Reading novels is something I’ve always sought to avoid. That there
is enough to learn in real life without having to revert to fiction has
always been my past contention. However, even at 75 one can change. And
this has been the result of reading Kathleen Kinder’s most recent novel:
‘The Well’. In fact if other novels were as gripping and vivid as that
by the above author then I might have been reading fiction for some
considerable time. Yes, it’s been a most healthy and recent diversion.
If, indeed, for no less a reason than that my borderline hypertension
has considerably dropped during the last fortnight that I’ve been
absorbed in it. A novel which discreetly plugs animal rights and
veganism.
The fact is that we animal activists need to switch off from being
absorbed by so much doom and gloom. It is essential that we switch off
in order that, paradoxically, we may be recharged! And for myself,
Kathleen’s book has been the means. For in it’s pages one is confronted
by a most compassionate fellow – an author of fictitious animal books
bearing a deep moral message. Yes, and not inconsistently, a fellow
whose compassion is equally expressed towards a retarded youngster who
also shows an identical empathy towards caged up animals in a nearby
farm. The retarded can teach us so much! Indeed, this gripping novel –
‘gripping’ because the end of each chapter wants us to get in to the
next! – creates wonderfully vivid reading. Yes, and along with it, an
insight in to the outer subtleties of false feminine charm like none
other. As for the corruption of one who is in a place of top public
influence it is also, regrettably, far too often true to life.
Yes, dear fellow activist, I suggest you purchase a copy of the above
book directly from the above phone number or any reputable bookshop. Or
alternatively that you get your local library to stock the same by
quoting the following ISBN 1-84375-083-X Take it from me, you’ll not be
disappointed!
Review by James Thompson
Go on to TV Were Present At Last
Animal Blessing Service
Return to Summer 2005 Issue