I’ve always adored stories that included pets in them, even better when the pet has a voice. Just this past week, my own novel The Queen’s Faithful Companion was published. Getting to share the wonderful story that is Queen Elizabeth’s relationship with her corgi Susan was one of the greatest joys of my writing career. Susan was gifted to the queen on her eighteenth birthday by her father, and their fondness for each other knew no bounds—sometimes literally. Princess Elizabeth, snuck Susan on her honeymoon, surprising her husband when the corgi tunneled out of the blankets she’d been hiding under.
Pets in fiction are popular because of the deep bond, the unconditional love, that we experience with our animals which can occasionally be better than some of their own human relationships. Animals don’t judge—at least most don’t, though I have certainly gotten a side-eye from one of my dogs. They easily forgive—unless you’re a cat. They are quirky, they are fun, and I think what makes them most enjoyable to read is that we can connect with the stories, they are endearing and hopeful, and make us feel happy. They can also be funny, as we get into the thoughts of a dog and see the world from their perspective.
If you’re looking to stock up on a few great fiction books for the summer that contain pets, then I suggest you look no further than this fun list—and of course, add Susan’s tale to your stack!
Operation: Happy by Jenni L. Walsh
Though this book is geared toward the middle-grade reader, I know plenty of adults who will love the story and its hopeful message, including myself! From the publisher: As World War II enters her backyard, a young girl tries to cope with the war and keep her family together by completing a bucket list with her best friend: her dog Happy. Featuring a dog’s POV and inspired by real-life experiences of a young Pearl Harbor survivor, this historical middle-grade novel will inspire readers 8-12 to find courage in any situation.
Dog Friendly by Victoria Schade
A perfect beach read! We all need to reset every now and then, and in this book, taking care of a pup is one way to get it. From the publisher: A burned-out veterinarian takes a much-needed beach vacation, where a charming surfer makes waves in her love life, and a unique foster pup renews her passion for her work.
I Thought You Said This Would Work by Ann Garvin
My interest was piqued by the road trip, increased by the besties, because I love a friendship book, but with the mention of rescuing a Great Pyrenees, I was hooked! From the publisher: A road trip can drive anyone over the edge—especially two former best friends—in bestselling author Ann Garvin’s funny and poignant novel about broken bonds, messy histories, and the power of forgiveness.
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
For me Marcellus, the octopus stole the show in this book, he is incredibly intelligent, and sneaky, and I love him! From the publisher: For fans of A Man Called Ove, a charming, witty and compulsively readable exploration of friendship, reckoning, and hope that traces a widow’s unlikely connection with a giant Pacific octopus.
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
6:30, the dog not the time, is the perfect addition to this charming, heartfelt and funny novel. I enjoyed seeing his view on the world around him, especially his humans. From the publisher: Chemist Elizabeth Zott is not your average woman. In fact, Elizabeth Zott would be the first to point out that there is no such thing as an average woman. But it’s the early 1960s and her all-male team at Hastings Research Institute takes a very unscientific view of equality. Except for one: Calvin Evans; the lonely, brilliant, Nobel–prize nominated grudge-holder who falls in love with—of all things—her mind. True chemistry results.
