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Books

Top 5 books featuring animals, chosen by author and illustrator Andrea Cáceres 

Heartfelt and visually stunning books that celebrate the animal kingdom

Image: Cristian Frohlich from Pexels

Andrea Cáceres is an illustrator and the creator of the viral Instagram series Dog Affirmations. She is the author of children’s picture books Hello, Tobi! and My Dog Just Speaks Spanish. Now she’s picking her favourite animal books for Big Issue.

Urban Aviary by Stephen Moss and Marc Martin 

A book that is as informative as it is visually stunning. Perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about some of our most overlooked urban neighbourhoods, or simply enjoy the breathtaking artwork that Marc Martin consistently delivers.

Nido by Laura Guarisco 

Nido means nest in English. This beautiful story uses the metaphor of bird migration to explore the journey of a migrant moving from Venezuela and finding a new home. It’s a heartfelt reflection on the effort and resilience required to build a life as an immigrant

Beloved Dog by Maira Kalman 

A book you can read in one sitting – yet it will stay with you. It will make you laugh, cry, reflect on your own life, and hug your dog a little tighter. All of this is paired with Kalman’s extraordinary art. 

Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh 

Pure fun from start to finish! While animals aren’t in the title or on the cover, several stories feature them, and they’ll make you laugh out loud. Some moments feel relatable, but most are delightfully unique and unforgettable. 

We Found a Hat by Jon Klassen 

The third book in ‘The Hat Trilogy’, and one I never tire of recommending. Klassen tells one story through words and another through illustrations. By the end, they merge perfectly, leaving readers deeply moved. 

Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty

Dog Affirmations: An Illustrated Journey Through Your Dog’s Thoughts by Andrea Cáceres is out now (Bloomsbury, £9.99).

Some of these titles are available to buy from the Big Issue shop on bookshop.org, which helps to support Big Issue and independent bookshops.

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