Writing Dogs and Fiction with Patricia B McConnell and Cat Warren at Bark! Fest

A unique literary event at Bark! Fest is set to bring together two prominent authors, Patricia B McConnell and Cat Warren, for an in-depth conversation on the intricate art of crafting realistic and compelling canine characters in fiction. Scheduled for Tuesday, September 15th, at 1 pm Pacific Time (4 pm Eastern / 9 pm UK time), this virtual gathering promises to offer invaluable insights for writers, animal lovers, and readers fascinated by the human-animal bond. The discussion will delve into the challenges and rewards of depicting dogs as integral, authentic figures in narrative, leveraging the authors’ combined expertise in animal behavior and journalistic storytelling.

An Expert Dialogue on Canine Characterization

The upcoming Bark! Fest session, titled "Writing Dogs and Fiction," is poised to be a highlight for attendees. Dr. Patricia B McConnell, a globally recognized applied animal behaviorist and the author of the recently released novel Away to Me, will join Cat Warren, a New York Times bestselling author known for What the Dog Knows: Scent, Science, and the Amazing Ways Dogs Perceive the World. Their conversation will explore the nuanced process of creating canine characters that resonate with readers, moving beyond mere companionship to become pivotal to the plot and emotional core of a story. This involves a delicate balance of scientific accuracy regarding dog behavior and the imaginative demands of fiction.

The event, hosted by Zazie Todd, PhD, and Kristi Benson, is designed to be an informal yet informative dialogue. Both Dr. Todd and Benson are respected figures in the animal behavior and training community, bringing a deep understanding of the subject matter to their roles as moderators. Their involvement underscores the event’s commitment to presenting a scientifically informed perspective on animal roles in literature. The session will be recorded, with a link provided to all registrants, ensuring broader access to the valuable discussion.

Spotlight on the Authors and Their Works

Dr. Patricia B McConnell is celebrated for her extensive contributions to the field of applied animal behavior. With a PhD in Zoology, her career has spanned decades, influencing countless pet owners and professionals through her books, radio shows, and television appearances. Her non-fiction works, such as The Other End of the Leash, For the Love of a Dog, and the profoundly moving memoir The Education of Will, have collectively sold over 1.2 million copies. These books are lauded for their compassionate approach to understanding animal psychology and the complex dynamics between humans and their canine companions, often exploring themes of trauma, healing, and communication.

Her foray into fiction with Away to Me marks a significant expansion of her literary repertoire. This suspenseful mystery, set against the backdrop of rural Wisconsin’s sheepdog trial world, introduces readers to Maddie McGowan, an animal behaviorist whose life takes a dramatic turn following the inexplicable death of her best friend. The novel weaves together Maddie’s personal journey of healing from past trauma with a gripping investigation, where the behavior of dogs, particularly her spirited Border Collie, Jack, plays a crucial role in unraveling the mystery. Dr. McConnell’s ability to imbue her fictional dogs with realistic behaviors and emotional depth, drawing directly from her professional expertise, is a testament to her unique voice in the genre. The novel is the first in a new mystery trilogy, indicating a continued exploration of canine-centric narratives.

Cat Warren, a retired professor from North Carolina State University, brings a journalist’s precision and a profound personal narrative to her work. Her New York Times bestseller, What the Dog Knows, is a beautifully crafted exploration of the extraordinary abilities of scent detection dogs. The book chronicles her journey with Solo, her "impossible" German Shepherd puppy, transforming him from a challenging companion into a highly skilled human remains detection dog. Warren masterfully blends scientific inquiry with personal anecdotes, illustrating the remarkable olfactory capabilities of dogs and the dedication required to train them for critical work. The book also has a Young Reader’s Edition, expanding its educational reach to a younger audience.

Warren’s ongoing research into scent detection dogs and archaeology further solidifies her authority on canine perception and working dogs. While What the Dog Knows is non-fiction, her current work on her first novel suggests a similar commitment to portraying dogs authentically, likely informed by her deep understanding of their sensory worlds and working capacities. The discussion at Bark! Fest will offer a rare glimpse into how these authors transition from empirical observation and personal experience to the imaginative realm of fiction, particularly in crafting canine characters that "leap off the page."

The Art and Science of Canine Characters

The conversation between McConnell and Warren is particularly timely given the enduring popularity of animal-themed literature. According to a 2021-2022 APPA National Pet Owners Survey, approximately 69 million households in the United States own a dog, highlighting a vast audience with an inherent interest in canine narratives. However, writing dogs in fiction presents unique challenges. Authors must avoid anthropomorphism while still conveying the animal’s perspective, motivations, and impact on the human characters and plot.

Dr. McConnell, with her background as an internationally renowned applied animal behaviorist, is uniquely positioned to discuss the integration of scientific understanding into narrative. Her non-fiction works consistently emphasize the importance of understanding canine communication signals and ethology. When applied to fiction, this translates into dogs whose reactions, training, and relationships with humans are grounded in plausible biological and behavioral principles, rather than purely human projections. For instance, in Away to Me, the detailed descriptions of sheepdog trials and the behavioral nuances of working Border Collies are not merely decorative but integral to the story’s authenticity and tension. This level of detail elevates the narrative beyond simple storytelling, offering readers a deeper appreciation for the complex world of canine intelligence and instinct.

Similarly, Cat Warren’s expertise in scent detection dogs and their extraordinary sensory perception provides a rich foundation for fictional character development. Her book, What the Dog Knows, reveals the intricate science behind a dog’s nose, explaining how dogs perceive the world in ways humans can only begin to comprehend. Translating this scientific accuracy into a fictional dog character means portraying a canine whose understanding of its environment is shaped by scent, sound, and instinct, offering a multi-dimensional portrayal that challenges conventional, often simplistic, depictions. This commitment to realism ensures that the dog characters serve as more than just plot devices or sentimental figures; they become agents of the narrative, whose actions and perceptions are genuinely canine.

The discussion will likely touch upon the iterative process of writing and rewriting to achieve this authenticity. Crafting believable animal characters often involves extensive research, observation, and a willingness to revise to ensure that the animal’s role is both engaging and true to its species. This rigorous approach not only enriches the fictional world but also educates readers, subtly fostering a deeper understanding and empathy for animals.

The Significance of Bark! Fest

Bark! Fest, as implied by its name and the nature of its programming, serves as a vital platform for celebrating literature focused on animals, particularly dogs. In an era where online communities and virtual events have become increasingly crucial for connection, such festivals provide a dedicated space for authors, readers, and professionals to engage with shared interests. These events are essential for promoting works that explore the human-animal bond, animal behavior, and conservation, often bridging the gap between scientific inquiry and accessible storytelling.

The festival’s commitment to showcasing both non-fiction and fiction authors highlights the diverse ways in which stories about animals can be told. By featuring authors like McConnell and Warren, who excel in both genres or seamlessly transition between them, Bark! Fest reinforces the idea that understanding animals is a multi-faceted endeavor, benefiting from both factual reporting and imaginative narrative. These platforms contribute to a broader cultural conversation about animal welfare, responsible pet ownership, and the profound impact animals have on human lives.

The hosts, Zazie Todd and Kristi Benson, further elevate the credibility and reach of Bark! Fest. Dr. Zazie Todd, author of Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy and founder of the popular Companion Animal Psychology blog, is a leading voice in positive reinforcement training and evidence-based animal care. Kristi Benson, a certified professional dog trainer and author, also contributes significantly to the discourse on ethical and effective dog training methods. Their combined expertise ensures that the discussions are grounded in contemporary animal behavior science, providing context and depth to the literary explorations.

Broader Implications and Audience Engagement

The conversation between Patricia B McConnell and Cat Warren holds implications beyond the immediate literary community. For aspiring authors, it offers a masterclass in character development, demonstrating how a deep understanding of a subject can transform storytelling. For readers, it enhances their appreciation for the craft involved in creating believable animal characters, potentially leading to a more critical and informed engagement with animal-themed literature.

Furthermore, by highlighting the importance of realistic portrayal, such discussions contribute to a more nuanced public understanding of animal behavior. In a world often influenced by anthropomorphic depictions of animals in media, the emphasis on scientific accuracy in fiction can subtly educate readers, promoting greater empathy and a more respectful approach to animal interactions. This is particularly relevant in addressing common behavioral misconceptions that can impact animal welfare.

The event also serves as a testament to the enduring power of books to foster community and facilitate learning. By providing accessible platforms for dialogue with respected experts, Bark! Fest strengthens the network of individuals dedicated to animals and their stories. The availability of the recording ensures that the valuable insights shared will continue to inform and inspire a global audience.

Registration and Support

To participate in this insightful conversation, interested individuals are encouraged to save their spot by registering via the provided Zoom link. The event will take place on Tuesday, September 15th, at 1 pm Pacific (4 pm Eastern / 9 pm UK time).

Supporting the authors is an integral part of attending such events. Their books, including Patricia B McConnell’s Away to Me and Cat Warren’s What the Dog Knows, are widely available wherever books are sold. Attendees are encouraged to purchase their copies through various outlets, including Amazon stores, Bookshop.org, or their local libraries, to directly support the authors’ continued work in enriching the literary landscape with their unique perspectives on animals.

The Bark! Fest event featuring Patricia B McConnell and Cat Warren promises to be a profoundly enriching experience, blending literary exploration with scientific insight. It stands as a prime example of how thoughtful dialogue can deepen our understanding of both the art of writing and the complex, fascinating lives of our canine companions.