7 books all animal lovers must read

It's always a good time to sink your teeth into a new (or old) book. If you're an animal lover, why not read something that uses our furry friends to get an important message across? Here's our top picks:

George Orwell’s Animal Farm

“All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others” Orwell’s twisted, political, farmyard fable may be more relevant than ever. Published nearly 75 years ago, this classic is still a riveting page turner.

Watership Down by Richard Adams

What is the true cost of safety, and how do our human actions actually effect the complex ecosystems around us? These are some of the questions you’ll be forced to think about whilst following a group of rabbits on their journey to find a new home. Along the way, the rabbits find themselves in some pretty sticky situations.

Marley and Me by John Grogan

*Warning, it’s a tear jerker.

Many of you will be familiar with the movie starring Jenifer Aniston and Owen Wilson, but the book is a must-read for any dog owner. Journalist, John Grogan recounts the 13 years he and his family spent with their Labrador retriever, Marley. This autobiography takes you on a real journey filled laughter, excitement and tears. If this book teaches you anything, it’s to treasure the moment.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon

Following the mysterious murder of a neighbour’s dog, 15 year old Christopher plans to catch the killer. Christopher relates well to animals but has no understanding of human emotions. He can name every country in the world, their capital and every prime number up to 7,057. Using the style of his favourite detective, Sherlock Holmes, Christopher’s investigation takes some fascinating turns.  

Life of Pi by Yann Martel

Pi must try and survive on a lifeboat alone with a bengal tiger in the middle of the ocean. This book explores the mysteries of the human condition and spirituality. Buckle in, this one has an ending that will blow your mind.

Some We Love, Some We Hate, Some We Eat: Why It’s So Hard to Think Straight About Animals by Hal Herzog

"Hal Herzog, a maverick scientist and leader in the field of anthro-zoology, offers a controversial, thought-provoking, and unprecedented exploration of the psychology behind the inconsistent and often paradoxical ways we think, feel, and behave towards animals."

Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl

Okay, so you’ve probably all read this at some point in your life; whether it was as a child or to a child. We highly recommend re-reading this short and witty tale, centred on Mr. Fox and his family who try to survive starvation against three wicked farmers. Whilst this books appears as a children’s story, it is very much also (if not more) for adults. Mr. Fox struggles with many family issues, including not being able to understand his son and feeling poor. Once you’re done reading, go and watch the film adaptation by Wes Anderson.