Jon Katz is een auteur die de diepe banden tussen mensen en dieren onderzoekt. Zijn werk duikt vaak in thema's van verlies, heling en het alomtegenwoordige gezelschap van dieren in ons leven. Katz' stijl, duidelijk zichtbaar in zijn fotografie en schrijven, is zowel introspectief als observerend, waarbij hij de essentie van het plattelandsleven en de emotionele complexiteit van intersoortelijke relaties vastlegt. Lezers vinden in zijn proza een resonerende weerspiegeling van hun eigen ervaringen met dieren en heling.
Life for Jon and the animals of Bedlam Farm is busier than ever, but from the moment Jon catches sight of Lenore, a very cute little Labrador puppy, he cannot resist. - and tries her hardest to make friends, but will Lenore's mischievous charm win everybody over?
Poor Lenore! None of the other animals at Bedlam Farm welcome her. Even Rose the border collie is too busy to play. But Lenore refuses to give up, and when she licks a grumpy ram named Brutus―right on the nose!―an unexpected friendship begins.
Rose is determined and focused, keeping the sheep out of danger and protecting the other creatures on the farm she calls home. But of all those she’s looked after since coming to the farm as a puppy, it is Sam, the farmer, whom she watches most carefully. Awoken one cold midwinter night during lambing season, Rose and Sam struggle into the snowy dark to do their work. The ever observant Rose has seen a change in her master of late, ever since Sam’s wife disappeared one day. She senses something else in the air as well: A storm is coming, but not like any of the ones she’s seen over the years. And when an epic blizzard hits the region, it will take all of Rose’s resolve, resourcefulness, and courage to help Sam save the farm and the creatures who live there.
Exploring the profound connection between humans and dogs, Jon Katz presents a collection of short stories that celebrate the joys and challenges of life with these beloved companions. Drawing from his experiences at Bedlam Farm, Katz shares enchanting tales that highlight the unique personalities of his animals, offering keen insights into their relationships with humans. This collection showcases his signature warmth and storytelling prowess, making it a heartfelt tribute to the bond we share with our canine friends.
In this invaluable guide and touchstone, New York Times bestselling author Jon Katz addresses the difficult but necessary topic of saying goodbye to a beloved pet. Drawing on personal experiences, stories from fellow pet owners, and philosophical reflections, Katz provides support for those in mourning. By allowing ourselves to grieve honestly and openly, he posits, we can in time celebrate the dogs, cats, and other creatures that have so enriched us. Katz compels us to consider if we gave our pets good lives, if we were their advocates in times of need, and if we used our best judgments in the end. In dealing with these issues, we can alleviate guilt, let go, and help others who are undergoing similar passages. By honoring the animals that have graced our lives, we reveal their truly timeless gifts: unwavering companionship and undying love. With a brand-new Foreword by the author
The book features a gripping narrative that captivates readers with its blend of suspense and emotional depth. It explores complex characters who navigate personal challenges and relationships, revealing their vulnerabilities and strengths. Themes of resilience, love, and redemption are woven throughout the story, making it relatable and poignant. The author's unique storytelling style and vivid imagery enhance the reading experience, drawing readers into a world that resonates long after the last page is turned.
Exploring the multifaceted nature of change, the narrative delves into personal transformations that affect various aspects of life, including career shifts, parenthood, and lifestyle choices like purchasing a cabin. The author reflects on how change can be both sudden and profound, sometimes even embodied in the form of a pet. With a blend of humor and introspection, this work captures the unpredictable journey of embracing life's transitions.
RE Katz’s And Then the Gray Heaven centers on Jules, whose partner B has recently died in a freak accident. Confronting the red tape of the hospital, the dissociation and cruelty of B’s family, and the unimaginable void now at the center of their lives, Jules and new friend Theo embark on a road trip to bury two-thirds of B’s ashes in the places they most belong. Along the way, Katz delves into their relationship and their life stories—Jules’ rise from abandoned baby origins through the Florida foster care system, and B’s artistic transformation, surrounded by kindred spirits who helped them realize it was possible to be regarded as a human and not as a body.Delving into what it means to try to be alive to your own pain and the pain of others under late capitalism, And Then the Gray Heaven explores the themes of queer grief and affection, queer failure, burial as hero’s journey, and the grotesqueries of artistic determination within and beyond the institutions that define our lives.
Farm life at Bedlam Farm is brought to life through the adventures of Jon Katz and his animals, including border collies, sheep, and a sociable steer named Elvis. The narrative explores the lessons animals impart and the responsibilities humans have towards them, set against the backdrop of changing seasons. With themes of community, love, and the beauty of rural living, the book offers both heartwarming animal tales and a vivid depiction of a harmonious existence in the countryside.
As Izzy settles down to life on Bedlam Farm, Jon is amazed that all signs of the troubled rescue dog who first arrived have disappeared. Izzy shows Jon what dogs can do for people at our most desperate times.