Reading + Reflection Guide: Raising Hare

What I thought would be a cute animal/human friendship story turned out to reveal so much more. One of the most impactful books on respect (among other topics) that I have come across recently!

I love stories that demonstrate the bond that can exist between humans and animals. Whether in fiction (looking at you, Remarkably Bright Creatures!) or nonfiction (like many of the additional titles I’ve included below), so many books remind us how we are all interconnected, and in such meaningful ways.

Raising Hare, I must admit, took me by surprise when I read it early last year. I entered the book thinking it would be a lovely feel-good story about friendship, but this story is so much more. The level of respect shown within these pages - as well as compassion, trust, courage, and connection - made this one of the most impactful books I read in 2025 and a story that has stuck with me ever since.

We haven’t discussed many memoirs in the Reading And Purpose Nonfiction Book Club yet, so I am really excited to dive into this with everyone in February! Members can find all the details - reflection questions, alternative titles, meeting details, podcasts and additional resources, and more - in the segment below.

One word of caution before you dive into some of the additional resources I’ve included: While we don’t typically worry about ‘spoilers’ with our nonfiction picks, please note that in the case of Raising Hare, points that unfold throughout the book are discussed in these podcasts and resources. While these resources provide an excellent overview of Dalton’s experience (plus she is an absolute delight as an interviewee!), if you do plan to read the book, I’d suggest doing that first before listening to the podcasts, etc. if possible.

We had excellent discussions in our January meetings and I can’t wait for the February ones! Read on for more details. And if you’re not yet a member of the Reading And Purpose Nonfiction Book Club and would like to be, come and join us! All paid subscribers are automatic members, and we’d love to share with and learn from you, too.

“The fact that the leveret appeared to feel safe with me seemed a tacit approval from the wildest of the wild. It made me feel accepted in my environment, akin to living in a state of peace with nature.” - Chloe Dalton

Let’s prepare to discuss this beauty of a book!