8 Fantastic Animal Books for Animal Lovers
A woof-woof here, a meow there, and a chirp from out somewhere; books about animals are, more often than not, joyful pieces of literature that lead to hours of happy reading. While animal books typically cover the nonfiction and children’s books genres, there are plenty of fantastic novels that feature our four-legged friends in a fictional setting, with a pinch of thrill, drama, horror, or romance thrown in for good measure. No matter the theme, books for animal lovers always have elements of eternal love, compassion, and friendship, mixed with a sense of adventure that makes them an anytime read, particularly ideal for moody readers.
Sad Animal Facts by Brooke Barker
A delightful, enlightening, yet occasionally melancholic read, Sad Animal Facts is a beautiful book that features hand-drawn illustrations alongside amazing facts about various creatures. Presented in a fun, non-academic manner, it is one of those books about animals that educates but also entertains with its collection of bizarre, absurd, and often unbelievable truths and observations. However, it is the animals responding to the facts, in an honest and witty manner, that makes the book more loveable, as readers are bound to go "Aww!" page after page.
My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell
One of the best animal books for the entire family to read, My Family and Other Animals is the first of what is now known as Gerald Durrell's Corfu Trilogy. Along with Birds, Beasts and Relatives, and The Garden of the Gods, the book is a semi-autobiographical, telling of the time Durrell spent in Corfu as a child. Featuring the exploits of his English family, Durrell writes about the myriad flora and fauna of the island as he discovers unusual insects, creatures, and birds. A true classic in every sense, animal lovers will adore Durrell's ability to personify animals and their actions, making them all the more adorable and fascinating.
Three Bags Full by Leonie Swann
A quirky murder mystery that is both amusing and thrilling, Three Bags Full is Leonie Swann's remarkable debut that has a flock of sheep investigating the murder of their shepherd, George, in Glennkill, Ireland. Told from the sheep's point of view, Swann, instead of humanizing her protagonists, lets their animal eccentricities shine, which leads to the book's humorous moments. Bibliophiles will find this unusual detective story appealing because of Swann's cheekiness as she effortlessly includes literary mentions throughout the book. From the names of the sheep, Othello, and Miss Maple, to George reading books to the flock every night before sleep, Three Bags Full might be an odd read, but it sure is an unmissable book for animal lovers.
All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot
The many adventures of veterinarian James Herriot have entertained readers now for close to half a century. Initially published in 1972, the book is an autobiography by Herriot and talks about his time treating animals, big and small, in Yorkshire. Including stories that are loving, funny, and occasionally sad, Herriot masterfully observes and writes about both his animal patients as well as their owners. Considered amongst the essential books for animal lovers, All Creatures Great and Small is a never before look into the work of a veterinarian as well as life in rural England where animals and humans share a bond that is profound and everlasting.
Esther, The Wonder Pig by Steve Jenkins, Derek Walter, and Caprice Crane
Esther is a social media phenomenon and doesn't need much of an introduction. However, her story of being adopted by Steve and Derek is one that needs to be told again and again. Steve first took on Esther thinking she was a "micro pig," but soon realized that he and his partner were in for an adventure as she grew to be 600 pounds in two years. The inspirational bit about the story is how their love for this "commercial pig" made Steve and Derek change the course of their lives and start a farm where they would take care of other stray and abused animals. A fun-filled book for animal lovers that nudges readers subtly towards thinking about a meatless diet but is primarily an incredible story about love, care, and a whole lot of oink!
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
The Art of Racing in the Rain is an increasingly poignant tale about a family, told from the viewpoint of their dog, Enzo. However, Enzo is no ordinary dog. He is smart, mindful, introspective, and passionate; characteristics he learned by carefully observing his owner, Denny, a race car driver. The Art of Racing in the Rain emotionally challenges its readers. Yet, there are plenty of inspirational thoughts throughout the book, often intertwined with the "art of racing," that evoke feelings of hope and happiness. In the end, though, it is the bond that Enzo shares with Denny and his family that hits the reader's heart, leaving them tearful, but also happy for having read such an insightful book.
Marley and Me by John Grogan
Probably amongst the most well-known books about animals, thanks to its screen adaptation, Marley and Me is the story of a cute Labrador retriever who finds a loving home with John and Jenny Grogan. A memoir that spans thirteen years, Marley and Me is packed with a whirlwind of emotions that range from laugh-out-loud moments to heartfelt instances as Marley's human family goes about trying to train his daring and super-active personality. This must-read book for animal lovers is especially recommended for new pet owners as it gives an excellent insight into raising a dog, from accepting who they are to appreciating the unconditional love and lasting friendship owners receive back from them.
Grayson by Lynne Cox
Lynne Cox is a world-famous open water swimmer and the bestselling author of books Swimming to Antarctica and Elizabeth, Queen of the Seas. In Grayson, she takes us back to her teenage years, when on one faithful day, while finishing her morning workout, she discovered an 18-foot baby gray whale trailing her. For her to save the whale, Cox would have to avoid swimming towards the shore and head on out into the Pacific Ocean in search of the baby's mother. A short and inspirational read that talks about caring for all living beings, Grayson is a feel-good book for animal lovers that readers of all ages can learn a lesson from and finish in one quick sitting.
