John Brown 
Rab and His Friends 

John Brown’s ‘Rab and His Friends’ is a poignant and heartwarming collection of three short stories that explore the depths of human and canine relationships. Written in a simple and straightforward prose style, Brown skillfully captures the emotional nuances of friendship, loyalty, and loss. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century Scotland, the stories in this book provide a glimpse into everyday life and the timeless themes of love and companionship. Brown’s keen eye for detail and his ability to evoke empathy from readers make ‘Rab and His Friends’ a captivating read for those who appreciate classic literature. The stories are both heartwarming and thought-provoking, filled with moments of joy and sorrow that will resonate with readers of all ages. Overall, Brown’s masterful storytelling and heartfelt portrayal of human-animal bonds make ‘Rab and His Friends’ a timeless literary gem that deserves a place on every bookshelf.

About the author

John Brown (1810–1882) was a renowned Scottish physician and essayist, best remembered for his touching tale ‘Rab and His Friends’ (1859). Born in Biggar, Brown grew a deep appreciation for literature under the influence of his father, a pious minister. His compassionate nature and literary talent were evident in his medical practice as well as in his writings. ‘Rab and His Friends’, a short story exploring the bond between a man, his loyal dog Rab, and their entanglement in a touching human drama, quickly became a classic of Victorian literature, revered for Brown’s mastery in evoking deep emotion and humanism. John Brown’s style seamlessly weaves medical knowledge with keen observations of human behavior, showcasing his narrative skill and emotional intelligence. Though Brown’s body of work may not be extensive, his contribution to the medical humanities and literature remains significant; ‘Rab and His Friends’ continues to be celebrated for its narrative strength and compassionate portrayal of the human-animal connection, reflecting the very virtues that Brown himself held dear in both his medical practice and literary pursuits.