For some of us, the bright side of being quarantined has meant spending more time with our pets. We all know pets offer and accept unconditional love; certainly in these last weeks we have all needed some of that! There are also many great books and movies that feature animals … here are some of MPL’s staff favorites:
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein – The relationship between a race car driver and his dog, Enzo, through the years. Recently made into a movie, which is available on Hulu, the story is both touching and uplifting. Amanda G., Circulation Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby and Hoopla
Watchers by Dean Koontz – While hiking, a man comes across a bedraggled golden retriever who stops him from going deeper into the woods. This is the book that put Dean Koontz on the map – it’s a thriller, touching and a page-turning read. Try it! Stephanie C., Circulation Available on Libby
Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World by Vicki Myron – True story about an abandoned kitten who transforms the environment of a library in Iowa into a warm place where people find the love of this cat is true therapy. If you love animals and the amazing way they can add so much to life, you’ll love this! Nancy M., Circulation Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby
A Pedigree to Die For by Laurien Berenson – The first book of a mystery series featuring a single mother who gets involved with the dog show circuit. If you like watching the Westminster Dog Show, this might be the series for you! Kristin G., Circulation Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby
A Dog’s Purpose by Bruce Cameron – This is the first book in a series about the many reincarnations of the dog “Bailey”. Written from the dog’s point of view and the search for his purpose in life. Interesting to imagine the thoughts and perspective of our pets! This heartwarming book has also been made into a movie (which is available on Amazon), and sequels include A Dog’s Journey, A Dog’s Promise and Bailey’s Story. Linda G., Circulation All available on Libby
Black Beauty by Anna Sewell – A horse in nineteenth-century England recounts his experiences with both good and bad masters. With fifty million copies sold, Black Beauty is one of the best-selling books of all time. A great read for young and old! Larry L., Reference Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby and Hoopla
Many movies have also been made of Black Beauty. The classic 1944 Hollywood version stars Elizabeth Taylor (when she was a young teenager) and Mickey Rooney, but there are many others, including a 1994 remake starring Alan Cumming as Black Beauty. That one is available on Netflix.
Seabiscuit by Laura Hillenbrand – A universal underdog story, Seabiscuit was one of the most popular attractions in horse racing history. Extremely readable, it offers a fascinating window into the racing life. A movie based on the book was made in 2003 and won the Academy Award for Best Cinematography (available on Amazon). Stephanie C., Circulation Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby
Call of the Wild by Jack London –Buck is stolen from his home in California and shipped north to the Yukon, and there his adventures begin. If you last read this book in high school, please read it again – it is truly an American classic. There is a famous 1935 film adaptation, starring Clark Gable and Loretta Young, as well as the new 2020 release starring Harrison Ford (currently available On Demand). However, this book is definitely better than the movie! Stephanie C., Circulation Available as an audiobook and ebook on Libby
The Lucky Dog Matchmaking Service by Beth Kendrick – A woman with a gift can help someone find his/her soulmate … specifically a canine soulmate! Kristin G., Circulation Available as an audiobook on Hoopla
WAG: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy by Zazie Todd – Everything from doing research about what breed is right for you and your family to how to train a puppy, visiting the vet, adjusting to life with a dog and much more. Not only will this help you raise your new family member, it will help you better understand them! Christine K., Circulation Available on Libby
And lastly …
Things to Do During the Pandemic With Your Dogs (Christine K., Circulation)
Spend time walking them – it gets you out of the house and they will enjoy the walk.
Take them to the local dog park.
Teach them new tricks.
Watch YouTube/Instagram videos about teaching dog tricks.
Join BarkBox, a dog subscription service that will send your dog a box of toys and treats!
Most of all – enjoy the time you have with your pet. Soon we’ll be back to work and we’ll miss those daytime snuggles!