A case for empathy
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Loading... - Ashoka Kohli
- 14 Mar 2023
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A heart-wrenching story about a little dog who, despite his hardships, doesn’t stop believing in himself
Animals can teach us empathy and are a beautiful part of our lives. They can become loving beings when surrounded by joy, laughter and unconditional love. However, being subject to cruelty and unkindness can leave them miserable and emotionally scarred. With these thoughts in mind, I picked up the book Wolfie to read to my son, who shares my love for animals.
Written by Sonya Rehman, an arts and culture journalist, Wolfie is a heart-wrenching story about a helpless dog who endures spite and malice at a farm in Lahore. He manages one day to escape, taking his mistreated friends with him. While the book is aimed at 9-year-olds and older children, it is a touching read that will also resonate with adults. As a reader, I try not to judge a book by its cover, but Wolfie’s bright, beautifully illustrated cover was too enticing to resist. The illustrations are delightful and colourful, with just enough detail to complement the well-written story.
A valuable addition to any child’s bookshelf, the book intelligently touches upon essential life skills such as emotional management and social responsibility. By addressing these topics in a relatable and engaging manner, the book helps children develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
After reading this book, I was left with a sense of hope and optimism but a heavy heart at how animals are treated in our country. Many of them go hungry on the streets, enduring deplorable conditions, while others are euthanised or left to roam without shelter. Countless pets suffer silently as their owners mistreat them, leaving them emotionally scarred and taxed. The book sheds light on critical issues and encourages readers to develop a greater understanding of and empathy for animals.
While the book’s core theme emphasises the value of every living being, that is just one of its many important lessons. The book’s intriguing anecdotes highlight the unique blessings bestowed upon each living creature and how these invaluable gifts combine to create a delectable dish rich with courage, kindness and love. Through these stories, readers are encouraged to appreciate and celebrate life’s diversity and cultivate a more profound sense of compassion and empathy towards living beings. Read More…
