Main / Authors

James Herriot - Biography

Herriot is the pseudonym by which the great British veterinarian and writer Alfred Wight became known. His books about the adventures of a vet in rural Yorkshire made him famous around the world, and his work and perseverance brought respect and recognition to the world of veterinary medicine.

James Alfred White was born on October 3, 1916 in the city of Glasgow, Scotland. He grew up in a vet family, which may have had a major impact on his future career. After graduating from high school, he went to a veterinary college in Glasgow to follow in footsteps of his father and pursuit a career in veterinary medicine.

After completing his training, James began working as a vet in the Yorkshire area, which became the basis for many of his future books. His work in the countryside, where he met a variety of animals and their owners, inspired him to start recording his observations and stories.

His first book, "All Creatures Great and Small," was published in 1972 and became an immediate bestseller. The book chronicled his adventures and experiences with animals and quickly won the hearts of readers around the world.

Following the success of the first book, James Herriot continued to write and publish his memoirs and stories about his veterinary practice. His books such as "And One More Thing" ("All Things Bright and Beautiful"), "My Friends, Animals" ("All Things Wise and Wonderful"), and "With All My Children" ("The Lord God Made Them All") have become popular worldwide.

He was known for his flamboyant writing style, sense of humor, and ability to convey a deep affection for animals and nature. His books became not only bestsellers, but also inspired many people to get involved in veterinary medicine and animal care.