A Dog’s Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron
Book description:
All dogs go to heaven…unless they have unfinished business here on Earth.
This is the remarkable story of one endearing dog’s search for his purpose over the course of several lives. More than just another charming dog story, A Dog’s Purpose touches on the universal quest for an answer to life’s most basic question: Why are we here?
Surprised to find himself reborn as a rambunctious golden-haired puppy after a tragically short life as a stray mutt, Bailey’s search for his new life’s meaning leads him into the loving arms of eight-year-old Ethan. During their countless adventures, Bailey joyously discovers how to be a good dog.
But this life as a family pet is not the end of Bailey’s journey. Reborn as a puppy yet again, Bailey wonders- will he ever find his purpose?
Heartwarming, insightful, and often laugh-out-loud funny, A Dog’s Purpose is not only the emotional and hilarious story of a dog’s many lives, but also a dog’s-eye commentary on human relationships and the unbreakable bonds between man and man’s best friend. This moving and beautifully crafted story teaches us that love never dies, that our true friends are always with us, and that every creature on Earth is born with a purpose.
I’ve read a lot of books. That is obvious considering this year’s challenge and the purpose of this blog. But A Dog’s Purpose has shot immediately to my all time Top Five list of favorite books. I usually shy away from animal stories for the sole reason that I don’t want to read about anything sad happening to an animal. But this book took me on a heartwarming journey that left my heart smiling and me wanting more of it!
W. Bruce Cameron writes in a beautiful way and crafts a story of a dog’s life from the dog’s point of view. (Reminiscient of The Art of Racing in the Rain.) It’s hard not to fall in love with Bailey from the very beginning, laughing out loud at his thoughts on human behavior and interaction. Bailey is such a good dog and his bond with Ethan is instant. This is an endearing, witty, insightful, and wonderfully told story. While there are twists and turns and Bailey is reborn, I loved the author’s imagination the entire time and did not want this book to end. I don’t usually say that about a book simply because I get so excited I can’t wait to see what happens next. But I fell in love with Bailey and I wanted to spend more and more time with him! 
Surprisingly deep, there are more layers to this book than I expected and I loved every minute of it. Everything that happens to Bailey has a purpose and often I found myself with happy tears and smiling. The ending was done beautifully and will leave the reader more than satisfied.
For all dog lovers, I suggest you get a copy of this book today and cuddle up with your loved pups while you read it! This book will make you wonder what your dogs think and really want to love them even more. I cannot imagine a life without them. This is a book I’ll be keeping (which is rare; typical protocol is to read them then swap them either on PaperBackSwap or give to someone else.) But this one I know I’ll read again and want to share with friends and family. 🙂
For more information on the book, or to nominate your pup in the Dog of the Week contest on the author’s webpage, visit www.adogspurpose.com. Stay tuned for an author spotlight on W. Bruce Cameron!
5/5 stars, without a doubt
Fabookulous
Year of the Bookwormz: 2011 
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