The Nicholberry Dispatch
My 2024 Book List, and the biggest threat to our dogs' health...
BOOK NEWS
I was reviewing my “2024 Read Books” list yesterday and decided I’d start my own 2024 favorites. This year, I’ll just go with one selection for non-fiction and one for fiction. But I reserve the right to change next year’s format! Also, I’d love to hear your favorites - leave a comment.
Non-Fiction: Tunnel 29
This is the riveting true story of a German graduate student who dug a tunnel right under the feet of Berlin Wall border guards to help friends, families, and strangers escape.
Fiction: James
Because much of what I do requires physical work and movement, I listen to a lot of audio books (yes, this counts as reading). This one accompanied me in the whelping box as I waited for Lucy’s puppies to arrive and left me missing it long after they were here. Weeks later and I’m still thinking about it…
SOMETHING TO LEARN
Malcolm Gladwell on the importance of self-correction
Malcolm Gladwell has challenged me to think more carefully on everything from the impact of a birth date (Outliers) to the impact of personal faith on warfare (The Bomber Mafia). In this delightful conversation with Adam Grant (another favorite), they discuss Revenge of the Tipping Point and venture down unexpected rabbit holes (such as sender and receiver cultures). If you’re like me, you’ll be sad when it’s over and immediately hit “replay.”
SOMETHING TO REMEMBER
Obesity in Dogs: A Major Health Threat Hiding in Plain Sight
I know, I know. Is she really posting another article about canine obesity? Yes, she is. Because it’s that important. 50 million (fifty million!) dogs are overweight, which directly contributes to ailments like arthritis and urinary disease. Please take seriously your dog’s weight and assess whether adjustments are in order. It doesn’t need to be a lot - just a 6% loss positively affects their mobility and longevity. The bottom line: you can help your dog live longer and healthier by merely watching their weight.
SOMETHING TO CONSIDER
“I have never understood why people perceive changing your mind as costly.” Malcolm Gladwell
SOMETHING TO LOVE
I’m so glad you agree that listening to audiobooks counts as reading! My favorite nonfiction was “Puppy Brain” and I did listen to it. It was read by the perfect person. Favorite fiction has to be “The Women” Kristen Hannah. Now on to 2025 reading! Have a Happy New Year!
I found the Malcolm Gladwell podcast so interesting, especially about how Harvard has the largest number of athletes and that's one of the top three ways to get into the school. Being a college counselor, this was fascinating to me! Adding James to my list for 2025. Thank you.