9 Works of Nonfiction That Are Perfect for Animal Lovers

9 Works of Non-Fiction That Are Perfect for Animal Lovers

8 Great Films About Animals

1. The Incredible Journey (1963)
2. Babe (1995)
3. Turner & Hooch (1989)
4. War Horse (2011)
5. Bambi (1942)
6. The Adventures of Milo and Otis (1986)
7. We Bought a Zoo (2011)
8. March of the Penguins (2005)

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In Depth

Growing up, a lot of people develop a natural affinity for animals, and most of us have owned at least one pet at some point in our lives. Whether you want to learn more about how wild creatures behave around humans or are just interested in other pet owner's experiences with their faithful companions, there are many engaging books out there that are sure to satisfy your curiosity. With that said, we've gathered nine works of nonfiction that are perfect for animal lovers. Take note that this list is done in no particular order.

First up, at #1, we have "Tamed and Untamed" by Sy Montgomery and Elizabeth Marshall Thomas. It's a collection of essays about various topics, such as how animals communicate with one another and how domestic pets familiarize themselves with their surroundings. The book is divided into several chapters that each focus on different types of animals, ranging from dogs to octopi, and readers are sure to learn something new from the authors' extensive research and personal experiences.

Next, at #2, is "The Underdogs" by Melissa Fay Greene. It tells the story of Karen Shirk, a woman suffering from a severe neuromuscular disease who had to raise her own service dog, since no company was willing to provide her one. The book also covers the origin of Shirk's organization, 4 Paws for Ability, which trains service dogs for people in need, regardless of the severity of their disabilities. It's an inspiring tale that provides some insight on how animals feel emotions.

It tells the story of Karen Shirk, a woman suffering from a severe neuromuscular disease who had to raise her own service dog, since no company was willing to provide her one.

At #3 is "Elephant Company" by Vicki Constantine Croke. This book explores the life of James Howard Williams who, after serving in World War I, moved to Burma and started working for a British teak company. There, he became increasingly fascinated by the elephants that they used to transport wood. When the Japanese invaded Burma in 1942, Williams used his experience to lead a group of elephants and refugees to safety, helping Allied forces by building bridges along the way.

Next up, at #4, we have "The Great Penguin Rescue" by Dyan deNapoli. The author recounts the sinking of the MV Treasure cargo ship on June 23, 2000, during which over 1,300 tons of oil spilled into the ocean, threatening to kill thousands of endangered African penguins. The book describes the massive rescue operation that aimed to cleanse and rehabilitate the contaminated birds. It's a heartbreaking yet inspiring story that details the efforts of over twelve thousand volunteers from all around the world.

At #5 is "Pukka" by Ted Kerasote. Told from the perspective of the eponymous puppy, it chronicles the first six months of his life after being adopted by Kerasote. Each page contains a photograph along with short sentences that describe what Pukka was thinking or doing at the time. Dog lovers and children are sure to enjoy this picture book, which also provides some insight on how one should raise a puppy.

Each page contains a photograph along with short sentences that describe what Pukka was thinking or doing at the time.

Next, at #6, is "The Sibley Guide to Birds" by David Allen Sibley. It's a field guide that covers over 800 different bird species in North America. Thousands of beautiful illustrations make it easy to differentiate each of the species from one another, and Sibley provides detailed information about their measurements, migration routes, and even voice. Novice birdwatchers are sure to appreciate the wealth of information shared by the author, and even more experienced birders will probably learn something new.

At #7 is "It's a Wild Life" by Bud DeYoung with Cindy Martinusen Coloma. Ever since he was a child, Bud loved taking care of wild critters. Over the years, his passion for animals has caused him to rescue all sorts of creatures, which led to him building a private zoo around his home. In his book, the author writes about how he built up his collection of rescued animals and the many challenges that he and his partner Carrie face every day.

Next, at #8, is "On Trails" by Robert Moor. After completing a long hiking trip back in 2009, Moor started wondering how and why people create trails. As he writes about his adventures around the world, the author discusses the history and cultural significance of several prominent hiking paths. Throughout the book, Moor also reflects on how the concept of trails can be applied to animal movement, citing herds of sheep and elephants as examples.

As he writes about his adventures around the world, the author discusses the history and cultural significance of several prominent hiking paths.

Finally, at #9, we have "A Dog Named Leaf" by Allen and Linda Anderson. When the Andersons first adopted Leaf, he was an emotionally unstable canine. As the couple tries to adjust to life with their new, troubled pet, Allen is diagnosed with an unruptured brain aneurysm and must undergo a very risky surgery. Allen describes how his affection towards Leaf helped both of them recover from their anxieties, and fellow pet owners are sure to enjoy this heartwarming and relatable story.