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A review by sarah_tellesbo
All Things Wise and Wonderful by James Herriot
4.0
I recently read an online article about James Herriot (aka Alf Wight) in which I learned of his lifelong battle with severe depression. With no real knowledge of Herriot outside of his professional accomplishments, I read his first book casually; cute stories about a budding British veterinarian and his furry, lovable patients in 1930’s farmland. What could be more pleasant and lighthearted, right?
Well, as is true for many things in life, Herriot’s stories actually run deeper than the superficiality of a cute cover and the sunny image of a loving, passionate veterinarian portrayed in his books. It seems that these animals were not only his professional passion, but a major source of solace for a frequently troubled soul.
As a social worker by profession, and an individual who struggles with depression myself, I can attest to the healing power of our four-legged companions. It’s never been any surprise to me that the deepest, most tender souls are often the most devout animal-lovers.
With that in mind, I read All Things Wise & Wonderful from a different perspective and discovered an entirely new understanding of this incredible man who found peace in helping, befriending, and respecting the under-appreciated animals of the world. The very animals that likely added immense purpose and color to his otherwise troublesome and difficult world. Still cute and heartwarming, but also deeply profound.
Well, as is true for many things in life, Herriot’s stories actually run deeper than the superficiality of a cute cover and the sunny image of a loving, passionate veterinarian portrayed in his books. It seems that these animals were not only his professional passion, but a major source of solace for a frequently troubled soul.
As a social worker by profession, and an individual who struggles with depression myself, I can attest to the healing power of our four-legged companions. It’s never been any surprise to me that the deepest, most tender souls are often the most devout animal-lovers.
With that in mind, I read All Things Wise & Wonderful from a different perspective and discovered an entirely new understanding of this incredible man who found peace in helping, befriending, and respecting the under-appreciated animals of the world. The very animals that likely added immense purpose and color to his otherwise troublesome and difficult world. Still cute and heartwarming, but also deeply profound.