrations might seem to be a little too understated. We are used to more vivid special effects. But as you begin to steep in each of these stories in turn, you'll probably feel that the pictures strike just the right note after all. They illustrate the quiet joys to be found driving through all the seasons of the Yorkshire Dales.

This is a wonderful audio book. It's really nice having Timothy Christopher, the actor who played James Herriot in the televison series read the book. It's fun and exactly what I wanted.

It's excellent. The best stories, heartwarming, funny; a nice introduction from Herriot's son. If you are a fan, this should be in your collection.

Easy reading for a light min

James Herriot writes of his various experiences as a country vet. Laugh with his humorous mishaps, and share the joy and fulfillment of his career.