Dr. Stork refuses to refer to himself as an author. He's far more
comfortable being called a storyteller with an amazing stable of
friends, unique perspective, and two editors who are both skilled and
tolerant. Four years ago, Dr. Stork sat down to write stories about
dogs, cats, cows, farms, families, and faith. Collectively they become
In Herriot's Shadow, a book about humanity. He is still a country vet
practicing in a small town in Wisconsin, writing with the same unique
voice, but Stepping from Herriot's Shadow is anything but a continuum.
The book you are holding is bound and printed, but it is a snapshot. The
writings and reflections that have become Stepping from Herriot's Shadow
are alive. Their direction is unknown. The path will be guided by a
pearl plucked from conversation with the next farmer, teacher, or tap
dancer he encounters. He moves from responding to road-raging "Prius
Pete," to celebrating survival in "Family Tradition." Amazon reviewer
Sarah said of In Herriot's Shadow, "He doesn't write much about
animals." Well, Sarah, here are stories about elusive Jack Russell
terriers, free range pigs, old black Labs, rampaging cows, and skunks.
There are also stories about WWII Veteran barber, anger management,
serendipity, and gaining strength by way of a sick daughter, or climbing
a mountain. Sarah also lamented, "Never with the grace and
self-deprecation of Herriot." Sarah, you'll be delighted to read how he
had his backside handed to him by a Holstein with a roundhouse right, a
professor in vet school, and his son. Music and storytelling is an art,
a form of living history, a way to explore human interaction. Songwriter
Keven DeForrest says, "Serve the song." Dr. Stork says, "Tell the story.
Only then do you know the end."
