No comments about Classic Cat Stories: Twenty Timeless Feline Tales (Classic).

5 comments about Tall Ears and Short Tales: Observations from the Barn.

1. This book is written with love, warmth and humor. I sometimes laughed, sometimes cried, but always realized the author's love of horses and her dedication to end horse slaughter. May God bless her for the work she's doing for all equine!



2. Join the author on her personal journey into the hearts and souls of neglected, abused, and unwanted animals. You'll meet lots of courageous horses looking for a second chance at life, and you'll also learn a little about a delightful Chocolate Lab who mothers horses, cats, and baby chicks.

   Knowledgeably written by Carol M. Chapman, owner of The Last Refuge, a sanctuary for horses and other assorted creatures no one else wanted. Tall Ears & Short Tales is a compelling and informative look at one of nature's wonderful and often terribly abused creatures - the horse - and the extremely dedicated people who rescue, rehabilitate, and provide sanctuary for them. Respect, humor, and thoughtful reflections upon the horses' point of view combine to make a thoroughly fascinating assortment of anecdotes from a wonderful writer and true animal lover.




3. This book is a "must read" for all animal lovers, and especially horse lovers. The author's warm style and insight into the minds of animals will draw you in and never let you go! "Horsey" people (of which I count myself one, according to the author's definition) will truly identify with the connection one feels with horses, and non-"horsey" people will get a wonderful taste of our side of the horse world.

   The author's natural, relaxed attitude toward animals is further reflected in her general philosophy toward family, relationships, and life in general. She makes you want to come and visit The Last Refuge and have a chat over coffee and perhaps muck a stall or two...




4. I have always been concerned about animals welfare. Especially cats. When I heard about Carol's book - I was only slightly interested. Boy!!! did I change my mind. I tried to read most of it on lunch hours but geeish... my eyes got red all the time-keep your Kleenex handy. Her style of writing puts you right there with the horse and feeling what he feels. It is extremely touching.

   I promise you that whether you have ever owned a horse (I have not) or rode a horse (I have only once) -- you WILL feel differently about them after this book. You will want to run and hug each and every one you see.

   It is easy reading - fun and touching. Interesting and joyful.
   I recommend it for all ages -- adults and children. This is a must have book!!!!! Give to your friends and relatives -- maybe we can all make a difference in horses lives and they in ours.




5. This book is wonderful. The writing style is easy to follow and it touches on the feelings and wonders of living with animals in a gentle, caring way.

   It's a must read for any horse or dog lover.

5 comments about No Dogs in Heaven? Scenes from the Life of a Country Veterinarian.

1. Once I started this book, I could not put it down! I am a pre-veterinary student, so my opinion is of course biased, but I think that most animal lovers will love this book. The doctor's stories ranged from funny to sad, but were all enjoyable. Like another reviewer mentioned, I am hoping for a sequel! Worth every penny.



2. Dr. Sharp's poignant and humorous stories of a vet's life in a rural area remind me of the great Dr. James Harriott books that I have enjoyed. I highly recommend No Dogs in Heaven.
   
   Don in Chilli



3. I happened to pick up this book on my way to the airport. The title caught my eye. I have a 16 year old son that shares my love for dogs and I thought
   maybe he would also read it and we would have something to talk about
   during our trip. We were on the way to Hawaii and I finished the book
   before we landed. I couldn't put it down. It was so much fun to read.
   The lady sitting next to me said "You are truly enjoying that book. I have
   seen you laugh, sigh, giggle and even cry while reading it. I am going to
   buy it as soon as I get home.".
   My son now wants to become a vet his grades are good, especially science and math, and we live near
   "The Ohio State University", so he may even attend the same Vet school as
   Dr. Sharp!I have sent a copy to my parents and two neighbors.



4. On the surface this book describes the days of a small-town vet. But it goes well beyond that to illustrate the ambiance of this country when people and times were more personal, more gracious, and much more in tune with those things that still really matter no matter how "global" we are claimed to have become by the talking heads of the media and government.
   It will convince the reader that those "better times and people" really haven't disappeared, and that is tremendously Good News.



5. I think this book is adorable and well-written. I'm enjoying it!

1 comments about Cup of Comfort for Horse Lovers: Stories that celebrate the extraordinary relationship between horse and rider (Cup of Comfort).

1. I ordered this book because it contained an essay authored by a very dear blog buddy. I also thought it would make an excellent gift for my horse loving spouse. I am not particularly enamored with horses so my own expectations were measured.
   
   Today I received the book and hurriedly opened it to find my friend's contribution. I expected it to be excellent and it was. But the reward of reading that single chapter was even greater than I had hoped.
   
   I returned to the front and began to read from the beginning and was surprised to find myself more than half way through when I finally took a break.
   
   There are horses in this book just as there are people. But they all become individuals with personality and character and they collectively experience the entire spectrum of emotion. The wonderful writing certainly contributes. But it is the raw emotion that adds the vivid color. There is a genuineness in these stories only possible I think because they are so intensely personal and related from experience.
   
   Kudos to Colleen Sell for a wonderful compilation.

5 comments about The Rufus Chronicle: Another Autumn.

1. A well-written real life of a Brittany and its owner in the field over the years. Very authentic, very moving.



2. I dislike books about dogs as a general rule, but The Rufus Chronicle was an unexpected treasure. Gusewelle speaks with a solid yet familiar voice about the joys and the learning curve of raising a dog from a pup with the intent for it to be a hunting dog. I haven't hunted or had a dog for many years, but with every turn of the page I was transported back to a time when my greatest pleasure was taking to the field with my canine companion. This book has the rare quality of speaking to the reader on a basic human level, causing you to not only remember scenes from your past, but also sounds, smells, and feelings. If you hunt, keep dogs, or are simply an animal lover with a big heart, then you must read this book.



3. This memoir by columnist Gusewelle of the life of his dog Rufus is rich, funny and gives a thorough explication of what it meant to live with the Brittany Rufus. I was not partial to the passages on hunting, as I am not a hunter, but I was still engrossed in the book, because these incidents told a lot about Rufus, and after all, HE loved the hunt. It's a pleasant read, with a not unexpected end that while sad completes the story satisfactorily. If you know someone who loves to read, hunt and loves his dogs, this book is definitely the perfect gift.



4. This book catches your attention immediately. The author's style makes you want to curl up and read without putting this book down for even a second! I am a Brittany owner but dog owners of all breeds, especially gun dogs, will find themselves smiling, crying, laughing and more as they take an emotional journey with the author and his dog through the seasons of their collective lives! ....a wonderful, heartwarming experience, don't miss it!



5. This will warm the hearts of all dog lovers. Dog owners will reflect on their own experiences with dogs as they read about Rufus, his yard mate and his Master, Charles. Do not be surprised if you find yourself smiling, crying and even laughing out loud.

2 comments about James Herriot's Animal Stories.

1. Easy reading for a light min



2. 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.

No comments about Horses and Other Heroes: Recollections and Reflections of a Life with Horses.

5 comments about Most of My Patients Wear Fur / Tales of Small Animals and Their Big City Vet..

1. I wish this book had been about twice as long. It is a fun read and full of interesting and useful tips. My old American Bulldog hates having his nails done and I "patted him on the head and gently blew in his face" and he was completely calm. Who would have guessed!! Please write more Dr. Cohen!



2. I gave this book to a fellow animal lover whose 94 year old grandmother has yet to put it down. She reads excerpts aloud to everyone who comes to visit.
   
   A wonderful read for all ages.
   
   Thank you Dr. Cohen for this heart-warming insight into the world of a "big city vet".



3. This book is entertaining (who doesn't want to know what happens in a vet's office?) but also informative, and it's sprinkled with important facts about caring for your animal. Highly recommend.



4. I purchased this book by chance and I have to say that I loved it. The great short stories are easy to read and educational; my 17 month old son loved it and kept bringing it back to me to read more and more. I am an "animal person" but this book taught me so much more that I think anyone would ever tell. Dr. Cohen's no nonsense tell all approach was so comforting and down to earth. I highly recommend this book to all even if you're not so into animals.



5. I absolutely LOVE this book! Dr. Cohen's book is filled with so much VALUABLE information; you can actually help protect and keep your pet safe and healthy by reading this book. Even if you don't own a pet, you will be entertained by the amusing stories, and you'll impress your pet-owner friends with the information you will be able to share.
   
   Some stories give you an inside look at what goes on in an animal hospital (VERY interesting!), and other stories tell about some amazing experiences in the life of a veterinarian. A very funny story about an Iguana had me laughing out loud, while reading about the hectic rush to save a dog who ingested poisonous antifreeze had me on the edge of my seat!
   
   The entire book is an enjoyable, easy read - I almost felt as though Dr. Cohen was sitting across from me, engaging in a good conversation.
   
   Highly Recommended!

5 comments about Madison Avenue Maxi.

1. Having a dog is no easy task. They require a lot of work and personal interaction -- talking, walking, bathing, grooming, and just plain old loving -- dogs need their people as much as people need their dogs. I always considered myself a cat person. I grew up with Mittens, our family tabby who died at the old age of 12, and since then have adopted several cats that I watched get old and finally leave the mortal coil. When we moved to Turks & Caicos I brought three cats with me from the states.
   
   So when my husband, who moved a few months before me, started talking about this stray potcake who kept following him home smiling all the way, my first response was, "Please just don't feed it!" We had a disastrous dog adoption experience once and I did not want to repeat that ever again. Long story short, suffice it to say that Smiley's picture graces my Blackberry, we keep a supply of treats on the kitchen counter, and I now understand the "dog thing".
   
   Elke & Ben Gazzara happened into their lovely Maxi in a similar way. Elke's daughter adopted a dog and then couldn't keep her. Ben did not want a dog in the house, and as a working actor with much traveling a dog was not convenient. But that little dachsund Maxi wormed her way into their house and then into nearly every high end restaurant, hotel, boutique, party, hospital, and several film sets along the way.
   
   But Madison Avenue Maxi is not only about a dog, but about her people. We see Ben & Elke in good times and bad, going through health crises, career changes, unexpected travel, but always with Maxi by their sides (or under the table in a bag). It is a book that speaks to the common bonds and life experiences of pets and their humans, and while sappy at times appeals to the best in human (and canine) nature, a highly enjoyable read.



2. In Madison Avenue Maxi, the wife of a movie star provides an inherently fascinating and engagingly personal memoir of the life and times of the family dog, a miniature dachshund she and her husband adopted, and offers up whimsical, fun anecdotes on how to dog became a part of their fast-paced, globe-trotting lifestyle. Any general-interest library strong in books about pets and stars will find it a fun leisure choice indeed.



3. This book is a perfect gem! It is a warm, transformative story about how Maxi, a charming dog, captures the hearts and affection of a busy couple.
   
   This beautifully designed book would make a perfect gift for anyone and certainly for animal lovers.
   
   But readers of all kinds will love this book as it is also a fine piece of debut non-fiction writing.



4. For every parent who ends up raising their child's unwanted pet. Enjoy how Maxi the dog, captivates his grandparents and becomes an indispensable part of their home.



5. What a delight! In this already hectic holiday season, Maxi was a breath of fresh air. For all dog lovers and anyone who wants an escape that is both heart-warming and fun.

1 comments about Winston: The Life of a Gun Dog.

1. This is a great book for anyone interested in bird dogs, especially Brittanys. Most of Mr. Williams books that I have read have been instructional whereas this book is a more personal story about his favorite dog Winston and his performance in the field. It is right up there with "The Rufus Chronicle". I just recently got a Brittany from the American Brittany Rescue and have not hunted him and actually haven't been hunting since I was a little girl with my dad. However, after reading Mr. William's book I have had the urge to get out there and try with my very first dog. This is a must read for Brittany lovers!