This August/September column could easily have been written with the expected themes of travel, the beach or going back to school — so I decided to focus on something different. Did you know that, among the many observances to choose from, August is Happiness Happens Month and September is Responsible Dog Ownership Month? Happiness and “man’s best friend.” Can’t go too wrong with that! Hope this sample of titles, found in Montgomery County Public Libraries, will have you smiling (or wagging).
Once a Wolf: the Science Behind Our Dogs’ Astonishing Genetic Evolution
by Bryan Sykes
Brian Sykes was a science writer, British geneticist and Emeritus professor of human genetics at Oxford University who pioneered DNA retrieval from ancient bones. Sykes took his studies one step further in this work by discussing how forty thousand years ago in the area of Romania the fateful and historic meeting of two different aggressive carnivorous species, Canis lupus and Homo sapiens, made the astonishing evolutionary journey from initial enemies to vital allies. This symbiotic relationship not only allowed both species to survive despite extremely harsh winters, it transformed the genetic codes of both species.
Sykes maintains that the three known factors that allowed Homo sapiens to rule the planet — the control of fire, the evolution of language, and the development of agriculture — are incomplete without that fourth factor. It’s our special relationship with the species lupus that allowed humans to have dominion over the earth.
Happiness for Beginners
by Carole Matthews
Meet Tina Turner the sassy alpaca, Teacup the NOT miniature pig, and other rescued animals and students on Hope Farm. A poignant and hilarious romcom.
James Herriot’s Dog Stories
by James Herriot
Like “All Creatures Great and Small,” Herriot envelopes the reader in wholesome warmth like a blanket on a cold day. Curl up with these vignettes!
A Fool’s Guide to Actual Happiness
by Mark Van Buren
Personal trainer and health and wellness instructor Van Buran’s approachable writing style ambles the reader down the path to discovering their own natural happiness.