Are you ready to smile? Smiling, laughing and nodding are the side effects from reading this delightful book, A Dog's Life by Peter Mayle. This book is actually two books in one with the engaging illustrations by Edward Koren. So onward with a two books in one review!
This is a story of a rescue dog in Provence named Boy by his new parents. What is different about this narrative is the tale is told by Boy ... in his own words.
Boy is thoughtful, introspective, funny, witty, dry and very on point with his observations of the household, his city, his new furry sisters, his parents and how life rolls in Provence.
I'm still laughing over his description of rolling in the grass, why it is a good idea, why he likes to roll over smelly 'things' in the grass and then the consequences of the behavior. Which leads us to ...
The Other Point Of View
Boy is also a philosopher and keen observer. As he says one of his best strengths is his keen ability to observe then adapt; definitely a strength when being adopted into an established household.I very much enjoyed Boy's take on his new humans, siblings and household. In A Dog's Life he tells his story enhanced by his view of what others are thinking, the why behind their actions and how he will fit in his new home.
The Furry Topics
Boy runs the gamut of topics he finds interesting but are also of interest to dog parents. He answers those human questions of "Why would...?" "How could ..." "Did you really do that...?" of:- Picking The Dog's Name (and lifelong implications)
- Dog Birthday Parties
- Rolling In Stuff!
- Baths
- Cats
- New Siblings
- Food Bowl Etiquette
- Tasting Parties
- The Art Of Communication
and much more!
The Illustrations
I love hand drawn illustrations and the illustrations by Edward Koren are fabulous. The illustrations are an integral component of A Dog's Life and can be enjoyed on their own merit. I liken the illustrations to editorial cartoons drawn from a dog's point of view.Recommendation Of A Dog's Life
I highly recommend this book for all dog owners or dog fans. It is a perfect gift for all occasions including a fun gift for the new dog parent. Smiles and are guaranteed throughout the book along with frequent nods of agreement as to why dogs are so special, so beloved and so part of the family.More Dog Reviews
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Sounds like a fabulous book. You know me: If there's a dog in the story, I'm reading it. I sure do wish we really could read a dog's mind. We must seem pretty odd to our doggos at times... well, most of the time!
ReplyDeleteWe can only wonder what they think of us!
DeleteI'm with Diana ~ love dog stories, especially when the narration of the tale (pun intended) is the dog itself. I swear there are times you can actually read your dog's thoughts ("You actually MEAN that?") from their expression! Looking forward to a delightful read!
ReplyDeleteThe expressions tell the tale :) don't they!
ReplyDeleteYes, indeed! :)
DeleteIt sounds like a delightfully fun book to read! I could easily image (especially when I see his response expressions) Merlin writing a book about his parents and their "interesting" ways and opinions. Like you, I also love hand-drawn illustrations. I can't draw a stick person, so I very much appreciate the talent.
ReplyDeleteI am with you with the drawing challenge!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds absolutely delightful! Just reading your wonderful review of it has me smiling and feeling “warm and fuzzy.” Looking forward to reading the book and seeing the rest of the hand drawn illustrations!
ReplyDeleteAwe, sounds so good. What a great gift idea for those who rescue dogs. I know a few people who rescue - have to add this to my family gift list.
ReplyDeleteOh I have a good friend that would enjoy this book I'm sure. She just rescued a little guy and is head over heels in love. This would be a good book for her to enjoy along with the new pup in her life. Then after she's done reading it I will borrow it so that I can enjoy it too!
ReplyDelete