I don’t have a specific attraction to books about addiction and I’m not exactly an addict myself (see this recent post for more on that subject). However I do enjoy a well-written, honest, non-apologetic (while also not self-aggrandizing) biography that shares a story of the reality of the human condition. As it happens the book I am currently most excited about is just such a story.
Actually I borrowed Cat Daddy: What the World’s Most Incorrigible Cat Taught Me About Life, Love, and Coming Clean from my local library because of how much I enjoy Jackson Galaxy’s TV show – My Cat From Hell on Animal Planet. The first appeal is Jackson’s ability to repair a damaged relationship between cats and their guardians. I guessed that, with his bald head, unusual sideburns/ beard and extensive tattoos, Jackson’s ‘back story’ would be, at the least, interesting.
Well, interesting is quite the understatement. I’m not saying anything not on the book’s front flap to say that addiction plays a role in the Jackson Galaxy story. Along with working at an animal shelter. I won’t reveal any more of Jackson’s story here; buy or borrow the book and find out for yourself. I will say that the book is everything that I hoped and so much more.
Although he’s not gay** clearly Jackson has at least somewhat a similar relationship with animal rescue as I discuss here. For that matter, it’s not just animal welfare workers who often feel they are being helped as much as their charges; it is almost a truism that many social workers/therapists gain as much as they give.
To be fair I was predisposed to enjoy this book; if I had the funds I would get to L.A. and ask Jackson if I would be worthy of studying ‘cat mojo‘ with him.
** Update 07/01/2014
Posted by Best Friends Animal Society on Facebook:
“In an intimate ceremony surrounded by family and friends, Jackson Galaxy, Best Friends ambassador and star of Animal Planet’s My Cat From Hell, married Minoo Rahbar yesterday at our Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah. Fittingly, their dog, Mooshka, served as ringbearer. In lieu of wedding favors, the couple sponsored a Best Friends animal for each guest. Congratulations to the happy couple, and thanks to both Jackson and Minoo for all that they do to help Save Them All!
A photograph of the happy couple (and their ring-bearer) was included.
