OnlineBookClub.org

An autobiography, All Creatures Great and Small was written by James Herriot, audiobook narrated by Christopher Timothy, and is close to 16 hours of listening. Narration by Timothy is great, no issues and a pleasant listen.

A Norman Rockwell painting in print, or possibly A Prairie Home Companion radio broadcast, this story tells us of an innocent world cover to cover. No murder, no bad language, no sex, a clean … really clean … story. Depending on perspective, All Creatures Great and Small is young adult, although the story has moments of eloquent prose a seasoned reader will enjoy. Settings and environmental detail is nicely conveyed – you’ll smell the barn.

The story begins early in Jim Herriot’s life as a rural veterinarian and ends with his marriage just prior to WWII. The book is a compilation of short stories, Jim’s adventures as a vet, i.e., birthing pigs and cows, turning a foal in the womb, being “uncle” to a wealthy woman’s Pekinese and pet pig, and eccentric farmers pouring out old wives tales of animal cures. Example: Cut off the tail of a cow to let the worm out. Jim keeps a straight face through such advice if he wants to keep the farmer as a customer.

There are sequels to All Creatures Great and Small, a BBC television series, etc., it’s been around a long time – mid 1970s. A great story for a family read and discussion, or a gift for any animal lover. Just a lovely story. Enjoy.

I treasure this story. It's on my "favorites" shelf. Typically gore or detailed descriptions of the insides of the human body turn my stomach, but when James Herriot talks about lathering up to help deliver a calf... I couldn't put the book down.

I also enjoyed the clean nature of the book. His romance is sweet and endearing, if awkward at first! Its one that warmed my heart, and taught me something, and I feel as though its a part of this world tucked away in history and forgotten.

Thank you for posting on it! Reading your thoughts on it made my day.

I’ve not gone through the sequels, yet. But plan to because I imagine they are equally as good - same author, same narrator of audiobooks.

You’re right, this story is a treasure.

I read this book years ago in high school. I could not remember the author's name. I just remembered that the title was a line of a hymn. It is a good book.

My dad read this out loud to me and my brother when we were young. We loved it. I did really like the BBC adaptation, too.

I read this book and would love to read the sequels. I was literally in tears laughing so hard when he tried out the new age calving suit. It was just so moving in so many ways.

May I ask what you found so pleasant about the audiobook? Is it the voice itself, is he expressive?

I haven't read the follow-ups yet. However, I intend to since I'm sure they're just as good—the same author and narrator for the audiobooks, that is.

Wow.. thanks for the insights into this book I will be on the lookout for it.

This seems interesting. I love reading adventurous books. I think this will be one if them. I will consider it this weekend.
I hope it is good as you suggested.

I haven't read this yet but I will consider giving it a try. Thanks for your suggestion.

I have never read it! Though it sounds so interesting and deep. I'd love to see what it has to offer, seems thought provoking.