Long before a spider named Charlotte teamed up with a pig named Wilbur in one of the most celebrated children’s stories of all time, books about animals have been popular gifts at this time of year.

Charlotte’s Web, about a smart spider and a charmed pig, has sold more than 45 million copies since it was first published in 1952.

“The best books are inspirational, motivational, interesting and unforgettable, and those that show the human-animal bond and the intrinsic value of animals in our society often do all of that,” says Paula Neuman, manager of humane education for the BC SPCA.

Neuman reviews books regularly for the SPCA and puts her stamp on those that promote positive attitudes toward animals and offer lessons about animal welfare. Many of her selections are by local authors.

A summary of Neuman’s top recommendations are listed in The Province newspaper, with a complete list plus additional details here.

Photo caption: Children's author Jacquie Pearce, pictured with her dog Dylan, has written two books recommended by the BC SPCA: The Truth About Rats and Dog House Blues.

The Monty Fund for Community Education & Outreach provides support for the BC SPCA’s humane education programs, including teacher resources, children’s summer camps and the Kids Club program. Please donate today.

The BC SPCA is a non-profit organization funded primarily by public donations. Our mission is to prevent cruelty and to promote the welfare of animals through a wide range of services, including cruelty investigations, emergency rescue and treatment, sheltering and adoption of homeless and abused animals, humane education, advocacy, farm animal welfare, spay/neuter programs, and wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.