In the tradition of Garth Stein's The Art of Racing in the Rain , which I adored, comes Susan Wilson's latest novel, One Good Dog. The audio version is read by Fred Berman and Rick Adamson, and both do a fabulous job. You see in this book, two characters, Man and Dog each tell their story.
Adam March was a successful, 40 something, self-made millionaire with a wife and a beautiful teenage daughter. He had, however, a troubled childhood that haunted him still. One day the good life ended for him; he lost his job, his wife filed for divorce, and he had assault charges to face as well. He was humiliated by having to moved to a less than desirable area, since his money was gone, and he was also required to do community service at a homeless shelter.
Chance is a pit bull mix, a former fighting dog who spent his life in a cage, in a basement. He did the only thing he knew would please his master...fight, and in exchange for that he was fed. When his owner's home is raided by authorities, all of the dogs are gathered up but Chance manages to escape. He's thrilled to be free, but his freedom on the streets, is short lived. He is taken to an animal shelter and put back in a cage. Of course since a cage is all he has known, he thinks he will be expected to fight, but soon he sees that life here is not so bad, but what does his future hold?
Well yes, fate brings these two lost souls together, but can all the obstacles of life and circumstance keep them together, or is their time together short-lived?
If you love stories about life, love, loss, and second chances, then this story is sure to please. Be sure to put this book on your summer reading list. I should caution you that although brief, some of the dog fighting scenes are pretty descriptive. Despite this, I thought this book was so worth my time. (4.5/5 stars)
(Library Audio Book)
Great review, Diane. I will keep a eye out for this one. I wouldn't mind an audio version of this for long summer drives.
ReplyDeleteI was thinking that this would be a good audiobook for me until I read your warning about the dog fight scenes. I just cannot read (or listen) about animal cruelty, so thank you so much, Diane, for the warning.
ReplyDeleteAwww, it's wonderful what dogs can do for people.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like such a good story! I feel for the poor doggie already. Books like this always seem like they will be sad in the end, but i still might pick it up.
ReplyDeleteThis one sounds very very good and I love books about people and animals!
ReplyDeleteI know an animal narrator turns a lot of people off, but not me - I love them. This sounds good to me in spite of the fighting scenes.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to hear this story
ReplyDeleteIs it heartbreaking? I lost my dog to cancer last year and still cannot bring myself to read or see Marly & Me. If this is anything like that book, it may be great, but I will pass.
ReplyDeleteSari....I don't want to give spoilers but I think you should read it.
ReplyDeleteI also loved The Art of Racing in the Rain and will put this one on my reading list. Thank You! Annie
ReplyDeleteThanks for bringing another one of such books to my attention. I have The Art of Racing in the Rain but haven't read it. Need to do so soon. :)
ReplyDeletewell, you know me...I am such a sucker for a good dog story. This does sound like a perfect summer read!
ReplyDeleteThis does sound like a really good read, and since I love animal stories this is definitely a book I want to read. I am glad you loved it and will have to let you know what I think of it!!
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