James Herriot's account of his veterinary experience in Yorkshire … can give a higher boost to morale than alcohol, drugs, or a visit to the doctor. These books start in World War I and take place in Yorkshire, England, a harsh region of the country which produces hardy folk who endure. Herriot's understated and uncomplaining lot is ameliorated by his sense of humor and steered by his sensitivity. The author's matter-of-fact recounting of hardship, study, and practice displays courageous fortitude. He shows a sympathy and love for the animals he treats. This unusual vicarious experience helps the reader climb out of his or her own private Slough of Despond. The reader will be stunned by the amount of hardship encountered as a matter of course; one's own lot is bound to be better by comparison. Herriot's writings epitomize the process of bibliotherapy: they are written in love; they can be used to inspire, to nurture, to brighten and to help the reader endure. Nature, being neither kind nor unkind in this objective view, can be a balancer of thought. "Coping behavior" may generally be increased; this reading can patch up the human spirit. (p. 57)
Joy K. Roy, in English Journal (copyright © 1979 by the National Council of Teachers of English), March, 1979.
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