Famous pets of famous people

Delve into a delightful anthology that pairs celebrated personalities with the animals that shared their lives. From Victor Hugo’s sleek cat “Mouche” to the loyal dog Greyfriars’ Bobby of Edinburgh, each entry blends concise biography with charming anecdotes, revealing how pets softened the edges of fame and inspired creative work. Beautifully reproduced illustrations accompany the stories, giving listeners a visual glimpse of the companions that once padded beside poets, politicians, and artists.

The first section shines a spotlight on Scottish figures, wandering through historic streets of Edinburgh while uncovering the bonds between poets, writers, and their beloved beasts. Readers hear how a bull‑terrier accompanied Sir Walter Scott, how a raven named Grip perched beside Charles Dickens, and how a humble goat marched with the Welsh Fusiliers. These vignettes celebrate the timeless companionship that transcends status, inviting listeners to enjoy history through the eyes of its most faithful four‑legged (and sometimes feathered) friends.