The Art of Listening to the Heart

by James Kenyon

In this memoir collection, retired veterinarian James Kenyon recalls his days in veterinary practice. From heartwarming to heartbreaking and everything in between, Kenyon writes of his care for beloved family pets, livestock, and their human caretakers. His memories illustrate a true devotion and love for veterinary work, as well as a passion for people and local history. Each chapter relates a specific memory of working with a quirky, loyal, and loveable animal, as well as the quirky, loyal, and lovable humans who owned them. The work offers not just insight into the work of a veterinarian, but to human nature and the manner in which people relate to and care for each other, as well as their animals.

184 pages, Paperback

Published May 17, 2022

Reviews

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

I came across Dr. Kenyon in Anchorage. He was hanging out with Rod Perry, a pioneer of the Iditarod race. Perry was bringing attention to the proposed Iditarod Historical district, and selling his own book. He told me that James' book made him cry, and reminded him of "All Creatures Great and Small."
Kenyon did, indeed, model his stories of rural veterinary practice in Iowa, in the 1970s and 1980s, after James Herriot's books. The stories were sweet, occasionally sad, and often humorous. I actually listened to the audiobook, but that version wasn't available to review.

[Nancy Standafer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great afternoon read

This book was truly a Jim Kenyon original. His warmth, his sense of humor and his caring personality were evident in each vignette. Knowing him and knowing some of his clients made this a very memorable read.