This non-fiction book was written by Marion S. Lane and Stephen L. Zawistowski who are both employees of the ASPCA. The book is available in hard cover and was published by Praeger of Westport , Connecticut It was first published in 2008 and is available through the ASPCA on-line store as well as major retail booksellers. The book gives a detailed history of the ASPCA from its founding in 1866 by Henry Bergh to the present time. It is written objectively and also discusses problems that the ASPCA encountered and issues that New York City had with the ASPCA when they were responsible for animal control. There is no apparent attempt to hide what others found to be problems within the organization. The origin of the Animal Planet series “Animal Precinct” is also mentioned. This book contains a section with vintage pictures and pictures up to the present that illustrate the history of this wonderful non-profit organization. In fact, the first picture is a portrait of Henry Bergh which I happen to have a color copy of. It was given to me by Valerie of the ASPCA who was kind enough to send it to me when she was in the public relations department and for which I will be forever grateful. (I had sent an email to the ASPCA complaining that they did not have any biographical books on the society’s founder or any pictures of its founder available for purchase.)

This book is a must read for any admirer of the ASPCA and gives insight to the heart, soul, fortitude and foresight of its founder – an incredible man and a true American Hero – Henry Bergh.

I’d give this book three thumbs up if I had a third hand.

Pros: Well written history of the ASPCA

Cons: None