I love stories with pets in them, and when the pets have a voice, it’s even better. Just last week, my novel The Queen’s faithful companion has been published. Sharing with you the incredible story of Queen Elizabeth’s relationship with her corgi, Susan, has been one of the greatest joys of my writing career. Susan was a gift to the Queen from her father on her 18th birthday, and their love knew no bounds – sometimes literally. Princess Elizabeth took Susan on her honeymoon, and surprised her husband by digging a tunnel out from under the blanket where the corgi had been hiding.
Fictional pets are popular because of the deep bond, the unconditional love we experience with our pets. That bond can sometimes be better than the human relationship between pets. Animals don’t judge people, at least most animals don’t. I have received sidelong glances from one of my dogs, though. Pets forgive easily, except for cats. Pets are quirky, they’re fun, and I think reading about them is the most fun because we relate to the stories and they make us feel adorable, hopeful, and happy. It can also be entertaining because we get into the dog’s mind and see the world from their perspective.
If you’re looking to buy some great fiction books featuring pets for the summer, be sure to check out this fun list, and of course add Susan’s stories to your list.
“Operation Happy” by Jenni L. Walsh
Although this book is aimed at middle schoolers, I think there are many adults out there, including myself, who will love this story and its hopeful message. From the publisher: As World War II looms in her backyard, a young girl tries to cope with the war and keep her family together by accomplishing her goals with the help of her best friend, her dog, Happy. Told from the dog’s perspective and inspired by the real-life experiences of a Pearl Harbor survivor, this historical middle grade novel will inspire readers ages 8-12 to find courage in any situation.
Dog Friendly by Victoria Schade
It’s the perfect book to read at the beach. We all need to reset every now and then, and in this book, one way to do so is by caring for a puppy. From the publisher: A tired veterinarian takes a much-needed beach getaway, where a charming surfer stirs up waves in her love life and a unique adoptable puppy renews her passion for her job.
By Ann Garvin “I thought I told you this would work”
My interest in road tripping was piqued, and my best friends made it even more so. I love books about friendship, and when I heard about a story about rescuing a Great Pyrenees, I was hooked. A message from the publisher: A road trip can push anyone to their limits, especially two former best friends. From bestselling author Anne Garvin comes a funny, moving novel about broken bonds, complicated pasts, and the power of forgiveness.
Amazingly Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
For me, the star of this book is Marcellus the octopus. He is so clever and cunning and I love him! From the publisher: A man called OveA charming, witty and addictive exploration of friendship, reckoning and hope, it follows a widow’s unlikely connection to a giant Pacific octopus.
Chemistry Lessons by Bonnie Garmus
6:30, Time, Not Dogs, is the perfect fit for this charming, heartfelt and funny novel. It was fun to see his perspective on the world around him, especially on humans. From the Publisher: Chemist Elizabeth Szodt is no ordinary woman. In fact, Elizabeth Szodt would be the first to point out that there is no such thing as an ordinary woman. But it’s the early 1960s, and her all-male team at the Hastings Laboratory has some very unscientific views on equality. There is one exception: Calvin Evans. Lonely, brilliant, and a Nobel Prize-winning grudge, he falls head over heels in love with her. True chemistry ensues.