Book Review
Pieces Of My Heart - Writings Inspired by Animals and Nature
by Jim Willis
Publisher: Infinity Publishing, Inc.
ISBN: 0-7414-1015-X
Ordering Information: Click here
Web Site: http://www.crean.com/jimwillis/
Book Review by your Guide, Janet Crosby Tobiassen DVM

Guide Rating -

I believe in Jim Willis.

That statement, in a nutshell, is my book review. I realize that this is a bit... well... unconventional, but after mulling over this review for several days, that statement captures how I feel about this book and Jim Willis as a person.

In the preface of this book, Willis describes his childhood and obvious lack of "real pets". Due to family finances and his parent's physical handicaps, Willis writes that he was only able to "make do with turtles, fish and the much over-rated "sea monkeys"" as pets. His Mom promised him that he could have as many pets as he wanted when he grew up. Years later, when Willis was a teen, his Mom helped him secure a volunteer position at a local shelter so he could work with animals. This is where he witnessed many unwanted, abused, neglected, and sick animals perish in the gas chambers and he vowed to make a difference in the lives of animals everywhere.

Now Willis is an adult, and he has surpassed expectations on both counts -- he has many pets of his own, and he has rescued hundreds more with his work in the rescue field and by his writings, enlightening people around the world about the plight of animals. With his wife Nicole, Willis started the Tiergarten Sanctuary Trust, a rescue and adoption service for abused, neglected, and otherwise unwanted animals.

I am an avid reader and animal lover. I have read tons of 'animal stories' over the years. I was perhaps a bit cynical to think that there could be anything really new in this genre. Willis proved me wrong. His writings have educated me, made me laugh, reminded me of my own cherished pets who are waiting at the Bridge, and showed me a new perspective on familiar scenes.

Willis is perhaps best known for a piece titled, "How Could You?" about a dog's happy life with his person. As the man matures, marries, has kids - generally moves on through life as we all do - the dog is less and less of an important feature in the man's life, finally being 'disposed' of at the local shelter. This isn't a third person sad story. No, it is from the perspective of the loving, loyal, and trusting dog. Happy that his human has found happiness and ultimately wishing him well. This piece has been translated into several languages, read aloud on the radio, even featured as a full page ad in a US newspaper. This piece has educated thousands to think about consequences and to remember all that pets bring to our lives.

Willis also shows his humorous side with pieces such as "You Weren't The One I Wanted" and offers hope in such pieces as "I Am!" and "The Animal's Savior".

True to form, Willis offers concrete ways for readers of the book to get educated, get involved, and to help animals in need. Start at home - love and exercise your own pets. Move on from there. He offers several creative ideas in the book appendix. This book also features a comprehensive Internet directory of animal resources.

Additionally, Willis has made a special arrangement with Infinity Publishing in the US and Authors On Line in the UK so that all animal-related, conservation, environmental, and advocacy groups may order Pieces of My Heart for resale (five copies or more) at the same 40% discount that booksellers receive. Domestic Shipping will be free on orders of 20 or more copies from the respective publishers. Funds made from selling the book will be used to help the animal efforts of the group.

So, I believe in Jim Willis. I believe that he has made a huge contribution to the welfare of animals in our world. I believe that he will continue do to so. I believe that other people will learn how they can help animals in their lives and community. And... I believe that the animals are thankful for his work.

MORE:
Official web site for this book
The Jim Willis Collection - as featured in The Viewer Viewpoint
Jim Willis Made Me Do It
Read how your Guide was influenced by his work in "real life" and how you can help animals in your community.

Related Reviews:
About.com Cats - Guide Review
Read other reviews and order this book online from Amazon

Text: Copyright © Janet Tobiassen Crosby. All rights reserved.

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