Pros: Well written with enough humor to make it an enjoyable read.
Cons: Became tedious at times when the author discusses his past
The Bottom Line: Very good book for any person who is interested in either border collies or a discussion on the deeper meanings of dog companionship.
mjwood0's Full Review: Jon Katz - The Dogs of Bedlam Farm: An Adventure W...
This true story of an author (John Katz), three Border Collies, a herd of sheep and the struggles with rural life go miles to illustrate the trials and tribulations of a suburban man diving into country living. In The Dogs of Bedlam Farm, Katz succeeded in bringing to life the true struggles of country life and illustrates just how important good friends and neighbors become when you are miles from town.
Introduction
I’ve always loved border collies. In fact, I’d love to own one. They are smart and have a personality all to their own. I also live in Upstate New York and am working toward starting a hobby farm. When my mom read the book jacket of this book, she knew I had to read it and gave it to me for a present.
I began this book with mixed emotions. I’d read other books about John Katz and his border collies. His books give very accurate, sometimes humorous portrayals of life with intelligent herding dogs. However, at times it seems he delves into the deeper issues of life in a somewhat tedious manner. This book was no exception.
Story Summary
It all starts out as Katz describes his acquisition of an old farm in Upstate New York. As Katz describes his journey to leave suburbia behind, he encounters all the initial trials of living in the country! Lo and behold, before he is fully prepared, Katz finds himself awaiting the delivery of a small herd of sheep. This part of the book really struck home and Katz did a wonderful job describing the emotions of first-time farmer mayhem!
As the story unfolds, and a hard winter sets in, Katz begins to document the loneliness of isolation and the difficulties of winter. However, he does a wonderful job of illustrating the sense community in a small town setting. Katz documents becoming increasingly comfortable with country life, and country friendship -- but there is something deeper which creeps into the back of his head.
At this point, the book turns toward his views of what he calls “dog people” -- people who base their existence around their canine companions. It seems Katz has met many such people, and poses some interesting questions regarding their social nature and whether or not it is hindered or enhanced by their dogs. As it turns out, one of the dog people to whom he turns is his sister. Though they have been estranged for years, Katz contacts her and they begin to work through their difficult childhood through their interest in animal companionship. There are some very touching moments here, and it seems Katz has poured a lot of his soul out into the pages of this book.
There was also a touching portion near the middle of the book where Katz describes a very emotional struggle regarding his dog Devon and his struggle to find a happy home for this beloved pet. I found this section of the book well thought out and, though serious, a good insight into Katz’s struggles of loyalty to his loyal pets.
My Opinion
I do have to say I truly enjoyed this book. It was well written, humorous, and went a long way toward documenting the joys of animal companionship. I found Katz’s discussion of “dog people” interesting and insightful, though at times I think he goes a little too far toward self-pity regarding his past. It is clear that Katz loves his pets very deeply -- one of the reasons for leaving his wife and daughter in Massachusetts in search of better herding for his dogs. Though the story borders on tedious during the deeper parts regarding his past, there is enough humor through the use of his many animal stories that The Dogs of Bedlam Farm deserves a place on any dog lover’s bookshelf.
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