Linda Anderson's Blog

A Dog Named Leaf

Reviews:

 

"Part Marley and Me and part Jon Katz... the story is endearing,
and the many photographs of Leaf running, swimming, and chasing a tennis ball
in south Minneapolis are adorable."

--Laurie Hertzel, "The Browser" MINNEAPOLIS STAR TRIBUNE

 

"A Dog Named Leaf is a beautiful story told with honesty and
depth. You'll be changed by Allen and Leaf's journey. This book will fill you
with hope."

--Peggy Frezon, Brooks Books, Peggy's Pet Place

 

Allen says, “Thanks to a loving, intuitive, paper-chewing pup, I am
alive and well today.”

--National Examiner, as told to L.A. Justice, December 17, 2012

 

"Take a break from life’s drama and venture into a world of Leaf,
a rescued dog who have changed a couple’s life. Find out how rewarding adopting
a dog can be, regardless of how impossible he may seem to take care of at
first. Get the book [A Dog Named Leaf] and be inspired."

--WHiMZ News, November 8, 2012

 

"I truly found a kindred spirit in Allen and Linda.  They believe, as I do, that we should always
view our animal companions with respect and appreciation.  Because when you look into the eyes of an
animal, what you will discover is a spiritual SOUL that is experiencing this
lifetime as your dog, or cat, or horse. 
For those of us who have witnessed and been forever blessed by an
animal’s love, this if for you! 
Enjoy."

--Val Heart & Friends, November 2012

 

“The author of a series of animals books has written about the healing
said he experienced with the help of an emotionally scarred adopted dog.”

--Sun-Sailor, November 29, 2012

 

"If you've ever doubted animals have souls, this book will open
your heart and mind to truly believing we are all connected. You will never
doubt again. Your life will be enriched far beyond what you could have ever
imagined and you will have author Allen Anderson to thank for it. A Dog Named
Leaf is a great gift idea for the dog loving friends and family in your
life!"

--Barbara Techel, Joyful Paws

 

"...The authorial voice is distinctly Allen's. In 2006, Allen
learns that he has an unruptured brain aneurysm, seven months after the family
adopts a black cocker spaniel, Leaf, from a shelter. Throughout, he clearly
conveys the affection that he and his dog have for each other and how that
affection proved crucial to his recovery from brain surgery..."

--PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY, September 24, 2012

 

"This touching, almost lyrical book [A Dog Named Leaf] is a very
personal story bravely told by the author and his wife...  This is a lovely story that will uplift
anyone who has ever loved a dog."

--Amy Shojai, About.com Guide, December 27, 2012

 

"...The story is about Allen and the dog’s healing process and how
they helped each other.  In the Epilogue
Allen writes about his and Leaf’s relationship, 'We are two souls who entered
each other’s lives when we most needed the healing power of a human-animal
friendship.'"

--Heidi Skarie, Blue Star Visions, November 25, 2012

 

"This is a story about the marvelous bond between humans and dogs
as well as the healing power of love, which can truly make miracles."

--CosmoDoggyLand Dog Magazine, November 2012

 

"Allen gives all animal lovers a gem in 'A Dog Named Leaf - The
Hero from Heaven Who Saved My Life.'"

--Wendy Garrett, Conscious Living

 

 

"Allen's writing draws the reader into peak moments of challenge
and choice in the life of both Leaf and himself, as a family. It is a rare
glimpse into the deep workings of spirit through our animal human love bonds.
It is one of the best examples of how we need one another to heal and that the
commitment to love through all things brings forth the magic of miracles."

--Donna Strong, Awareness Magazine

 

"Part 'Marley and Me' and part Jon Katz... the story is endearing,
and the many photographs of Leaf running, swimming, and chasing a tennis ball
in south Minneapolis are adorable.""

-- Laurie Hertzel, "The Browser" Minneapolis Star Tribune

 

"I've fallen in love with Leaf! I thoroughly enjoyed this story of
a cute little dog's journey from a troubled past to a loving relationship with
his new master, a relationship that carried his master through the perils of
brain surgery. Allen Anderson has portrayed him with humor and love. The photos
scattered among the pages confirm the verbal picture of him as an adorable
little pooch.

 

“This is a story of Leaf's abrupt abandonment by former owners, his
transition into the Anderson's loving household, his troubled behavior, his
gradual healing, Allen's discovery of a life threatening aneurism, his
profoundly human concerns in the days leading up to the dangerous surgery, and
the special part Leaf played in Allen's dreams to reassure him of the outcome.

 

“The book glows with love, the love of one soul for another, no matter
that they occupy different body forms. It provoked laughter, sympathy, and
compassion. I'm so glad I read it!"

--Kenneth J. Lucas "Ken Lucas" (Chanhassen, MN USA),
Amazon.com reviewer

 

 

"I loved this book so much I had to have Allen and Linda Anderson
as guests on The Real Dr. Doolittle Podcast Show With Val Heart. Allen and
Linda are so passionate about their love for animals and the miracles they
truly are. Their work is focused on the nature and essence of spirituality and
the lessons that animals teach us. This book touched my heart and inspired me.
You won't be able to put it down!"

--Val Heart (San Antonio, TX, USA), Amazon.com reviewer

 

"A Dog Named Leaf is an intimate accounting of a Man (Allen)
facing a life threatening health issue and his Dog (Leaf) who in his own
struggles of abandonment and rescue builds a bond of trust and love with his
new owner. When Allen finds out he needs surgery he realizes his
"friend" Leaf is there every step of the way. Allen watches Leaf re
discover the world as he builds trust in his new surroundings and with his new
owners. (a difficult thing to do when you've been cast aside by previous loved
ones) The comical antics of Leaf lend humor and spiritual understanding to many
everyday experiences that both Leaf and Allen are going through. This book is a
very quick read because you become so involved in the true life characters. You
can't wait to see how it all turns out."

--Donna Owner, Pet Grooming by Donna, Amazon.com reviewer

 

"This is a beautiful book and I loved learning about the
relationship between Allen and Leaf. I bought several copies to give as gifts
for Christmas! Very heartwarming tale. "

--Heather Renae, Amazon.com reviewer

 

"The most difficult part of writing a review about "A Dog
Named Leaf" is resisting the temptation to share some of the many
priceless moments to be found in this wonderful book. Allen and Leaf share a
spiritual journey which takes both of them through very tough times - Leaf, an
abandoned and badly disturbed but amazing puppy, and Allen, a man filled with
uncertainty as he faces a health crisis which could end his earthly life. The
parallel suffering and healing these two guys go through really opened my heart
- and it will yours as well."

--Daniel Tardent, Amazon.com reviewer

 

"Allen and Linda Anderson out did themselves as they shared the
intimate story of their lives with the world. The story intertwines the trust
built between Allen and Leaf, a frightened dog as Allen faced potentially
life-changing health issues. I couldn't put the book down. Each page the love
grows between Allen and Leaf. Thank you for sharing how Leaf overcame fear and
the growing bond with Allen. Four paws up!"

--Minneapolis reader (Minneapolis, MN USA), Amazon.com reviewer

 

"A wonderful book about the unconditional love between canine and
human. I was able to vicariously experience the relationship between Leaf and
his humans and felt drawn into the emotions of the frightful medical situation
through the eyes of both humans and canine."

--Doggiemom7701, Amazon.com reviewer

 

"I know Allen and Linda. This is such a personal account of what
could have been so tragic. I am so anxious to meet Leaf at a local booksigning.
He is a gift from God with tender loving paws."

--Animal Lover, Amazon.com reviewer

 

"I love Leaf, Allen, and Linda. This book is so beautifully
written. I couldn't put it down. Allen is so brave to have shared his journey
to health with us. Leaf is truly an amazing dog (Soul). I would recommend this
book to anyone. I was inspired to look at all pets, including my cat Angel,
with even more respect and insight into their ability to help their humans be
more open to love and guidance."

--Sheila B, Amazon.com reviewer

 

 

"I received a complimentary copy of "A dog named Leaf"
from the authors. It is a compelling, engaging, mesmerizing true story.
Abandoned, then dumped at an animal rescue shelter, and finally adopted by the
Anderson family, Leaf overcomes his distrust, and fears, and is transformed
into a survivor, faithful friend and master strategist, according to Author
Allen Anderson. This book is packed with day to day, moment to moment
experiences between Allen, Linda and Leaf, demonstrating the animal-human
spiritual bond. The similarities between the challenges both Leaf and Allen
face are astounding. Together they move on, learning, discovering, healing, and
helping each other to "brush off the dust of past failures and lapses in
judgment, get back up, and be in the present." (pp205.)

 

The "Building of Life" dream experience and Leaf's
"ticket for Allen" solution is profound and almost beyond belief.
Allen was diagnosed with an unruptured brain aneurysm and......, but wait, I am
revealing too much. You can read the rest in the book. Just before I wrote this
review, a breaking news item blazed across our television screen, here at home.
Another dog, Duke, also adopted from an animal rescue shelter, saved the life
of a baby. In her sleep, the infant had stopped breathing. It was around 3:am
in the morning. Duke, awakened the parents, pouncing on their bed, barking
incessantly until they followed him to the baby. Paramedics summoned to the
house, were able to revived the baby. She is okay. "How did the dog
know?" my husband asked in wonder. I answered, "The spiritual bond
between Duke and the family who saved him. It's like the bond between Leaf and
Allen. Something about unconditional love and animal communication. The
Andersons are on to something. The bond is real. It's explained right here in
this book, 'A Dog named Leaf." My husband is now reading my copy of the
book.

 

Well written. Highly recommended."

--Dorothy Weiss (ORLANDO, FLORIDA United States , Amazon.com reviewer

 

        

“Oh I just loved your beautiful book Allen and Linda. And of course I
am a devotee of this very handsome canine Leaf. Your story is so engaging and
inspiring. Thanks for allowing others into your life on such a personal level;
I’m confident your story will help others in countless ways.”

--Beth Faint Gedatus

"This is a wonderful book that shares the personal life struggles
and loving support between a dog and his family. Written with honesty, humor,
introspection and warmth. I have purchased several to share with dear friends as
it has touched me deeply!"

--Betty Redfield (Syracuse, NY, US), Amazon.com review

"I loved this book. It highlights something I've always believed,
that there is far more going on in the mind of a dog than most people think.
It's a terrific book for anyone that's ever had a rescue dog and knows the
problems and pitfalls along that path, as well as the reward that awaits when
you give your heart completely to a new dog. Allen Anderson's journey with Leaf
is a wonderful story and I'm very happy that he chose to share it with
us."

--Ty Wilson, Goodreads.com review

 

"I was thoroughly engaged by this story of mutual healing. Cocker
Spaniel Leaf came into Allen's life at just the right time. As Leaf helps Allen
deal with anxieties about his upcoming brain surgery, Allen gently helps Leaf
transform from a fearful dog to a friendly, confident and happy companion.
Lovely true tale."

--Peggy Frezon, Goodreads.com review

"By far the best book I have read in the last couple of months. In
my opinion a must read for all."

--Pam Anderson

 

"Read the book with my wife. It is a very touching and insightful
story about a spiritual relationship between a man and his dog. It goes beyond
expectations. After reading this book, I wish I could meet Leaf."

--John Houlgate

 

"What a great story! I have had rescue dogs in my family, and I
absolutely fell in love with Leaf. I am from the area and recognized the names
of places and people; I have also had Mary Stoffel do readings for me. Now I
pass this book to my friend who adopted a black cocker spaniel within the last
year."

--Darlinda Alexander

"5 out of 5 stars. Transcends the pet-animal story genre by leaps
and bounds. I finished this book in two sittings. It's a page-turner. It's
about every day life in its most usual aspects -- making a living and
partnering your spouse. But it's also about how the past weaves seamlessly with
the future to make you whole. It's also about life and death -- enduring a
life-threatening illness and having to go way beyond preconceived limits of
patience and stamina."

--Barbara Buckner, Amazon.com reviewer

"You will think I would be biased as I am one of the animal
communicators mentioned in the book A Dog Named Leaf. I can tell you that I
expected a nice story, but I couldn't put the book down. The trials so honestly
written by the author will touch your heart. The story of Leaf's journey and
healing will amaze you, not too heavy, there's humor, but it's a journey which
will inspire you and touch your heart at the courage, love and experiences of
the author and his wonderful dog. It's very special."

--Marcia, Amazon.com reviewer

 

"It takes courage to share your story. I also think to share the
deep love of a pet takes courage. The fact that Allen, being a man, shares his
deepest fears and also his amazing love for Leaf makes this book truly
inspiring. We've heard many stories of the connection between women and dogs,
or children and pets, but to hear Allen share his deepest thoughts and biggest
fears, as well as, his devotion and love for Leaf touched me deeply. As I read
the last page of his book I wanted to weep. I wanted to weep for those that never
experience a connection like Allen and Leaf have. I wanted to weep in happiness
for Allen and his recovery. I wanted to weep for the courage it took for Allen
to share this remarkable story that some may find hard to believe at times. But
I know it is real as I've experienced some profound moments with my own dogs,
just like Allen has with Leaf. If you've ever doubted animals have souls, this
book will open your heart and mind to truly believing we are all connected. You
will never doubt again. Your life will be enriched far beyond what you could
have ever imagined and you will have author Allen Anderson to thank for
it."

--Barbara Techel "Author of Frankie the Walk 'N... (Elkhart Lake,
WI), , Amazon.com reviewer

 

" A Dog Named Leaf truly touched my heart. Allen helps us to see
that there is so much more going on in our relationships with our animal
companions. I hope it will help others to be more aware of this incredible love
bond between Souls and to also help us respect one another more. THANK YOU Allen!
I love this book! Great for all who have dogs or anyone who has furry or
feathered friends!"

--Misha's Mom, Amazon Review of A Dog Named Leaf

 

"I thoroughly enjoyed A Dog Named Leaf, couldn't put it down, have
given it as a gift, and highly recommend it! I was touched by how Allen and
Leaf were brought together in order to help each other heal from both physical
and emotional wounds. Throughout the book, Allen recognizes and shares the
spiritual growth opportunities he receives through his deep love bond with
Leaf. As a love relationship coach, I also enjoyed references to Allen's
relationship with his wife, Linda. Allen shows how people respond differently
to crises and the value in understanding the other's perspective."

--Lyndra H. Antonson, Amazon.com reviewer

 

"I loved this book. It highlights something I've always believed,
that there is far more going on in the mind of a dog than most people think.
It's a terrific book for anyone that's ever had a rescue dog and knows the
problems and pitfalls along that path, as well as the reward that awaits when
you give your heart completely to a new dog. Allen Anderson's journey with Leaf
is a wonderful story and I'm very happy that he chose to share it with
us."

--Christopher Wilson (Salt Lake City, Utah United States)

 

 

"This is a wonderful book that shares the personal life struggles
and loving support between a dog and his family. Written with honesty, humor,
introspection and warmth. I have purchased several to share with dear friends
as it has touched me deeply!"

--Betty Redfield (Syracuse, NY, US), Amazon.com reviewer

 

"It was a wonderful book. I recommend it to any animal lover, be
they cat or dog. Leaf and his dad are special people."

--Nancy C. Miller (Prescott, AZ, USA), Amazon.com reviewer

 

"A Dog Named Leaf" touched my heart deeply. It showed how the
qualities of love patience persistence surrender and trust----were developed in
2 Souls who were in each others life. It showed how they developed a
relationship of great blessings to each other. The animal/ human bond was so
beautifully demonstrated---I fell in love with Leaf. I admired the journey of
each--I highly recommend this book."

--Robin Houlgate, Amazon.com reviewer

 

"What an amazing personal story! I couldn't put the book down.
This heart opening adventure will help so many people. I learned more about how
to reach the inner depths of listening to my own dog, soul to soul. I
appreciated understanding more about police work from the inside out, and how
to prepare for going to the hospital to deal with critical illness. I loved the
part about dog groomers at the end, and the very important gift of service that
they provide. My dog groomer cried when I gave her a copy of the book. I think
she felt the love coming from the book! I was so inspired after reading Allen
Anderson's book, that I immediately ordered 5 more copies to give away to
friends and family. A Dog Named Leaf is a must read!!!"

--Maureen Dixon, Amazon.com reviewer

 

"Praise to the authors for so honestly sharing their personal
journey with Leaf. I laughed. I cried. I pondered the deeper meaning behind the
relationships with my own canine companions. More than a who rescued who
story....so much more."

--Sandy , Amazon.com reviewer

 

An insightful exploration of love in a time of great stress, February
6, 2013

By Gary Foster

 

This review is from: A Dog Named Leaf: The Hero from Heaven Who Saved My
Life (Paperback)

 

I was greatly moved by this book. It is a gutsy move to expose one's
fears and feelings in a life or death situation. Maybe because I'm a guy, I'd
be quite reluctant to reveal too much about something as scary and personal as
the author's experience, you know, stiff upper lip and all that.

 

The link with an abused rescue dog however, makes this more than just
the tale of a personal journey. It provides a fascinating higher viewpoint to
an already life changing experience. Facing a possible sudden death is enough
to consume most people's attention completely. Allen demonstrates the literally
life giving effects of reaching out in a time of great stress to give love
another soul when most of us would be totally, and not unreasonably, self absorbed.

Ever met a dog who ran for president?

By D. E. Munson, Author

This review is from: A Dog Named Leaf: The Hero from Heaven Who Saved
My Life (Paperback)

 

How about an undersized, pure black, curly-haired, handholding alpha
spaniel with an Elvis lip and a penchant for holding you up to a mirror? Or
maybe one who helps you find purpose, gratitude, and your ticket to life? If
not, you've got to meet Leaf.

 

Allen Anderson, former policeman and author of this book, lays bare his
Soul and shares his life-and-death professional and personal adventures with
such unimaginable courage and humility that you shiver and smile
simultaneously. His hero, incidentally, is an undersized, pure black,
curly-haired, handholding alpha spaniel with an Elvis lip . . .

 

To say this book is well written is an understatement. To describe the
wisdom you ingest when you devour Leaf's and Allen's insights and incredible
experiences is nearly impossible. It reaches into areas you were likely afraid
to explore.

 

I, from my heart, encourage you to do it anyway.

 

D. E. Munson, Author of By The Time I Got To Woodstock

Pets and people, an undeniably vital bond, February 18, 2013

By C. Korpi (Minneapolis, MN)

 

This review is from: A Dog Named Leaf: The Hero from Heaven Who Saved
My Life (Paperback)

 

I learned a long time ago that our animal companions often serve as our
most valuable teachers of life's most important lessons. In his book "A
Dog Named Leaf," Allen Anderson poignantly illustrates this phenomenon
when he shares the deeply personal story of his terrifying journey through a
life-threatening health crisis of his own and how allowing a seemingly
"damaged" rescue dog into his world around then gave him the insight
and strength to get through this trying time.

 

I, too, adopted a rescued dog with "issues." Just as Anderson
did, I have watched my Westie's struggles to maintain a sense of security in a
world that had shown him nothing but uncertainty, instability and rejection. As
was the case with Leaf, his fears made him his own worst enemy, causing him to
mask his fears with aggression. As Leaf and Anderson bonded ever-more deeply,
Leaf underwent a profound change. Seeing his sweet cocker spaniel's unique
personality, courage and trust emerge despite having the odds stacked against
him no doubt bolstered Anderson when his own life was in the balance.

 

This book is written in the clear, honest, approachable style of
someone whose heart is open to sharing with others a glimpse of himself at his
most vulnerable. That kind of human courage is equivalent to Leaf's
transformation from a terrified pup into a dog with a big job to do in this
lifetime, namely to save his two-legged father's spiritual life and thus his
physical life as well. Together, they found ways to deeply appreciate living in
the moment, rejoicing in the little things so often overlooked.

 

These are lessons we all need to be reminded of, and here we have Allen
Anderson and Leaf to thank for helping us all to be sure to make the most of
our own lives and relationships.

 

--Sid Korpi, author of "Good Grief: Finding Peace After Pet
Loss"

"A DOG NAMED LEAF reminds me of a dog in our rescue named Jackson.
He came to us as an outdoor dog and was an unpredictable biter. After a vet
diagnosed him with an eye condition called dry eye, we treated him with daily
drops. After just a few days, he became a loving happy dog and went on to a
great permanent home. Dry eye is a very painful condition and the poor guy must
have been suffering for a long time. Many times we find that biting means the
dog is in pain. This dog taught us much and we were blessed to have him in Blue
Sky Rescue."

--Kim Cook, Founder of Blue Sky Rescue

 

A DOG NAMED LEAF is a moving story of a real family, with real
challenges who had an amazing experience when they adopted a little Cocker
Spaniel.

 

This is a well written, and touching story I highly recommend. People
who question a dog’s ability to connect with their humans, on an emotional
level, may well be persuaded to take another look at that question. Allen &
Linda Anderson make a compelling case for believing. Their rescue of Harley
(renamed Leaf) does not over time appear to be just a random happenstance.
Instead, it was a meeting and relationship that was “meant to be”.

 

When life threw Allen Anderson a huge medical curve ball, LEAF was
right there for the entire journey. Not only that, but Leaf was the only being
Allen often felt he could express himself to during some of his darker times.

--Chazz's Literary Corner -- Book Review

Allen and Linda Can Help You Write and Publish Your Animal Stories

 

Writing for the Pet Book and Magazine Market

Dates: 04/20/13-04/20/13

Saturday, 1:00-4:00 p.m. Teaching Artist: Allen Anderson and Linda
Anderson

Ages: Adult

Location: Open Book-Loft Classroom, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Reg $49.55, Mem $44.55, Low inc. $34.65

 

In 2009, Publishers Weekly called pet books, "...so popular that
they appear bulletproof even in a down market." Two out of three American
homes have pets, and in 2012 owners spend $53 billion on their pet family
members. Publishers of nonfiction books and magazines are actively looking for
pet books and articles that will become their Marley & Me or Dewey the
Library Cat.

 

In this class, you will learn how to break into the pet book and
article market as a self-published or traditionally published author with a
variety of angles and options-memoirs, articles, blogs, anthologies, self-help,
inspirational, photo-journals, novels, and funny takes on human-pet
relationships. You will find out how to build credibility with animal lovers,
deal with hot-button issues, and access a platform of potential readers.

 

This class will include exercises to help you develop the craft of
writing compelling true stories about human-animal-connection for publication
or for pleasure plus a handout listing magazines and publishers that currently
publish pet books and articles. Small copy fee payable to the teaching artists.

 

Read more about "Writing for the Pet Book and Magazine
Market" at www.loft.org/classes/detail/?loft_product_id=15766

 

 

Allen and Linda Anderson

Angel Animals Network – Where Pets Are Family

www.angelanimals.net

 

To subscribe to the Angel Animals Story of the Week, send a blank
message to

AngelAnimals-on@mail-list.com

A DOG NAMED LEAF -- Entertaining Presentation at THE BOOKCASE in Wayzata, Minnesota
Allen Anderson’s new book A DOG NAMED LEAF shares life-changing events that confirm the reality of heaven and spiritual benefits of adopting a rescued dog who might be destined to rescue you. The book presentation and signing will be at The Bookcase, 824 East Lake Street, Wayzata, Minnesota on Saturday, February 9, 2:00-3:00 p.m., call The Bookcase at 952-473-8341 for details. There will also be a special guest: Kim Cook with Blue Sky Rescue -- A foster based rescue based in Wayzata. Join us for an entertaining hour of A Dog Named Leaf.
"This is a wonderful book that shares the personal life struggles and loving support between a dog and his family. Written with honesty, humor, introspection and warmth. I have purchased several to share with dear friends as it has touched me deeply!"--Betty Redfield (Syracuse, NY, US), Amazon.com review
"Part Marley and Me and part Jon Katz... the story is endearing, and the many photographs of Leaf running, swimming, and chasing a tennis ball in south Minneapolis are adorable."--Laurie Hertzel, "The Browser" Minneapolis Star Tribune
"...The authorial voice is distinctly Allen's. In 2006, Allen learns that he has an unruptured brain aneurysm, seven months after the family adopts a black cocker spaniel, Leaf, from a shelter. Throughout, he clearly conveys the affection that he and his dog have for each other and how that affection proved crucial to his recovery from brain surgery." --Publishers Weekly, September 24, 2012
"This touching, almost lyrical book [A Dog Named Leaf] is a very personal story bravely told by the author and his wife...  This is a lovely story that will uplift anyone who has ever loved a dog."--Amy Shojai, About.com Guide, December 27, 2012
"A remarkable story that will reaffirm your faith in the unique and mutually healing bond that can sometimes form between humans and animals." --Gwen Cooper, New York Times bestselling author of Homer's Odyssey