Macmillan Publishers will release The Wonderful World of James Herriot, which provides insights into the renowned vet’s life and work from his children, Rosie and Jim, next month.
According to the publishing company, this is a “charming” new autobiography which combines stories from the “heartwarming” Herriot books with the story of Alf Wight, the real James Herriot, through his early life and career.
James Herriot was the pen name of James Alfred ‘Alf’ Wight, whose tales of veterinary practice and country life in the Yorkshire Dales have delighted generations.
Many of Herriot’s works, including All Creatures Great and Small and All Things Bright and Beautiful, became international bestsellers and producers have adapted them for film and television.
James Herriot
A spokesperson for the company said: “His children, Jim Wright – who was a vet – and Rosie Page – who became a doctor – have done a charming introduction for the book.”
“With great warmth, they discuss his friendship with the real Siegfried, how Alf came to start writing, the success of the books and the subsequent TV series and how Alf always preferred to be with his animals than in the spotlight.”
“With astute observations and boundless humour, Herriot captures the spirit of the Yorkshire Dales and of rural communities on the cusp of change, before tractors and machines had taken over, and modern medicines and antibiotics transformed veterinary work.”
“Along the way, a beloved cast of characters emerges, from the squabbling brothers Tristan and Siegfried to Herriot’s hapless courtship and eventual family life with Helen Anderson. But it’s the animals which are at the heart of Herriot’s stories.”
“Whether he is dodging a raging bull on a risky artificial insemination assignment, becoming pen pals with Tricki Woo, the spoilt Pikingese or the inevitable trials and tribulations of lambing season, there’s never a dull moment in Herriot’s company.”
“At times moving and often laugh-out-loud funny, The Wonderful World of James Herriot will delight fans old and new. This is the perfect gift for all fans of All Creatures Great and Small,” the spokesperson concluded.
The book is available to purchase for £22.00 from October 27th, 2022.
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