Secret Lives IndeedJuly 28, 2008 2 out of 2 found this review helpful
A book entitled "The Secret Life of Cows" might at first be one you feel might be best left out of view on your bookshelf, lest curious visitors start to form strange views of your private interests. But leaving aside the serious interests of farmers and students of ethology, this is a book to read and re-read - as one reviewer put it, deserving of becoming a cult classic!
For many of us, seeing a cow in a field is nothing strange. They are a part of the landscape, just "there", minding their own business and rarely near the top of the list in a countryside safari. But for me, this is the appeal of this beautiful study - taking a closer look at what goes on on the other side of the farm wall, being prepared to be surprised at what we might often regard as being quite ordinary.
Unsurprisingly, we learn that there's more to the life of a cow than might first be assumed - wonderful anecdotes and keen observations introduce us to the unique personalities and fascinating societies of these overlooked creatures.
I will never gaze at a staring bovine in quite the same way again.
BrilliantNovember 28, 2005 7 out of 8 found this review helpful
An absolutely brillant book. Having worked with cattle and knew them as individuals it was interesting to read someone elses views on cattle, and how left to their own devices are perfectly capable of looking after themselves (even better than us!) Highly amusing and well worth reading
Chew the cudDecember 10, 2003 30 out of 31 found this review helpful
This book is truly beautiful and is written with great affection and respect. A real insight into living with cows on a daily basis, getting to know them and how they react when allowed to live freely and make their own choices. Certainly makes you think about the issues surrounding intense farming and the effect this is having on these intelligent, wonderful creatures. Also includes sections on sheep, hens and pigs. If you love cows, you've probably been looking for this book for some time.
