Recently I was given the opportunity to read and review Monsters and Miracles: Henry Bergh’s America, by Gary Kaskel.
Who is Henry Bergh? Only the man who started the animal welfare movement in the US and was instrumental in starting the child welfare movement in the US. Since I work in the child welfare field and write about animal welfare, I readily agreed to read the novel.
Monsters and Miracles is a biographical novel, meaning that while it’s based on true events, it’s a fictional account of how things may have gone. Kaskel used newspaper clippings, court transcripts, and biographies as resources.
I found it an interesting read. I enjoyed the account of how Bergh founded the ASPCA, and how the organization was instrumental in changing public perceptions about animals. Bergh was seen painted somewhat glowingly, but it was easy to see that he was a man who was somewhat maniacal in his pursuit of his goals. Good. I’m far from perfect too, so it’s nice to be reminded that ordinary people can do great things.
I was also reminded that in many ways, such as regarding animals used for food, our public perceptions haven’t changed very much. I also saw the same tactics used to try to shut us up today were used back then. Some things never change, do they?
One fascinating thing you may not know is that animal welfare legislation was enacted before child welfare legislation. Parents were able to “discipline” their children as they saw fit, no matter how cruel. It wasn’t until a missionary, after exhausting other avenues, approached the ASPCA asking them to intervene on behalf of a child, and Bergh agreeing to do so, that anyone ever successfully prosecuted a parent for abusing a child. From that experience, the child welfare movement began. Kaskel’s account of Mary Ellen Wilson’s story is gripping, and the facts in the novel are true to the case.
Now let me say there are a few things about the novel I don’t care for, including:
This is not exactly a well-written novel. The author jumps back and forth without warning, and it’s rather annoying. But the story itself will trump that detail.
The author’s writing about Bergh’s sex life seemed irrelevant to the story, and turned me off.
I don’t personally care for fictionalized accounts of history, because it’s too easy to assume fiction is fact. However, since reading this novel, I have been motivated to learn more about Henry Bergh, and I believe that’s the author’s intent.
That having been said, I still see great value in reading this book, especially for those of you who want to know where our movement began. Indeed, Bergh is the most famous man you’ve never heard of.
Dogpaddling Through Life 
Fascinating. I had no idea who started it or that it came before child welfare laws until now.
Thank for sharing this. I will definitely like to know more about Henry Berg.
Thankyou for this info. I will source out a copy. Definitely an interesting read.
Sounds like a great read, and who would have thought Child protection came about from animal care??!!
Rumpy, I never heard about this man. But we all should know him. So, I will buy the book, it’s very interesting what you wrote and I think Mr. Bergh deserves to find out more . Many thanks for a great review.
Good review. The one thing about welfare rights of children and animals which is still bothersome is legislation is necessary to modify human behavior. Good thing we have it though. Interesting post.
It surprised me to know that the Animal Welfare Movement started so long ago. This proves that animals are very important family like human children for people.
Great honest review! Thanks for sharing! I did not know that the child welfare came AFTER the animal. Wow! Interesting!!!!!
ღ husky hugz ღ frum our pack at Love is being owned by a husky!
This information is certainly interesting. He was successful in his quest, which is remarkable enough. He must have had great satisfaction about achieving his goal and save so many animals.
I’d heard of the child and have seen this photo over the years that enlightened on how the ASPCA was responsible for calling attention to the plight of abused children. I never knew about this man in particular. Thanks for the information. Children are a passion of mine as well…or I would not have gone into education. It was certainly not for the money! 🙂
Thanks for the book review. His story has been invisible to most of us. Well written history and facts are often better than fiction – maybe at some point he will inspire another author who will take up the story. The story sounds like a good one
I’m off to Amazon to put it on my wish list! Thank you!
❤⊱彡 Linda
http://coloradofarmlife.wordpress.com
I had no idea that animal welfare and child welfare were linked to Bergh. Quite an achievement to be instrumental in the first child abuse case. Thanks!
Thanks. Makes sense since kids and animals are both innocents that need protection. I am definitely going to check this out.
wow…that’s a fascinating story! I would agree with the points you didn’t like about the book…but i’m glad he came along!
Very nice review. The hospital at the ASPCA is named for him. He started and everlasting legacy for helping and protecting animals.
If nothing else at least there is a record of this wonderful man who cared enough to speak up for the 4 leggeds & for abused children!!!
Thanks for your review Jen!
Sherri-Ellen & Nylablue xo