Writing Dogs and Fiction: A Bark! Fest Conversation with Patricia B. McConnell and Cat Warren

Animal lovers and literary enthusiasts are invited to an illuminating virtual discussion at Bark! Fest, featuring two prominent authors renowned for their profound insights into the canine world: Patricia B. McConnell, PhD, author of Away to Me, and Cat Warren, author of What the Dog Knows. This special event, hosted by Zazie Todd, PhD, and Kristi Benson, will delve into the intricate art of crafting realistic and compelling dog characters in fiction, offering a unique perspective from experts who have dedicated their careers to understanding and articulating the lives of dogs.

Event Overview and Focus

Scheduled for Tuesday, September 15th, at 1 pm Pacific Time (4 pm Eastern / 9 pm UK time), the conversation promises an informal yet deeply informative exploration of the challenges and rewards inherent in integrating canine figures into narrative fiction. Both McConnell and Warren, celebrated for their ability to blend scientific understanding with engaging storytelling, will share their experiences in bringing four-legged characters to life on the page. The discussion is particularly timely as McConnell embarks on her second novel and Warren works on her first foray into fiction, offering attendees a glimpse into their creative processes, including the often-arduous journey of writing and rewriting to achieve authenticity.

The event highlights Bark! Fest’s commitment to fostering a deeper appreciation for animal-centric literature and promoting a nuanced understanding of our animal companions. By featuring authors who are not only skilled storytellers but also authoritative figures in animal behavior and science, Bark! Fest aims to elevate the discourse around animal portrayal in popular culture, moving beyond simplistic anthropomorphism to embrace realism and respect for animal agency.

Featured Authors: Blending Science and Storytelling

Dr. Patricia B. McConnell is an internationally acclaimed applied animal behaviorist whose extensive body of work has significantly shaped public understanding of dog behavior and human-animal communication. With a PhD in Zoology and a certification in Applied Animal Behavior (CAAB), McConnell’s career spans decades of research, teaching, and writing. Her non-fiction works, such as The Other End of the Leash, For the Love of a Dog, and the compassionate memoir The Education of Will, have collectively sold over 1.2 million copies, cementing her status as a leading voice in the field. These books are celebrated for their accessible yet scientifically rigorous approach to complex behavioral topics, often weaving personal anecdotes with professional insights to illuminate the profound bonds between humans and dogs, and the healing power of these relationships. McConnell’s expertise has also reached broader audiences through her nationally syndicated radio show, Calling All Pets, which aired in more than 110 cities for 14 years, and her television show Petline on Animal Planet.

Her debut novel, Away to Me, marks a significant expansion into fiction, bringing her wealth of knowledge to a suspenseful mystery set against the backdrop of rural Wisconsin’s sheepdog trials. The novel introduces Maddie McGowan, a character deeply immersed in the world of dog training and behavior, whose life takes a dramatic turn when her best friend is tragically killed. McConnell’s ability to craft an immersive world, filled with authentic details of dog-human interaction and the intricacies of sheepdog handling, distinguishes Away to Me as a novel that not only entertains but also educates. The narrative’s exploration of trauma, healing, and the protective instincts of both humans and dogs resonates with themes from her non-fiction work, yet it is presented within a gripping fictional framework that evokes comparisons to authors like William Kent Krueger and Louise Penny.

Joining her is Cat Warren, a distinguished journalist and author whose New York Times bestseller, What the Dog Knows: Scent, Science, and the Amazing Ways Dogs Perceive the World, has been lauded for its beautifully crafted exploration of canine olfactory abilities. Warren’s book combines rigorous scientific inquiry with compelling narrative, tracing the journey of her own "impossible" German shepherd, Solo, from a rambunctious puppy to a highly skilled human remains detection dog. The book delves into the fascinating science behind scent detection, profiling the extraordinary work of dogs in search and rescue, law enforcement, and other critical fields. It was long-listed for the PEN/E.O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Award, underscoring its impact in both scientific and literary circles. A Young Reader’s Edition further extends its reach, inspiring a new generation to appreciate the remarkable capabilities of working dogs. Warren, a retired professor from North Carolina State University, continues her research and writing on scent detection dogs and archaeology, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to uncovering and sharing the hidden worlds that dogs perceive. Her transition to fiction, which she will discuss at Bark! Fest, promises to bring her unique perspective on canine perception and the human-dog partnership to new narrative forms.

The Art of Canine Characterization

The central theme of the Bark! Fest discussion – "writing dogs and fiction" – addresses a critical aspect of contemporary literature. Dogs, as ubiquitous companions and cultural touchstones, frequently appear in novels, but their portrayal often varies widely in terms of realism and depth. The conversation between McConnell and Warren is expected to illuminate the nuanced approaches required to create canine characters that are not merely props or symbols, but integral, believable entities within a story.

From Dr. McConnell’s perspective as an animal behaviorist, the challenge lies in translating scientific understanding of canine cognition, communication, and emotional life into fictional behaviors and motivations. This involves avoiding excessive anthropomorphism while still conveying a dog’s internal experience in a way that resonates with human readers. Her work, particularly in Away to Me, demonstrates how a dog’s natural instincts, training, and breed-specific traits can drive plot, reveal character, and deepen thematic exploration. The accuracy of the sheepdog trial setting, the depiction of various dog behaviors, and the role of dogs in Maddie’s emotional recovery are all informed by McConnell’s professional background, making the canine characters not just present, but pivotal and authentic.

Cat Warren, with her journalistic precision and deep dives into the scientific aspects of canine sensory perception, brings a different but equally vital lens to this topic. Her insights into how dogs experience the world through scent, often beyond human comprehension, can inform richer, more complex portrayals of canine consciousness in fiction. The discussion may explore how authors can leverage scientific understanding of a dog’s senses, instincts, and communication methods to build more realistic and engaging interactions between human and animal characters. This extends to depicting how a dog’s unique abilities can advance a plot, solve mysteries, or even serve as a catalyst for human introspection and discovery.

Together, their combined expertise offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the craft of writing dogs, from ensuring behavioral accuracy to imbuing canine characters with narrative purpose. They will likely discuss the process of research, observation, and imaginative empathy required to make a dog "leap off the page," whether as a loyal companion, a key to solving a mystery, or a mirror reflecting human nature.

The Significance of Bark! Fest

Bark! Fest serves as a crucial platform for authors, readers, and professionals who share a passion for animals and the literature that celebrates them. In an increasingly digital and interconnected world, such virtual festivals play a vital role in community building, offering accessible opportunities for engagement regardless of geographical location. The festival’s mission extends beyond mere entertainment; it aims to promote responsible pet ownership, deepen human-animal bonds, and foster a greater understanding of animal welfare through the power of storytelling and expert knowledge.

The choice of Zazie Todd, PhD, and Kristi Benson as hosts further underscores the event’s commitment to informed discussion. Dr. Todd is a widely respected expert in companion animal psychology and author of Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy, while Kristi Benson is a certified professional dog trainer and behavior consultant. Their presence ensures that the conversation remains grounded in scientific principles and practical insights, enriching the experience for both seasoned professionals and casual dog lovers.

Broader Impact and Implications

The growing popularity of animal-centric literature reflects a broader societal trend: the increasing recognition of animals, particularly dogs, as integral family members and significant contributors to human well-being. Events like this Bark! Fest discussion contribute to this cultural shift by validating the profound roles animals play in our lives and by encouraging writers to portray them with the depth and respect they deserve.

For aspiring authors, the insights from McConnell and Warren offer invaluable guidance on developing believable animal characters, moving beyond stereotypes to create narratives that are both emotionally resonant and factually sound. For readers, such discussions enhance the appreciation of literary craft and foster a more critical engagement with animal portrayals in media. Ultimately, by spotlighting authors who seamlessly blend scientific expertise with creative storytelling, Bark! Fest reinforces the idea that understanding animals is not just a scientific endeavor, but also a deeply human and artistic one, enriching our lives and our literature in countless ways.

Engagement and Support

Attendees are encouraged to support these authors by purchasing their books, which are available at major retailers, independent bookstores (including Bookshop.org), and often through local libraries. Links to Dr. Todd’s Amazon store and Bookshop.org are provided for convenient access.

For those unable to attend the live session, the event will be recorded, and a link to the recording will be sent to all registered participants, ensuring that the valuable insights shared by Patricia B. McConnell and Cat Warren remain accessible. Interested individuals can secure their spot by registering via the provided Zoom link. Further news and updates on Bark! Fest can be obtained by signing up for the companion animal psychology newsletter. This event represents a unique opportunity to connect with leading voices in animal behavior and literature, promising a truly enriching experience for anyone who cherishes the profound connection between humans and dogs.