On Thursday the 7th of November Unity Books Wellington was proud to host the launch of Creature Comforts: NZs & Their Pets – an Illustrated History by Nancy Swarbrick.
Animal lovers filled the store in a stampede to celebrate the publication of this wonderful labour of love. For over 5 years Nancy conducted mostly unfunded research to document and collate the rich history of this country’s connection and relationship with its pets. Incredible stories are found within its pages complemented by stunning photographs and illustrations.
Rachel Scott from Otago University Press began by introducing the book and speaking of her belief in, and admiration for, the determination of Nancy and the project.
Fellow historian Alison Parr, author of The Occupiers: NZ Veterans Remember Post-War Japan, expressed her love of the book and the importance of it as a cultural history.
When Nancy spoke of her years of research and fruition of the book, we all got a true sense of the passion that she holds for the history and documentation of animal companions within New Zealand. The night was concluded with socialising and a signing.
Unity Books would like to thank Nancy Swarbrick & Otago University Press for having us host this fantastic event, Alison Parr for launching & everyone who attended for supporting New Zealand publishing.