I am thinking about buying this book, is it a good choice to buy it--or not?

"All Creatures Great and Small" is the first of four books in this brilliantly written series. The companion volumes are "All Things Bright and Beautiful", "All Things Wise and Wonderful", and "The Lord God Made Them All". James Herriot (whose actual name was James Alfred Wight) began his veterinary practice in 1939 and continued serving his community for half a century. Each story that he penned carries the reader deep into the Yorkshire countryside of England and into the lives of many colorful and entertaining characters, both people and animals. You will be captured by the tales and find yourself laughing out loud at the antics of man and beast, relecting on the beauty of the close friendship of a pet, and weeping over losses that we all suffer when one of our animal friends pass. These are books to read again and again because they show the depth of compassion that one man had for God's creatures through a life lived in simplicity, and yet his writings are a profound example to all who love and care for animals.

I bought the book for my 11 yo cause it was recommended. i ended up reading and enjoying the book, but how someone can imagine it suitable for youngsers under 18 is beyond me.

god blessed james . author/vet herriot wrote one of the most beautiful , loving , detailed and moving books you'd ever have the good fortune of stumbling across . i read a portion in a jr. college reader and then swiftly got the book . james was clearly one of the greatest writer/humans of any time . what a gift his insight and stories are . required reading for all humanity .

The classic story based on the real life experience of a veterinarian in Yorkshire, England. James Herriot comes to Darrowby during a time when jobs are scarce and he needs to stay. But he finds he loves the people and the animals.

His associates are a lively bunch. His boss, Siegfried Farnon, is kindhearted, but has an annoying habit of contradicting himself (and then blaming it on James). Siegfried's brother, Tristan Farnon, is the younger almost-vet who is stuck with the worst jobs, loves the ladies and a drink or two. The farmers and neighbors are generally are hardworking lot. Their stories give the true color of the place and time. James also meets Helen Alderson, the beautiful and enchanting daughter of a farmer.

The classic tale was also turned into a BBC series (7 seasons). I would highly recommend both!

Mr. James Herriot is an uncommon writer, possessed of extraordinary skill and a mastery of the English language. When speaking of works of fiction, he is my favorite writer. His ability to choose perfectly appropriate and descriptive words, phrases, and metaphors to verbally illustrate unique characteristics, landscapes, feelings, and situations still has me mesmerized.

"All Creatures Great and Small" is autobiographical in that Mr. Herriot is the central character of the book, though James Herriot is the pen name of the real author, Jim Wight. However, since the work is defined as a novel, then one may assume that Mr. Herriot took certain liberties in relating many of the tales he unfolds. Mr. Herriot is a veterinary surgeon, and much of his novel specifically involves dealing with particular cases of sick livestock and ailing house pets. One should not quickly conclude, however, that this story is merely about the ramblings of a country animal doctor who at times finds himself in interesting situations, as some reviewers would suggest.

Instead, my feeling is that Mr. Herriot utilized his visits to multiple and varied farms and residences in the British countryside to highlight the individual conditions, attitudes, and distinctive persons he discovered at each location. The book becomes absolutely delightful and poignant, for instance, when Mr. Herriot kindly sits at an aging woman's bedside and tenderly comforts her with his voiced belief that her devoted, loving dogs and cats are indeed possessed of souls and that she need not fear that they will again be her companions in the afterlife.

And I do not believe I have laughed out loud so frequently while reading one book. Some of my personal favorites are when his brakes go out on his car and he must navigate a steep and winding descent to the bottom of a low valley, where his next veterinary visit is scheduled, and when he finds himself on his first date with the woman he is destined to marry and the only respectable dress suit he owns is several years out of fashion and far too tight-fitting, which is partly why he becomes far too nervous and a bout of awkward conversation and actions follow. Additionally, much might be said here about the quirky relationship Mr. Herriot has with his unpredictable and explosive yet perfectly harmless and generous employer, a Mr. Siegfried Farnon, and Siegfried's younger brother, Tristan. Farnon's demanding attitude regarding his veterinary business affairs, especially in the face of Tristan's irresponsibility in mishandling assignments and responsibilities, is often the basis for much of the hilarity in the book.

In speaking of his relationships with those to whom he is closest on a personal level and the frequently visited owners of his animal patients, Mr. Herriot has an especially profound gift when it comes to praising the best characteristics that are found in the human race. He speaks with eloquent fondness when describing the beautiful traits he sees in his lovely Helen, his soon-to-be wife. And when he stumbles upon a man or woman who he feels is in ownership of certain admirable exceptionality, such as industry or thrift or honesty or discipline or gentleness, his written accolades of such persons is heartwarming and deeply inspiring.

Thus I would say that this book has everything. It touches upon the topics of death, faith, humor, love, devotion, stewardship, human strengths and frailties, prosperity and poverty, work and idleness, occupation, and the list goes on. Given that these interesting topics are handled so capably by Mr. Herriot's writing talent, I doubt that any sensitive reader would find this book to be anything but delightful and praiseworthy.

Mr. James Herriot is an uncommon writer, possessed of extraordinary skill and a mastery of the English language. When speaking of works of fiction, he is my favorite writer. His ability to choose perfectly appropriate and descriptive words, phrases, and metaphors to verbally illustrate unique characteristics, landscapes, feelings, and situations still has me mesmerized.

"All Creatures Great and Small" is autobiographical in that Mr. Herriot is the central character of the book, though James Herriot is the pen name of the real author, Jim Wight. However, since the work is defined as a novel, then one may assume that Mr. Herriot took certain liberties in relating many of the tales he unfolds. Mr. Herriot is a veterinary surgeon, and much of his novel specifically involves dealing with particular cases of sick livestock and ailing house pets. One should not quickly conclude, however, that this story is merely about the ramblings of a country animal doctor who at times finds himself in interesting situations, as some reviewers would suggest.

Instead, my feeling is that Mr. Herriot utilized his visits to multiple and varied farms and residences in the British countryside to highlight the individual conditions, attitudes, and distinctive persons he discovered at each location. The book becomes absolutely delightful and poignant, for instance, when Mr. Herriot kindly sits at an aging woman's bedside and tenderly comforts her with his voiced belief that her devoted, loving dogs and cats are indeed possessed of souls and that she need not fear that they will again be her companions in the afterlife.

And I do not believe I have laughed out loud so frequently while reading one book. Some of my personal favorites are when his brakes go out on his car and he must navigate a steep and winding descent to the bottom of a low valley, where his next veterinary visit is scheduled, and when he finds himself on his first date with the woman he is destined to marry and the only respectable dress suit he owns is several years out of fashion and far too tight-fitting, which is partly why he becomes far too nervous and a bout of awkward conversation and actions follow. Additionally, much might be said here about the quirky relationship Mr. Herriot has with his outlandish and boisterous yet perfectly harmless employer, a Mr. Siegfried Farnon, and Siegfried's younger brother, Tristan. Farnon's demanding attitude regarding his veterinary business affairs, especially in the face of Tristan's irresponsibility in mishandling assignments and responsibilities, is often the basis for much of the hilarity in the book.

In speaking of his relationships with those to whom he is closest on a personal level and his frequently visited owners of his animal patients, Mr. Herriot has an especially profound gift when it comes to praising the best characteristics that are found in the human race. He speaks with eloquent fondness when describing the beautiful traits he sees in his lovely Helen, his soon-to-be wife. And when he stumbles upon a man or woman who he feels is in ownership of certain admirable exceptionality, such as industry or thrift or honesty or discipline or gentleness, his written accolades of such persons is heartwarming and deeply inspiring.

Thus I would say that this book has everything. It touches upon the topics of death, faith, humor, love, devotion, stewardship, human strengths and frailties, prosperity and poverty, work and idleness, occupation, and the list goes on. Given that these interesting topics are handled so capably by Mr. Herriot's writing talent, I doubt that any sensitive reader would find this book to be anything but delightful and joyous.

One of the best books I've read in my life. A must read. Very well written. Makes you want to write like him.

I remember seeing my high school biology teacher reading this book at her desk while she had some time to herself, while we did our thing with dissections, etc. It seemed that she couldn't get her hands off this book. And I'd wonder what the book was about. Something about creatures. Maybe it was about GOD and church and religion.

Now that I've had a chance to read this book, twenty years later, I can say that it is a wonderful book! You don't want this book to end. And now I understand why my biology teacher was so hooked on it.

This is a nonfictional book about an English veterinarian writing about his funny and sometimes dramatic profession. From how he started, to his everyday events in a small town (away from the big city such as London) to how he meets his future wife, and his gradual establishment of his veterinary life. This book is filled with funny moments that makes you pause with a smile on your face. And has its poignant moments that makes you realize its wonderful writing.

This book gives you a glimpse of what the veterinary world is like on his side, on the countryside of life, with real people and real stories, and of course, with real animals. Animals and people and veterinary work that you will come to love.

I can't add much more than the previous reviews. How many books on Amazon have a 5 star rating with 100+ reviews? Missed this one during school and read all three of Herriot's books in my 40's. Truly lovely, wise, and transporting. I will make sure my children don't wait as long as I did to discover these classics.

Wonderful and inspiring stories of a country vet are humorously written but also deliver a good amount of practical veterinary insight. It's nice to read from the point of view of a kind-hearted yet practical country animal lover.

I bought this edition as a gift for a graduating vet student (every vet needs a copy in his or her office). The book is a classic, and the hardcover is suitable for gifting.

I first read this book in high school and decided I wanted to be a veterinarian...James Herriot is a superb story teller. This book is fun for all ages. Some minor curse words from the farmers make it better for teenagers and up, but my son is currently in 5th grade and I am reading it aloud to him, and censoring as I go. :)
It is hard to find stories that can impart to children the stuff of life, but James does a fine job of telling the facts, while making you laugh or cry. And ultimately you walk away from the story feeling the same sense of wonder he does for people, nature, and life in general.
I highly recommend this book.

I read his books as a teen and loved them. Bought the whole set for my grandsons, [teens]. They laughed until they cried. [so did I].

As a child, I grew up in a family that devoured the stories of James Herriot. You will laugh, cry, smile at the stories that are shared with the readers. At times I feel like I am right there by his side as he operates on an animal.
At the present, I am re-reading the whole series. PBS movies are good-but not as good as the books.
This books deals with the beginnings of his vet practice, and I get a kick out of James being an "uncle" to a dog and a pig.

Read the first page. That's all you need to decide you want this book. The author is a veterinarian in Yorkshire, and perhaps my American readers are aware of a PBS series by the same name. He's just an amazingly gifted storyteller. This guy is a veterinarian, but his writing puts most "professional authors" to shame.

Yes, this is my all-time favorite book, and it begins my all-time favorite series. Can you summarize the almost limitless appeal of Herriot? I will try. First of all, this book takes place in England, and I am a committed Angliophile. It is warm and compassionate without being soppy. It is a timeless memoir that cuts a slice out of the pie of time and keeps it forever. Prior to Herriot, I exclusively read fiction. Not just any fiction, but Science Fiction and Fantasy Fiction, both of which are as different from this book as jam is from vegemite (eeuurggh!). Reading Herriot made me realize that the old saying "Truth is stranger than fiction" left out something. Truth is BETTER than fiction. Enjoy wiht my compliments.

What can one say about a masterpiece. For this is truly what this novel is. This is a timeless classic that will endure for generation after generation.

Follow the true adventures of Yorkshire veterinarian James Herriott and his charming comrades as he traverses the Yorkshire dales in the 1930's attending to the ailing animals that he loved so dearly. You'll feel every mile as he bumps along over the fells and moors. You'll see all the wild beauty of the extraordinary Yorkshire territory of England. But most importantly, you'll feel all the emotions tugging at your heart from the hardened Yorkshire farmers to the humorous and warmhearted denizens of Darrowby. You'll meet the inimitable Seigfried Farnon, James's veterinary partner, whose constant contradictions nevertheless fail to conceal a heart truly without malice of any kind and filled with love and generosity. You'll meet Seigfried's brother, Tristan, with his, shall we say, overly relaxed view of life. There's also Helen, the woman who captures James's heart and the hysterically funny Granville Bennett whose eating and drinking prowess is not to be outdone by anyone. Yes, there are these lively characters and more that pepper the pages of this work of literary genius.

But most of all, this novel will leave you with the warmest and coziest of feelings. From the blazing fires in the drawing rooms to the shivering winter nights spent delivering precious new animal lives, you'll be drawn into this world of delight and joy. Don't miss the opportunity of a lifetime to own this enchanting marvel!

Smash B

What can one say about a masterpiece. For this is truly what this novel is. This is a timeless classic that will endure for generation after generation.

Follow the true adventures of Yorkshire veterinarian James Herriott and his charming comrades as he traverses the Yorkshire dales in the 1930's attending to the ailing animals that he loved so dearly. You'll feel every mile as he bumps along over the fells and moors. You'll see all the wild beauty of the extraordinary Yorkshire territory of England. But most importantly, you'll feel all the emotions tugging at your heart from the hardened Yorkshire farmers to the humorous and warmhearted denizens of Darrowby. You'll meet the inimitable Seigfried Farnon, James's veterinary partner, whose constant contradictions nevertheless fail to conceal a heart truly without malice of any kind and filled with love and generosity. You'll meet Seigfried's brother, Tristan, with his, shall we say, overly relaxed view of life. There's also Helen, the woman who captures James's heart and the hysterically funny Granville Bennett whose eating and drinking prowess is not to be outdone by anyone. Yes, there are these lively characters and more that pepper the pages of this work of literary genius.

But most of all, this novel will leave you with the warmest and coziest of feelings. From the blazing fires in the drawing rooms to the shivering winter nights spent delivering precious new animal lives, you'll be drawn into this world of delight and joy. Don't miss the opportunity of a lifetime to own this enchanting marvel!

Smash B

Enter the world of 1930's veterinary practice in the Yorkshire dales where a new and inexperienced vet arrives for his first job interview. Upon his first interview, he meets the absurdly optimistic and exuberantly hyperactive Siegfried Farnon, his future boss and close friend. Thus begins a heartwarming adventure as James Herriot narrates the daily events of veterinary practice peppering the story with drama, pathos, and hilarity infusing every aspect of this memoir with a distinctly warm voice of coziness as if to say that this is what life is really about. Caring for animals, both the strong and rugged farm animals of the Yorkshire dales, and the petite sophisticated pets of the towns' people that prefer to spend their languorous days lounging in the parlor, is simply in a day's work for Herriot and Siegfried as they travel across the wild beauty of Yorkshire sharing their triumphs and defeats. This is not simply a story concerning animals, but rather this epic classic describes, in elegant prose, a compelling history of the struggles and tribulations of life and, more importantly, the triumphs and joys and the fact that beauty abounds everywhere waiting to be discovered and appreciated. In a world filled with numerous novels concerning, and at times exalting misery and suffering, I found it especially refreshing to indulge in this cheerful narrative of the simple joys of life that effortlessly made the reader laugh and exult with the characters as they fulfilled their lives' dreams and shared this beautiful experience with generations of readers. If for no other reason, I hope that this review may stand as a testament to the gloriously happy moments of life that should be cherished and continually re-lived through memory as this serendipitous novel shall bestow its warmth through continuous reading. Truly, this volume shall be worn by endless generations of eager hands, preparing to enter a more simple world where the harsh relates of modern life can never intrude.

I fear that there are not enough words to describe how deeply effecting and emotionally satisfying I found this novel to be. The general atmosphere was one of peace, contentment, and at times laughably hilarious circumstances. The entire novel transported me to another era and, although I was not alive in the 1930's nor have I ever visited a Yorkshire farm, I felt an inexplicable sense of nostalgia. I felt as though I had trudged up the steep slopes of the moor at the early hours of the morning to attend an ailing cow, or had sat at the simple table of an honest farmer and sharing a savory `bit o' supper' with them. Although these experiences were alien to me before coming to this book, I now feel as though they are a part of my life, an essential element that I would feel incomplete without cherishing in my memory. The descriptions of the windswept and majestic vistas of Yorkshire were vivid and breathtakingly beautiful in a wild unkempt way causing me to greatly appreciate a region that I have never even seen.

The characters were charming and likable especially the ever amusing and paradoxical Siegfried whose energetic lectures, general lackadaisical attitude, and ever present bumbling mistakes, were a sheer pleasure to read; his charming, although irritating, personality was enjoyable to the extreme and the most obvious trait of his character was his complete lack of malice and generous, kindly spirit. He never failed to make me laugh with his energetic tirades and ill fated adventures. I found his character to be highly unique and vividly portrayed. However, his vibrant personality was not the only gem in this cornucopia of brightly shinning characters. Through his expert narration, Herriot allowed the readers an insight into his deep love of Yorkshire and of the independent nature of the hardened farmers, his devotion to veterinary practice, and his deep appreciation for beauty and gentleness, as well as his love for Helen. His portrayal of emotion was deeply affecting and extremely cozy. Also, the reader will be delighted to meet numerous other enchanting secondary characters and will be bemused by the occasional visits by the lively Granville Bennett whose exorbitant love of liquor and food transcends the boundaries of believability. I was extremely amused to the point of laughing aloud as the unsuspecting James was induced to visit Granville just to discover myriad pints of ale and towering sandwiches that would prove formidable to even the most devoted glutton. Also, be prepared to meet the lovable but apathetic Tristan who just can't seem to be bothered with any form of manual labor and who prefers to spend his relaxing evenings at the Drovers. As these delightful memoirs progress, James will meet the beautiful Helen whom he will later court and marry after many disastrously hilarious dates. So, prepare to laugh with the characters and join them on their splendiferous, hilarious, and distinctly cozy journey across the Yorkshire Dales.

The writing was expertly implemented and flowed effortlessly to create a tale of great beauty and serenity. The chosen style was erudite yet simple to comprehend and through many well chosen phrases the author was able to tug the heartstrings with amazing effectiveness. Each chapter flowed into the next to create a tale that I found myself unable to put down, and although I read this novel nearly three years ago, and almost never find myself re-reading even my most favorite tales, I was once again induced after finding this novel in my bookshelf and reading the first sentence to start the adventure all over again and share it with my family.

In conclusion, I will always cherish the memories I have of this novel and reading it with my family huddled around the fire place with a chubby feline purring in my lap. This tale was stunningly joyous and evokes memories of warm spring days spent outdoors or snowy winter evenings spent huddling by the glowing fire. Even those who are generally uninterested in novels will find this piece essential. Do not deprive yourself of this essentially cozy classic.

- Ravenova

I read it in ninth grade for school as part of a summer assignment and expected myself not to like it. Yet I found myself drawn to the characters and its theme. Each chapter tells a heart touching story and they all become part of Herriot's experience as an animal doctor. It was GREAT!

I love these type of memoirs. A person who is not boasting about their skill or having an attitude. Simply shares the love of his work and love of his county. All of James Herriot's books are wonderfull. I was introduced to the children's books a few years ago and just recently started reading his memoirs. Love it, some parts were a bit dry but the books still flowed well and drew you back. Love the depth of scenery and anicdotes about the area. Recommend any book of his.

This was a great book. I decided to read it because I like animals, and I'm so glad I did. I loved this book; it was really funny and exciting. I am definitaly going to read more of his books and watch the tv show if it's ever on anymore. I think triston is hilarious. I would reccomend reading this; it was great.

I'm mostly a fantasy scifi guy but I'm also an animal lover and I picked up this book on a whim. I wound up reading all the books in the series and ended up loving them all and wishing there were more. This guy can really write and tell a story. What a gifted man. Great Vet and Writer. I must read for all. You will laugh out loud and at times shed a tear. This is great stuff. You cant go wrong.

I have enjoyed reading this work over the years as well as the other books in the servies. This story, autobiographical, of a English Vet just before the war, and later, after the war, is truely one of the top gems to be published over the past fifty years as far as reading pleasure goes. The author is a natural story teller and truely a very, very good writer, actually, quite polished. I certainly won't go into the plot or the story here as many others have already done so, but will, as I have, remark of the skill of this writer and the enjoyment his stories bring. I admit to being one of those who have collected his work and tend to reread each book in the series ever so often. Highly recommend this work. I am sure you will enjoy it.

I am not a big reader, but I am a animal lover. This is my all time favorite book, I cant stop from re-reading the whole series over and over again. A lovely book to settle in with before bed, or on a rainy day.

All Creatures Great and Small was a wonderful book, definitely one of my favorites. It was about animals, which was what drew me to the book to begin with. The book draws you in, not really in a suspenseful way, but in a way that makes you just want to keep reading. Also, James Herriot tells wonderful stories and is willing to make fun of himself and situations he was in, some of which were his fault. It was fun getting to experience his first few years as a country vet along with him. You also get to witness his relationships with animals and the people around him. Plus, all the characters are realistic and you believe all the situations that they are in.
Even though there were a lot of good things about this book, there were also a few things that I did not like. The author was Scottish and he lived in Yorkshire so some of the language was kind of confusing and often you had to guess at what the words meant. In the beginning it was a little confusing, because usually each chapter talks about a different event in the authors life, but as you read you get used to that. Also, some parts of the book could get kind of long and repetitive, but most parts kept your attention quite well. Overall, I though it was a very, very good book that I would definitely recommend.

All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot and the other books in the series have been favorites of mine since I was a teenager. I love the individual stories about the animals, the laconic farmers, the flighty Siegfried and the irascible Tristan. I feel as though Trickie Woo is a part of my family, and the story about the thermometer disappearing into the cow is one of the funniest stories I've ever read.

These stories are delightful to read when you need a pick-me-up. Sometimes funny, sometimes sad, but always amusing, Herriot's love of the animals he serves comes through loud and clear. The only problem is that once I start reading them, I am unable to put them down!

I read James Herriot when I want to escape into his world,a world in which there are friendly farmers, amusing characters and a world with no malice even though a few humourous bungles occur.For a while I am infused with Herriot's love for this world, more forgiving of faults in folk, a very pleasant place to be in. I almost wish I could share in Herriot's rounds, treating animals, joining farmers in their kitchen for a friendly chat and a cup of tea. All his books are a real treat!

As an animal lover this was the most touching book on animals I have read since "Born Free." It evoked fond childhood memories of the fine TV series. The authors lively, heartwarming storytelling of his life as a Yorkshire Veterinarian was a cheerful read. His stories of animal and human interaction are something that I am sure most readers could relate to. They portray a man whose compassion and humor can actually inspire hope, even in our pessimistic age.

James Herriot doesn't just write in this novel. He picks the reader up and takes him or her along with him to his first traveling veterinary job. The stories run the gamut from sad to amusing with an emphasis on the latter and the writing is superb. I'm reading some other books by "authors" who don't have side jobs and they can't rival the mastery of writing that James Herriot exhibits in his very first novel.

This is an excellent book as are others in Herriot's collections. You can't go wrong. If you haven't read anything by Herriot, you're missing out. Start with this book and you'll want to keep a part of you in Herriot's world from now on.

I can't imagine a reader finishing this delightful tome without wishing he had become a veterinarian. The message from page to page is the writer's love for his profession. Herriot is such a sweet spirit in his relationship with family, friends, clients, partners and patients. Do yourself a favor and purchase this book; it'll give you several hours of smiles and chuckles.

This book is the template for great writing about animals. I have never found anyone who can top Herriott for combining humor, pathos, character study and warmth in the "animal" genre. . This is a book that will delight people of all ages forever. I'm sure Herriott has been the inspiration for many a veterinarian career. Every one of his books maintains the same consistently top-notch writing. A great holiday, birthday, anniversary, or any other occasion gift. I think I'll go back and read this book again right now!!

This book is the template for great writing about animals. I have never found anyone who can top Herriott for combining humor, pathos, character study and warmth in the "animal" genre. . This is a book that will delight people of all ages forever. I'm sure Herriott has been the inspiration for many a veterinarian career. Every one of his books maintains the same consistently top-notch writing. A great holiday, birthday, anniversary, or any other occasion gift. I think I'll go back and read this book again right now!!

I bought this book on CD to listen to on a long journey because I have read James Herriot and knew what I was getting with this book. This recording is superb. Christopher Timothy, who played James Herriot in the British television series, narrates and does a great job. Some people simply read the book for these recordings; Timothy, however, adds personality and depth to each character and really brings the stories to life. My whole family enjoyed listening and we have recommended it to several friends.

I bought this book on CD to listen to on a long journey because I have read James Herriot and knew what I was getting with this book. This recording is superb. Christopher Timothy, who played James Herriot in the British television series, narrates and does a great job. Some people simply read the book for these recordings; Timothy, however, adds personality and depth to each character and really brings the stories to life. My whole family enjoyed listening and we have recommended it to several friends.

The main character of the book is a precocious young veterinary surgeon that loves animals. James has extraordinary equanimity, but every now and then, it wears thin and snaps. James' employer, Siegfried Farnon is a very indecisive man that has a younger brother, Tristan. Tristan is often subject to Siegfried's wrath because de simply cannot do anything right. One may offer the opinion that it is unjust that Siegfried construes any of Tristan's actions as a crime, but Tristan is the car's worst night-mere and makes mangles wrecks of any automobile he comes across. Although much rancor is exchanged between the Farnon brothers, they manage to iron out their wrinkles after a while.
Siegfried, however is a world of his own. This is because his great moral rectitude is patience. Siegfried constantly takes of a saintly expression and is completely prepared to forgive James for something he did himself. The irony this book contains will supply endless enjoyment.
Every now and then, James meets a contemptuous client such as Mr. Sidlow. The Sidlows hold an exceptional disdain for veterinary surgeons in general. This is because they have a habit of perpetually using medieval remedies on their livestock like shoving raw onions up the rectum before calling a vet out to see the moribund animal once there is no hope of alleviation.
One thing this book talks about is the bars that James and Tristan go to for relief. These are not the cacophonous bars you see today. Generally, the bars are small establishments that farmers make for a little extra income.
If there's one thing veterinary surgery isn't, it's monotonous. Never will you find an onerous chapter in this volume. Even though this book is retroactive, contemporary young men and women will find it packed with loving fun and hilarity. I venture to say that the story telling ability of the author transcends many a skilled writer. This is a good book for any precocious youth.

The main character of the book is a precocious young veterinary surgeon that loves animals. James has extraordinary equanimity, but every now and then, it wears thin and snaps. James' employer, Siegfried Farnon is a very indecisive man that has a younger brother, Tristan. Tristan is often subject to Siegfried's wrath because de simply cannot do anything right. One may offer the opinion that it is unjust that Siegfried construes any of Tristan's actions as a crime, but Tristan is the car's worst night-mere and makes mangles wrecks of any automobile he comes across. Although much rancor is exchanged between the Farnon brothers, they manage to iron out their wrinkles after a while.
Siegfried, however is a world of his own. This is because his great moral rectitude is patience. Siegfried constantly takes of a saintly expression and is completely prepared to forgive James for something he did himself. The irony this book contains will supply endless enjoyment.
Every now and then, James meets a contemptuous client such as Mr. Sidlow. The Sidlows hold an exceptional disdain for veterinary surgeons in general. This is because they have a habit of perpetually using medieval remedies on their livestock like shoving raw onions up the rectum before calling a vet out to see the moribund animal once there is no hope of alleviation.
One thing this book talks about is the bars that James and Tristan go to for relief. These are not the cacophonous bars you see today. Generally, the bars are small establishments that farmers make for a little extra income.
If there's one thing veterinary surgery isn't, it's monotonous. Never will you find an onerous chapter in this volume. Even though this book is retroactive, contemporary young men and women will find it packed with loving fun and hilarity. I venture to say that the story telling ability of the author transcends many a skilled writer. This is a good book for any precocious youth.

This book is a timeless treasure; a masterpiece of folksy writing that just draws you in and makes you feel truly comfortable. You can just see yourself watching in the background and Herriot tackles everything from delivering young lambs to minor surgery on horses. A reader feels connected in a way that is remarkable.

I have no idea how many times I've read this book in the last 10 years, but I've no doubt that I'll continue to read it on occasion for as long as I draw breath.

Just a marvelous adventure.

This book is a timeless treasure; a masterpiece of folksy writing that just draws you in and makes you feel truly comfortable. You can just see yourself watching in the background and Herriot tackles everything from delivering young lambs to minor surgery on horses. A reader feels connected in a way that is remarkable.

I have no idea how many times I've read this book in the last 10 years, but I've no doubt that I'll continue to read it on occasion for as long as I draw breath.

Just a marvelous adventure.

There's an irony in the fact that this book I always found so calming and happy, that made everything on earth seem perfectly all right to me whenever I read it during bad times or good, is actually set during an era when trouble was brewing in Europe and the Third Reich was on the rise, destined to end this wondrous little world forever. That fact aside, I love this book. It is plainly magical. The stories here about James Herriot and his life as a rural veterinarian in 1930's Yorkshire radiate joy. Herriot knows how to tell a heartwarming, funny tale, but he never lets us forget that a country animal doctor's life is hard, sometimes tinged with sadness, and that even in a lovely place like the farming midlands tragedy is never far away. He practices veterinary medicine in a small town and out on the little family farms that dot the dales. His boss Seigfried (later his partner) and Seigfried's jovial brother Tristan work beside James as they answer midnight calls to birth calves, stitch up injured sows, and partner with the local farmers to keep England's agricultural concerns feeding the nation. Around these duties, James has assorted adventures and is a time or two lead astray by the charming, well-meaning but definitely problem-prone Tristan, who with his skirt chasing and love of the odd pint is perpetually in danger of flunking out of vet school. These lovable men allow us to come along as they mingle with some of the most amazing characters ever seen in fiction. They work with farmers who live in such isolation they have in some cases never been five miles from their own homes, and Herriot's prose celebrates their glorious idiosyncrasies. The vets are also cared for by the stern no-nonsense Mrs. Hall, whose stoical outer features hide a heart of gold within her gray-haired workaholic frame. This novel, set over about two years at the very end of the 1930's always brightens my day. It makes me wish things were still like that somewhere in this world today. (And that I could go there.)

There's an irony in the fact that this book I always found so calming and happy, that made everything on earth seem perfectly all right to me whenever I read it during bad times or good, is actually set during an era when trouble was brewing in Europe and the Third Reich was on the rise, destined to end this wondrous little world forever. That fact aside, I love this book. It is plainly magical. The stories here about James Herriot and his life as a rural veterinarian in 1930's Yorkshire radiate joy. Herriot knows how to tell a heartwarming, funny tale, but he never lets us forget that a country animal doctor's life is hard, sometimes tinged with sadness, and that even in a lovely place like the farming midlands tragedy is never far away. He practices veterinary medicine in a small town and out on the little family farms that dot the dales. His boss Seigfried (later his partner) and Seigfried's jovial brother Tristan work beside James as they answer midnight calls to birth calves, stitch up injured sows, and partner with the local farmers to keep England's agricultural concerns feeding the nation. Around these duties, James has assorted adventures and is a time or two lead astray by the charming, well-meaning but definitely problem-prone Tristan, who with his skirt chasing and love of the odd pint is perpetually in danger of flunking out of vet school. These lovable men allow us to come along as they mingle with some of the most amazing characters ever seen in fiction. They work with farmers who live in such isolation they have in some cases never been five miles from their own homes, and Herriot's prose celebrates their glorious idiosyncrasies. The vets are also cared for by the stern no-nonsense Mrs. Hall, whose stoical outer features hide a heart of gold within her gray-haired workaholic frame. This novel, set over about two years at the very end of the 1930's always brightens my day. It makes me wish things were still like that somewhere in this world today. (And that I could go there.)

There's an irony in the fact that this book I always found so calming and happy, that made everything on earth seem perfectly all right to me whenever I read it during bad times or good, is actually set during an era when trouble was brewing in Europe and the Third Reich was on the rise, destined to end this wondrous little world forever. That fact aside, I love this book. It is plainly magical. The stories here about James Herriot and his life as a rural veterinarian in 1930's Yorkshire radiate joy. Herriot knows how to tell a heartwarming, funny tale, but he never lets us forget that a country animal doctor's life is hard, sometimes tinged with sadness, and that even in a lovely place like the farming midlands tragedy is never far away. He practices veterinary medicine in a small town and out on the little family farms that dot the dales. His boss Seigfried (later his partner) and Seigfried's jovial brother Tristan work beside James as they answer midnight calls to birth calves, stitch up injured sows, and partner with the local farmers to keep England's agricultural concerns feeding the nation. Around these duties, James has assorted adventures and is a time or two lead astray by the charming, well-meaning but definitely problem-prone Tristan, who with his skirt chasing and love of the odd pint is perpetually in danger of flunking out of vet school. These lovable men allow us to come along as they mingle with some of the most amazing characters ever seen in fiction. They work with farmers who live in such isolation they have in some cases never been five miles from their own homes, and Herriot's prose celebrates their glorious idiosyncrasies. The vets are also cared for by the stern no-nonsense Mrs. Hall, whose stoical outer features hide a heart of gold within her gray-haired workaholic frame. This novel, set over about two years at the very end of the 1930's always brightens my day. It makes me wish things were still like that somewhere in this world today. (And that I could go there.)

Wonderful stories about farm life in rural Engkand as Herriott lived it, as a young veterinarian. His stories are amusing and " feel-good" all at the same time. Great stories for all animal lovers.

Wonderful stories about farm life in rural Engkand as Herriott lived it, as a young veterinarian. His stories are amusing and " feel-good" all at the same time. Great stories for all animal lovers.

James Herriot's books are just plain wonderful. I own them all and have read them again and again. I must say, though, this is my favorite. I've seen a bit of the BBC series and it doesn't do the books justice. Herriot draws you into his world and makes it come alive in a way that is truly remarkable. I have ZERO experience with this time period or with veterinary medicine, yet, I find Herriot's descriptions of and insights into his world uplifting and fascinating. Buy the whole set, and don't miss his adaptations for children. (The heavy drinking and womanizing of some of the characters make the originals inappropriate for very young readers.)

James Herriot's books are just plain wonderful. I own them all and have read them again and again. I must say, though, this is my favorite. I've seen a bit of the BBC series and it doesn't do the books justice. Herriot draws you into his world and makes it come alive in a way that is truly remarkable. I have ZERO experience with this time period or with veterinary medicine, yet, I find Herriot's descriptions of and insights into his world uplifting and fascinating. Buy the whole set, and don't miss his adaptations for children. (The heavy drinking and womanizing of some of the characters make the originals inappropriate for very young readers.)

I first became acquainted with the "All Creatures" series written by James Herriot as a high school student writing a theme paper for my British literature class. After reading the first installment I quickly read through the rest of the series " All Things Bright and Beautiful, All Things Wise and Wonderful, The Lord God Made Them All". The plot centers around James Herriot, a newly qualified veternarian and his employment as assistant veternarian to Siegfried Farnon in the village of Darrowby. You will also meet a cast of colorful characters, Tristian Farnon, Siegfried's younger brother, Helen Alderson, Mrs. Hall, Mrs. Pumphrey and her Pekinese, Tricky-Woo,and a host of other colorful characters who make this a memorable read. James Herriot has also authored several other books, each one stands on its own merit and are a treasure for your family library. The BBC also produced the series " All Creatures Great and Small" for television in the late 1970's. The series is a masterpiece! I would highly recommend watching the episodes as you read through the books. The books/series are fantastic family entertainment!

I first became acquainted with the "All Creatures" series written by James Herriot as a high school student writing a theme paper for my British literature class. After reading the first installment I quickly read through the rest of the series " All Things Bright and Beautiful, All Things Wise and Wonderful, The Lord God Made Them All". The plot centers around James Herriot, a newly qualified veternarian and his employment as assistant veternarian to Siegfried Farnon in the village of Darrowby. You will also meet a cast of colorful characters, Tristian Farnon, Siegfried's younger brother, Helen Alderson,Mrs. Hall,Mrs. Pumphrey and her Pekinese, Tricky-Woo,and a host of other colorful characters who make this a memorable read. James Herriot has also authored several other books, each one stands on its own merit and are a treasure for your family library. The BBC also produced the series " All Creatures Great and Small" for television in the late 1970's. The series is a masterpiece! I would highly recommend watching the episodes as you read through the books. The books/series are fantastic family entertainment!

The life of a country Veterinarian may sound quite unexciting, and rather boring. However, it is anything but, and that is proven by the tales that James Herriot (aka James Wight) tells about his time working in a small Yorkshire Village as just that. Straight out of University, James is given a position as assistant to resident Veterinarian Siegfried Farnon - a quirky fellow with very short-term memory. Through tales of strange animals and even stranger people he has met up with, Dr. Herriot weaves together a marvelous story that will make you laugh, cry, and so much more. A lovely book for animal lovers.

Erika Sorocco
Book Review Columnist for The Community Bugle Newspaper

The life of a country Veterinarian may sound quite unexciting, and rather boring. However, it is anything but, and that is proven by the tales that James Herriot (aka James Wight) tells about his time working in a small Yorkshire Village as just that. Straight out of University, James is given a position as assistant to resident Veterinarian Siegfried Farnon - a quirky fellow with very short-term memory. Through tales of strange animals and even stranger people he has met up with, Dr. Herriot weaves together a marvelous story that will make you laugh, cry, and so much more. A lovely book for animal lovers.

Erika Sorocco
Book Review Columnist for The Community Bugle Newspaper