Just this past June, a book of short stories coupled with photography was released. As of this posting it is ranked number 342 in books on Amazon, and number one in three other categories. Written by National Geographic Senior Writer, Jennifer S. Holland, her book is called, Unlikely Friendships. It’s filled with images and stories of unusual and endearing pairings in the animal kingdom. A leopard that sneaks into a field to curl up with a cow. A hippo that finds solace with a tortoise. A black bear that befriends a black cat.

I’ve chosen her book for my first blog topic, not merely because it marries writing and images in a lovely, and well-designed layout. I’ve chosen it because sometimes what allows a composition to have the most impact is either the timing of it, or the juxtaposition of it next to other things. This book with it’s easy prose, and heart-warming pictures is on shelves alongside just-released photo books commemorating the 10th anniversary of 9/11. It’s so easy for us to be captured by dramatic and devastating images of a day that moved us beyond words. A day that moved us into action. Protection. Sorrow. Even anger. Our feelings were almost instinctual. In the case of Unlikely Friendships, Jennifer’s collection of stories shows us that perhaps instinct can be overcome. Every day we have the ability to choose nurture over nature. The timing of her message is impeccable.

For more photos of unlikely pairings and Jennifer’s book info.