James Herriot's Yorkshire

You can imagine how thrilled I was to discover that the book I ordered had been signed by James Harriott himself! My dad visited the author's business in the early 80's and got a copy of All Creatures. Dad gave the copy to my sister-in-law. Now we have 2 books signed by him in the family. FANTASTIC!!

James Herriot, actually James Alfred Wight (1916-95), a native of Glasgow, Scotland, qualified as a veterinarian at 23 years of age, and quickly fell with his new location of Yorkshire. Beginning in 1970, James began to write books, reaching into his years of experience as a vet, and spinning out enthralling and entertaining stories of things that did happen and things that might have happened on the Yorkshire Dales. He so loving described his little world, that before long people around the globe began searching maps for his beloved Darrowby, and found...nothing! Like much in James stories Darrowby is a composite of real locations and the Dales of his imagination. In this book, which was first published in 1979, James takes the reader through the real Yorkshire Dales, telling all about its rugged and captivating beauty. Overall, I found this to be a fascinating read. James deeply loved the Yorkshire Dales, and this book definitely brings that through. With each page, you can see the Dales through his eyes, and it will definitely make you want to go see it! This is a great book, a must-have for any James Herriot fan, and I highly recommend it!

I do believe this is the original, copyright 1979; an updated version came out in 1998. When the later edition came out, I was quite distraught, thinking that I would never find the "original." A dear friend and I searched second-hand books stores while in Yorkshire many years ago, and discovered the "original" is still readily available. Of the two, I found the "original," this one, so much the better of the two. If you are fortunate enough to visit Yorkshire as a tourist, this book will provide a memory of that wonderful place. Yorkshire was a personal journey for me so James Herriot may not affect others the way he affects me, but this is more than just a coffee-table book. Excellent writing; great description of the area by a man who truly loved Yorkshire.

The pages of this book are filled with the good things of life. Memories. Not only those of the author, but also for the reader as well. To someone familiar with the titles by James Herriot, reading through this book is almost like reminiscing with an old friend. Spending time collectively on an open hillside overlooking a Yorkshire dale. Surrounded by the scent of heather, farmland, natural beauty and wild vistas. Wonderful escape. I've always been charmed by Herriot's stories and his writing. As Herriot describes the places where he lived, practiced, and holidayed in Yorkshire he is equally as charming and sentimental. I couldn't even begin to highlight what is featured in this book. A range of geography, ancient ruins, villages and towns are mentioned. With just enough history and folklore. Also included is a basic map. Affectionately and exquisitely written. Impressively and lavishly photographed. You couldn't have a more personal, romantic account or tour outside of the real thing. Special and captivating. A treat to James Herriot fans. Recommendable book for outdoor reading too.

I have owned a copy of this book for nearly 20 years, and each time I read it, it remains as fresh as the first time. I am at an advantage, because, living in Yorkshire, means that I have visted nearly every place, featured in the book. Believe me, it is just as beautiful in real life, as it is presented in this book. Yorkshire is affectionately known by we "Yorkies", as "God's Own Country", and to us, it is. We have bought this copy for a very dear friend of ours who lives in North Carolina, and we hope that he receives the pleasure which we do, by opening up the pages into a real insight of Yorkshire.

As a Yorkshire woman living in America, this book reminded me of the beauty of the varying Yorkshire landscapes. James Herriot's down to earth style alongside wonderful photographs transport you straight to the heart of Yorkshire. Read this and you'll want to visit.