Gillian Hick

NOTE: I received an uncorrected Advanced Readers Copy of this book from NetGalley. This review is my honest opinion of the book.

Rating: 3.5 stars

From the author of Vet on the Loose and Vet Among the Pigeons comes Vet on a Mission. This book contains some of the experiences experienced by Vetrinarian Gillian Hick while starting her own small vet clinic in what is essentially her backyard - along with raising 3 small children (with the help of her husband). The stories are a mix of entertaining, realistic and sad. The writing is not as good as the James Herriot vet stories (it's a little stiff, too much tell and not enough show). However, the book still makes for entertaining reading and fans of James Herriot or vet memoirs would enjoy the book.

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I know what you're thinking: Another veterinarian tries to rip off James Herriot — you know, the Yorkshire vet with all the heart-warming animal tales. But stop right there. It's true that Gillian Hick is a young Irish (not British) vet, and that her stories are funny and often heartwarming. But this is not a rerun of Herriot's tales, as Gillian has her own unique voice as she recounts tales from her practice in Dublin and the countryside. She has quite a knack for storytelling and characterization. This little book is a gem and a keeper, and personally I'd love to see a sequel or two.

(Full disclosure: My sister went to vet school in Dublin with the author, which is why I have one of the few copies of this book in the States. My own acquaintance with Ms. Hick extends no further than that, and she didn't even buy me a pint to get this review.)… (más)