This entry refers to the UK publication of The Lord God Made Them All by Michael Joseph in 1981. The content is identical to the US edition published simultaneously by St. Martin’s Press. In the UK publishing sequence, this is considered the seventh book in the “All Creatures Great and Small” series, following the pattern of shorter UK volumes that were combined into larger omnibus editions for the American market.
The UK edition follows Herriot’s established pattern of shorter, more focused volumes — a format that suited British publishing conventions of the era. Michael Joseph published Herriot from the beginning of his career, and the relationship between author and publisher remained constant throughout. The dust jacket artwork and design differ from the American editions, with UK editions typically featuring pastoral illustrations by Larry Rostant or similar artists.
For collectors, the UK first editions are generally more desirable than the US editions because they represent the original form in which Herriot intended the books to appear — the US omnibus editions were a commercial decision by St. Martin’s Press rather than the author’s preferred structure.
Collecting
First edition (Michael Joseph, London, 1981): Cloth with pictorial dust jacket.
Market values:
- UK first edition, fine/fine: $25–$60
- US edition (see main entry): $20–$50
Projected values (2026–2036): Moderate appreciation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Herriot stop writing for so long? After Vet in a Spin (1977), Wight did not publish another book for four years. He was a working veterinarian first and a writer second, and the demands of his practice — plus the unexpected fame — made sustained writing difficult. He also suffered from depression, which he rarely discussed publicly.
How did Wight manage being both a vet and a famous author? He continued practising veterinary medicine throughout his writing career, never retiring to write full-time. His sons eventually joined the practice, which continues to this day (as Sinclair and Wight Veterinary Surgeons).