A Dog's Purpose / W. Bruce Cameron / 319 pgs

Since starting at the Spencer Road Library in January, I have a longer commute from Wright City and back again. My dislike for St. Louis radio stations and my political pundit fatigue this election year has driven me to audiobooks and I’ve been enjoying them immensely! I just finished A Dog’s Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron and it has greatly contributed to my new appreciation for dogs, which is a feat considering how firmly of a cat person I have been up until now. A Dog’s Purpose tells the tale of a dog who learns his purpose in life over the course of four dog lifetimes - first as Toby, then Bailey, then Ellie, and finally as Buddy. The book is hilarious as we learn how dogs think, their desire to be a “good dog,” to take car rides and eat food! However, it is also a three hanky tale, so be forewarned that a lot of heartstrings will be tugged. I am about to check out the sequel, A Dog’s Journey, and can’t wait to take my husband (a firm dog lover) to see the movie version starring Dennis Quad when it comes out on January 27th. I suspect with the new movie coming out, the book might go on the reserve list. As of right now, there are only three of thirteen copies available, but it is offered as an e-book and e-audiobook.

Dogtripping/David Rosenfelt/278 pgs.

Author David Rosenfelt and his wife, Debbie, are ardent dog rescuers. As Rosenfelt attests, Debbie is the moving force behind the Tara Foundation, named for Debbie's deceased golden retriever, Tara. The subtitle of the book says it all: "25 rescues, 11 volunteers, and 3 RVs on our canine cross-country adventure." This book describes David and Debbie's move from California to Maine with 25 rescues in tow. Besides the move, Rosenfelt shares the personalities of some of the dogs involved in the move, plus stories of some of the 300 plus dogs he and Debbie have rescued. The book will bring the reader to laughter and tears, but also to the realization that for every cruel dog owner, there are more good people willing to step in to help. It's a very heartwarming story. Thank you, Sandy M., for bringing it to my attention. Highly recommended!