Animals have played a huge part in history. They often do amazing things and help in ways that can change people’s lives. Since we love nonfiction books and we love animals, we thought we would share a few of our favorite nonfiction books all about animals.
The Zookeepers Wife
I love World War II stories and animal stories, so this was a definite read for me. This is a true story with amazing people in it. This story connected with Irene’s Children which I also really enjoyed. There were many interacting events that were described in both stories which give you a good view of what it would have been like in Poland during the German occupation. If you enjoy WWII stories and animal stories like I do this is a must read!
Elephant Company
Elephant Company was one of my favorite books of 2015. It is half war book and half animal book. This is a look at a part of the world during WWII that very few people know about. We read a lot about Europe, Japan, and the Nazis, but this book takes us into the lives of those living in Burma during WWII. I had trouble putting this book down once I started reading it. It is an amazing story of animals and what they can do. If you love WWII books this is a must read! This books is graphic in a few parts so I would say it is for older teens and adults.
Rin Tin Tin
This book is a great way to learn a lot about the history of not only this dog, but other movie dogs like Lassie. It talks not only about the movie and TV show business, but about silent pictures and animals importance in them. This is a great read for animal lovers and those who enjoy learning about different parts of history and film.
All Creatures Great and Small
Herriot’s tale, which he weaves in All Creatures Great and Small, is very entertaining. He shows that being a vet, especially in the 1930s, is not for everyone. He discusses his entrance into being a real vet and his interesting mentor. I love the stories that Herriot writes about.
Flash: The Homeless Donkey
This is such an adorable book. Flash, the odd donkey, creates a lot of laughs and frowns. He is quiet the character and helps the main character realize many things throughout the book.
The Eighty Dollar Champion
Snowman’s story allows a reader to understand more about show jumping in the 50s and 60s. This book is good because it is about a poorer immigrant who was able to purchase a cheap horse that eventually became a champion jumper. This story not only encourages people to strive for more, but it also shows how this horse changed horse jumping.
Thunder Dog
A True Story of a blind man and his guide dog. This book creates a good perspective on what people were experiencing on 9/11 and how it is to be blind and use a guide dog. This is a good book for teens and adults.
Do you have a favorite animal story? Leave a comment letting us know what books about animals you would recommend.