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Someone to Look Up to
A dog's life in the south of France. From puppyhood, Sirius the Pyrenean Mountain Dog has been trying to understand his humans and train them with kindness. How this led to their divorce he has no idea. More misunderstandings take Sirius to Death Row in an animal shelter, as a so-called dangerous dog learning survival tricks from the other inmates. During the twilight barking, he is shocked to hear his brother's voice but the bitter-sweet reunion is short-lived. Doggedly, Sirius keeps the faith.One day, his human will come.
248 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2010
734 people are currently reading
777 people want to read
About the author
Jean Gill
45 books239 followersJean Gill is a Welsh writer and photographer living in the south of France with two scruffy dogs, a beehive named 'Endeavour', a Nikon D750 and a man. For many years, she taught English in Wales and was the first woman to be a secondary headteacher in Carmarthenshire. She is mother or stepmother to five children so life was hectic.
Publications are varied, including prize-winning poetry and novels, military history, translated books on dog training, and a cookery book on goat cheese. With Scottish parents, an English birthplace and French residence, she can usually support the winning team on most sporting occasions.
Sign up for Jean's newsletter at www.jeangill.com for updates and a free book. If you review one of Jean's books you can add a dog to Jean's Readers Dogs Hall of Fame on her website. Contact Jean at jean.gill@wanadoo.fr with comments or questions. She loves to hear from readers.
Publications are varied, including prize-winning poetry and novels, military history, translated books on dog training, and a cookery book on goat cheese. With Scottish parents, an English birthplace and French residence, she can usually support the winning team on most sporting occasions.
Sign up for Jean's newsletter at www.jeangill.com for updates and a free book. If you review one of Jean's books you can add a dog to Jean's Readers Dogs Hall of Fame on her website. Contact Jean at jean.gill@wanadoo.fr with comments or questions. She loves to hear from readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
March 21, 2018
If you ever wondered what your dog really thinks of you, what he makes of you and us humans in general, and what it is like to be a dog, Someone To Look Up To is a book for you.
Jean Gill wrote a beautiful story of Sirius the Pyrenean Mountain Dog. It's heartfelt, imaginative and clever, and most importantly believable.
We experience life of dog with Sirius, from puppyhood to life as an adult dog. The fun and laughter of being a puppy and growing up with others in litter, learning how to be a dog and canine ways to finding a new life in human family and adjusting to it. And just like in human life it's not all sunshine and rainbows. There are difficult times, sadness and heartbreak, betrayal. Sirius really goes through a lot.
Someone To Look Up To is an absolute pleasure to read. Well researched, informative but most of all moving. If you're a dog lover, this one is a must read.
Jean Gill wrote a beautiful story of Sirius the Pyrenean Mountain Dog. It's heartfelt, imaginative and clever, and most importantly believable.
We experience life of dog with Sirius, from puppyhood to life as an adult dog. The fun and laughter of being a puppy and growing up with others in litter, learning how to be a dog and canine ways to finding a new life in human family and adjusting to it. And just like in human life it's not all sunshine and rainbows. There are difficult times, sadness and heartbreak, betrayal. Sirius really goes through a lot.
Someone To Look Up To is an absolute pleasure to read. Well researched, informative but most of all moving. If you're a dog lover, this one is a must read.
April 19, 2017
We just adopted a young Great Pyrenees male from a very caring animal shelter, so how could I not read this heartwarming book??
The author really gets inside of the head of this wonderful breed and it is fun to read from the dog's perspective. I just want to hug my big boy right now and tell him nothing bad will ever happen to him!
The author really gets inside of the head of this wonderful breed and it is fun to read from the dog's perspective. I just want to hug my big boy right now and tell him nothing bad will ever happen to him!
March 7, 2018
It's been a long time since I read a book written from the point of view of an animal, though when I was a kid these were my favourite types of book. For this reason, reading this book felt warm and familiar, a bit like coming home. As a dog lover myself, and someone who has fostered many unwanted and neglected dogs, I found this to be a very convincing and sadly all too realistic tale. Sirius is born with luck on his side. He comes from a long line of pedigree, champion Pyrenean Mountain dogs. Purchased by a loving young couple, it would seem that his future looks certain. But this book, told from his viewpoint, goes a long way to explaining the many ways humans misinterpret and misunderstand dogs. When the couple split up, Sirius is passed on to another family, where he accidentally nips one of the children. From there, he finds himself in a dog refuge, where things are even tougher and more tragic. Sirius, like all the other dogs in this story, is just being a dog, yet the persistent train of thought he comes up against, is one of tough love, iron fist and showing a big dog who is boss. It was quite frustrating to read at times and I wanted to shout at the pages of the book, none of you people should have dogs!! I won't spoil the ending, but it was satisfying and this is a book worth reading, especially I would say, if you are new to dog owning and are thinking about getting one! A fantastic and thought-provoking read.
March 2, 2018
Book Review Someone To Look Up To
Someone To Look Up To
Jean Gill
Dog narrative
Be a dog; think like a dog; feel like dog. This book takes you on a journey of a dog’s life. Septimus, tells us his adventures in his truthful, gorgeously detailed, life story to search for love and understanding.
I really liked the heartfelt narrative which entertained me in not only laughter, but tears too.
I found some of the passages very upsetting but this only reflects the reality that some dogs suffer. Learning to think like a dog opened up my eyes to see things from my dog’s point of view.
Anybody who has, or has had, or wants to have, a dog - should read this book. It gives insights into what goes on in a dog’s head and explains, with hilarious honesty, how good dogs are in training their humans!
I rate this book 4 out of 5.
Someone To Look Up To
Jean Gill
Dog narrative
Be a dog; think like a dog; feel like dog. This book takes you on a journey of a dog’s life. Septimus, tells us his adventures in his truthful, gorgeously detailed, life story to search for love and understanding.
I really liked the heartfelt narrative which entertained me in not only laughter, but tears too.
I found some of the passages very upsetting but this only reflects the reality that some dogs suffer. Learning to think like a dog opened up my eyes to see things from my dog’s point of view.
Anybody who has, or has had, or wants to have, a dog - should read this book. It gives insights into what goes on in a dog’s head and explains, with hilarious honesty, how good dogs are in training their humans!
I rate this book 4 out of 5.
March 31, 2015
Full disclosure: I adore dogs and they seem to feel the same way about me. I'd often find myself "projecting" what my canine friend must be thinking: Are those deep brown eyes filled with love or merely yearning for a treat? Finally, thanks to author Jean Gill's splendid book I've now had the privilege to view the world from the grand perspective of a noble hound, Sirius (named after the Dog Star).
Sirius, commonly known as Izzy, is a magnificent white Great Pyrenean Mountain Dog. His gigantic stature provides us, the reader, with an insightful and entertaining view on how humans and our doggie friends interact. Alas, in this relationship it is often the human that errs. Izzy remains the constant, but an initial doting family crumbles to be replaced with overprotective adult hysteria and over-exuberant children. What is a sane, sensible and loyal dog to do? Unfortunately Sirius doesn't have a say, and falls victim to the selfish and thoughtless actions of those that should know better.
This is a book about a dog, but it is also an allegory for empathy, the joy of nurturing another sentient being, the pleasure in a loyal friend, and the ability to have a truly symbiotic relationship with a creature completely unlike ourselves. "Someone To Look Up To" will leave you feeling grateful to have been blessed with these grand four-legged companions in our lives; but it is also a reminder that the human must be willing to bear the full responsibility in this relationship. Dogs depend on us, in exchange they provide us with selfless joy; a vigorous wag of a tail or the offering of a returned ball. They care for us too, ever vigilant over our homes and our person.
From this unique dog's view of our world, Jean Gill has opened my eyes further in better understanding my dog friend’s needs. For example, behavior we perceive as destructive may well be an animal filled with anxiety—worried whether their owner will be returning after a day at work. As such "Someone To Look Up To" is a most enjoyable and thoroughly entertaining read--but it should be required reading for dog lovers everywhere!
Reviewed by author Mark FineThe Zebra Affaire and his golden lab, "Charlie".
Sirius, commonly known as Izzy, is a magnificent white Great Pyrenean Mountain Dog. His gigantic stature provides us, the reader, with an insightful and entertaining view on how humans and our doggie friends interact. Alas, in this relationship it is often the human that errs. Izzy remains the constant, but an initial doting family crumbles to be replaced with overprotective adult hysteria and over-exuberant children. What is a sane, sensible and loyal dog to do? Unfortunately Sirius doesn't have a say, and falls victim to the selfish and thoughtless actions of those that should know better.
This is a book about a dog, but it is also an allegory for empathy, the joy of nurturing another sentient being, the pleasure in a loyal friend, and the ability to have a truly symbiotic relationship with a creature completely unlike ourselves. "Someone To Look Up To" will leave you feeling grateful to have been blessed with these grand four-legged companions in our lives; but it is also a reminder that the human must be willing to bear the full responsibility in this relationship. Dogs depend on us, in exchange they provide us with selfless joy; a vigorous wag of a tail or the offering of a returned ball. They care for us too, ever vigilant over our homes and our person.
From this unique dog's view of our world, Jean Gill has opened my eyes further in better understanding my dog friend’s needs. For example, behavior we perceive as destructive may well be an animal filled with anxiety—worried whether their owner will be returning after a day at work. As such "Someone To Look Up To" is a most enjoyable and thoroughly entertaining read--but it should be required reading for dog lovers everywhere!
Reviewed by author Mark FineThe Zebra Affaire and his golden lab, "Charlie".
August 8, 2018
I absolutely adored this beautifully-written story told from a dog’s point of view. Sirius, a magnificent Soum de Gaia (Pyrenean Mountain Dog) narrates his story and that of his siblings when they leave their mother, and their breeder, their “Choosing” taking each puppy to a very different place.
The author’s deep understanding of, and respect for, the canine psyche, is obvious, perfectly capturing the thoughts and emotions of Sirius as he attempts to understand the world into which he was born, and the often unhappy situations in which he finds himself.
Filled with humour, love and sadness, the author captivated me with her wonderful descriptions and lyrical prose, one moment bringing tears to my eyes, the next making me laugh out loud. My favourite scenes were the very moving dogs’ nighttime storytelling, the twilight barking.
Sirius’s story will certainly make all dog owners rethink the way they handle their dogs, especially those, like me, who need a bit of subtle training in managing their hound.
I would highly recommend Someone To Look Up To for every dog owner, but especially for those who are planning on getting a dog. I would even go so far as to say this book should be mandatory reading for people wanting to own a dog, in particular a large breed of dog.
The author’s deep understanding of, and respect for, the canine psyche, is obvious, perfectly capturing the thoughts and emotions of Sirius as he attempts to understand the world into which he was born, and the often unhappy situations in which he finds himself.
Filled with humour, love and sadness, the author captivated me with her wonderful descriptions and lyrical prose, one moment bringing tears to my eyes, the next making me laugh out loud. My favourite scenes were the very moving dogs’ nighttime storytelling, the twilight barking.
Sirius’s story will certainly make all dog owners rethink the way they handle their dogs, especially those, like me, who need a bit of subtle training in managing their hound.
I would highly recommend Someone To Look Up To for every dog owner, but especially for those who are planning on getting a dog. I would even go so far as to say this book should be mandatory reading for people wanting to own a dog, in particular a large breed of dog.
April 5, 2018
Most of this is simply delightful fun, seeing the world through the eyes of a dog, but fair warning: there are some three-hanky moments! The [AUDIO] narrator's soft burr quietly insists on extra attention as he voices Sirius, whose story this is, and then brings to life the puppies, humans, and others who populate the tale. My first thought when hearing the early chapters was simply, "How true!" and I wanted to send copies to any number of humans whose interactions with their pets mirror Mark's. Wisdom, and the desire to keep friendships, stilled my hand and I will instead simply recommend they read or listen for the joy of it; I leave it to them to recognize themselves. Note: I entered a raffle and won my copy but am now hard-wired to review what I read, at least to share what I've loved, as a personal thank you to the creative genius of the author whose words have given me such pleasure. Be sure to do the same!
March 13, 2018
This is the first time I have read a book through the eyes of an animal and I loved it. I am a huge dog lover and this really pulled at my heartstrings. A wonderful story.
February 28, 2018
Sad and beautiful!
I am an animal lover, owning 5 large house dogs, and I used to own 5 horses. One of my dogs, who was a stray who just stayed, and the last dog I acquired is a wonderful and loving Great Pyrenees named Jobi. So needless to say, when I saw this book, I knew that I had to read it. When I see ads on TV about the homeless and sad dogs, I have to turn the channel, as I can't bare to see those poor little animals. (I am not a cheapskate who refuses to donate, I am just a poor old person scraping by to care for all my dogs). Anyway, this book REALLY tugged at my heartstrings. This was the heartbreaking and happy life of a Great Pyrenees named Sirius told from his point of view. It also told of the heartbreaking stories of other dog characters at the hands of cruel and thoughtless humans. There were parts that made me cry and cry uncontrollably. One time, when my youngest dog was on the bed with me, when I started crying, she jumped up, climbed on my chest and started licking my face until I finally stopped crying. She does not like seeing me upset. The writing in this book was top notch, and I recommend this to everybody, especially dog lovers. The write up on the book says recommended for readers from like 12 to 18, but I say for anybody who can read. When I finished reading this, I made sure to tell and show all my dogs how much that I love them.
I am an animal lover, owning 5 large house dogs, and I used to own 5 horses. One of my dogs, who was a stray who just stayed, and the last dog I acquired is a wonderful and loving Great Pyrenees named Jobi. So needless to say, when I saw this book, I knew that I had to read it. When I see ads on TV about the homeless and sad dogs, I have to turn the channel, as I can't bare to see those poor little animals. (I am not a cheapskate who refuses to donate, I am just a poor old person scraping by to care for all my dogs). Anyway, this book REALLY tugged at my heartstrings. This was the heartbreaking and happy life of a Great Pyrenees named Sirius told from his point of view. It also told of the heartbreaking stories of other dog characters at the hands of cruel and thoughtless humans. There were parts that made me cry and cry uncontrollably. One time, when my youngest dog was on the bed with me, when I started crying, she jumped up, climbed on my chest and started licking my face until I finally stopped crying. She does not like seeing me upset. The writing in this book was top notch, and I recommend this to everybody, especially dog lovers. The write up on the book says recommended for readers from like 12 to 18, but I say for anybody who can read. When I finished reading this, I made sure to tell and show all my dogs how much that I love them.
July 12, 2014
Someone To Look Up To is a delightful story about a dog born in the Pyrenees with two sisters and four brothers. But Sirius is no ordinary dog and he’s certainly no straw-fowler. He’s a Soum de Gaia, born of better stock. From first bite to tail-length drools, power launches and flying, Sirius is a unique dog. A dog that wants adventure, a dog that yearns for that breath of love. What I loved about this book was a dog’s eye view of humans, intuitive and hilarious, and so well written I’m convinced I can now speak dog.
One by one the puppies leave with their new owners and Sirius finds a new home. Real family, real pack. Being lonely and getting to the meat of a cushion is what it’s all about, especially when you need a little attention. Just a little persuasion with a pair of melting brown eyes and a few washing up sponges to soak up the stress. Not to mention the re-emergence of a tea towel, thank Dog.
Humorous, clever, and with a touch of foreboding to whet the appetite, it’s not the type of book you can put down. I couldn’t stop thinking how it would all turn out. And so I grabbed a cup of coffee and read on.
Thank you for the wonderful experience of being in a dog’s head. I’ve often wondered what a dog's world was all about. Now I know
I give this book five stars because I read it in virtually one sitting.
One by one the puppies leave with their new owners and Sirius finds a new home. Real family, real pack. Being lonely and getting to the meat of a cushion is what it’s all about, especially when you need a little attention. Just a little persuasion with a pair of melting brown eyes and a few washing up sponges to soak up the stress. Not to mention the re-emergence of a tea towel, thank Dog.
Humorous, clever, and with a touch of foreboding to whet the appetite, it’s not the type of book you can put down. I couldn’t stop thinking how it would all turn out. And so I grabbed a cup of coffee and read on.
Thank you for the wonderful experience of being in a dog’s head. I’ve often wondered what a dog's world was all about. Now I know
I give this book five stars because I read it in virtually one sitting.
March 18, 2018
This is an interesting and well written story told from the perspective of the main character, a dog.
Although I am not a dog person, but am getting better as both my daughter and son have welcomed large dogs in to their homes, I found it quite an interesting read as we follow the life of Sirius from puppyhood through to a grown dog, his good start in life with a loving family until that goes wrong and a few more unsavoury placements until he finds his forever home.
Set in France with good narrative although it is quite a short book.
Although I am not a dog person, but am getting better as both my daughter and son have welcomed large dogs in to their homes, I found it quite an interesting read as we follow the life of Sirius from puppyhood through to a grown dog, his good start in life with a loving family until that goes wrong and a few more unsavoury placements until he finds his forever home.
Set in France with good narrative although it is quite a short book.
January 17, 2016
This is a story told from a dog's point of view. As a dog owner myself I loved it although it was very sad in places. The story is narrated by "Izzie" AKA Sirius de Soum de Gaia (Pyrenean Mountain Dog) and follows the story of himself, his siblings Stratos, Sancho, Septimus and Snow when they leave their mother. "The Choosing" takes them in very different directions. I won't say too much more for fear of spoiling your read. If you are dog owner it will certainly make you think.
March 18, 2018
This is the touching ‘autobiography’ of Sirius the Pyrenean Mountain Dog. It’s beautifully, cleverly and imaginatively written. It also really gets into the head of this most wonderful and loyal animal, man’s best friend. Sirius’s voice is so very believable. There are both sad and happy times, as well as some amusing moments. It was such a pleasure to read!
As a dog owner and lover myself, I can highly recommend this enjoyable book to canine fans everywhere.
As a dog owner and lover myself, I can highly recommend this enjoyable book to canine fans everywhere.
April 19, 2019
I was really in the mood for this book - wanted something light, something to make me laugh, a story about the love and loyalty of a dog with a little reality check on the cruelty of humans. Boy do dogs have a lot to teach us! A wonderful story when you just feel like sitting down with a book that will warm your heart.
March 18, 2018
I loved this book. Sirius is a majestic Pyrenean Mountain Dog, and the story is brilliantly told from his perspective. It will make you laugh - his interpretations of his humans training methods are hilarious, and it will make you cry, as it is hard to read in places. Overall a lovely story.
March 13, 2018
someone to look up to by Jean Gill.
Sirius is a pyrenean Mountain dog and this is his story.
a very enjoyable read. Very cleverly written. loved Sirius character. 4*.
Sirius is a pyrenean Mountain dog and this is his story.
a very enjoyable read. Very cleverly written. loved Sirius character. 4*.
October 2, 2021
I'm giving this 3.5 stars - all the stars goes to the dog ! I didn't read this all in one sitting- I went back and forth with it.... being that I love dogs and all.... cute read
March 11, 2018
Time taken to read - 1 day
Pages - 204
Publisher - The 13th Sign
Source - Review copy
Blurb from Goodreads
By IPPY and Global Ebook Award Winner Jean Gill A dog's life in the south of France. From puppyhood, Sirius the Pyrenean Mountain Dog has been trying to understand his humans and train them with kindness.
How this led to their divorce he has no idea. More misunderstandings take Sirius to Death Row in an animal shelter, as a so-called dangerous dog learning survival tricks from the other inmates. During the twilight barking, he is shocked to hear his brother's voice but the bitter-sweet reunion is short-lived. Doggedly, Sirius keeps the faith.
One day, his human will come.
My Review
These books have popped up a fair bit over the past few years, who doesn't love animals so the market is absolutely there for it. I have bought many of them but to be honest this is the first I have read where the story is told from the animal point of view in first person narration. Meet Sirius, a Pyrenean Mountain Dog, pedigree no less and his siblings as they are prepared to go out in the world to their new owners. We see the world through his eyes, thoughts, feelings and observations with his human, fellow pups and then out with his new owners and growing up.
When I read the first chapter I wasn't sure if I was going to get on with this, told from the puppy point of view and interactions with his sibling(s) I just wasn't sure. However, we get a beautiful insight into the surroundings and the first chapter is literally the first look at what was relevant to Sirius at that time in his new wee life. The chapters are relatively short, which I do love as it aids dipping in and out frequently if having a busy day, I quickly found myself not wanting to put it down.
We get a unique insight, I felt, from a dogs point of view. From how we treat them, our expectations and orders/rules as humans, teachings and of course the old actions and consequences. There are parts of this book that, as an animal lover, will take you on an emotional roller coaster, there is humour as well but just a warning for your furry loving hearts. I wanted to head to my local shelter and give all the animals a big hug and help out, I will certainly be looking at animal charities and local animals in need after this. The loyalty of a dog is second to none and reading about Sirius and the other animals in this tale, ooft I think you need a swinging brick to not to be swept along on an emotional train. It also makes you look at how you interact with your animals differently, I have a moggy now not a k9 and she rules the roost anyway so no changes required.
It is a book I picked up not expecting too much if I am honest yet it en captures the readers heart and attention very quickly. I didn't want to put the book down because I had to know what was in store for Sirius, it is his story and he hints at was is to come, telling it in his own time. A lovely book with some dark spots and emotional sparks throughout, 4/5 for me. This is my first time reading this author, I will have a wee look and see what other offerings she has.
Pages - 204
Publisher - The 13th Sign
Source - Review copy
Blurb from Goodreads
By IPPY and Global Ebook Award Winner Jean Gill A dog's life in the south of France. From puppyhood, Sirius the Pyrenean Mountain Dog has been trying to understand his humans and train them with kindness.
How this led to their divorce he has no idea. More misunderstandings take Sirius to Death Row in an animal shelter, as a so-called dangerous dog learning survival tricks from the other inmates. During the twilight barking, he is shocked to hear his brother's voice but the bitter-sweet reunion is short-lived. Doggedly, Sirius keeps the faith.
One day, his human will come.
My Review
These books have popped up a fair bit over the past few years, who doesn't love animals so the market is absolutely there for it. I have bought many of them but to be honest this is the first I have read where the story is told from the animal point of view in first person narration. Meet Sirius, a Pyrenean Mountain Dog, pedigree no less and his siblings as they are prepared to go out in the world to their new owners. We see the world through his eyes, thoughts, feelings and observations with his human, fellow pups and then out with his new owners and growing up.
When I read the first chapter I wasn't sure if I was going to get on with this, told from the puppy point of view and interactions with his sibling(s) I just wasn't sure. However, we get a beautiful insight into the surroundings and the first chapter is literally the first look at what was relevant to Sirius at that time in his new wee life. The chapters are relatively short, which I do love as it aids dipping in and out frequently if having a busy day, I quickly found myself not wanting to put it down.
We get a unique insight, I felt, from a dogs point of view. From how we treat them, our expectations and orders/rules as humans, teachings and of course the old actions and consequences. There are parts of this book that, as an animal lover, will take you on an emotional roller coaster, there is humour as well but just a warning for your furry loving hearts. I wanted to head to my local shelter and give all the animals a big hug and help out, I will certainly be looking at animal charities and local animals in need after this. The loyalty of a dog is second to none and reading about Sirius and the other animals in this tale, ooft I think you need a swinging brick to not to be swept along on an emotional train. It also makes you look at how you interact with your animals differently, I have a moggy now not a k9 and she rules the roost anyway so no changes required.
It is a book I picked up not expecting too much if I am honest yet it en captures the readers heart and attention very quickly. I didn't want to put the book down because I had to know what was in store for Sirius, it is his story and he hints at was is to come, telling it in his own time. A lovely book with some dark spots and emotional sparks throughout, 4/5 for me. This is my first time reading this author, I will have a wee look and see what other offerings she has.
February 27, 2024
Rares sont les livres sur les animaux et écrits à la première personne. Celui ci en fait partie, Sirius, patou issu d'une portée renommée des Pyrénées nous conte son histoire et il en a à raconter ! Sur la bêtise humaine et la cruauté envers les animaux, sur l'amour, sur les liens du sang, sur la résilience. Un magnifique récit, touchant, bouleversant et qui ne laisse pas indifférent.
March 20, 2018
Ms Gill - what have you done to me? I am at risk of serious dehydration from the copious amount of crying that accompanied listening to this book. I started leaking at about 90 minutes in, and then never really stopped! You'd have to possess a heart of stone not to be moved by this tale of Sirius, the wonder dog. I've met about some really depraved and evil villains in my reading history, but even the worst decapitating, eye lid removing, hog tying, alive burning, limb removing murderers were more appealing than some of the dog owners in Sirius' story. I felt traumatised listening to his, and his fellow captives' experiences as they recounted their biographies from their own perspectives. Of course I kept my hands over my own dogs' ears through much of this book. I also subjected them to much weeping into their fur and endless kisses and cuddles whilst whispering "I'm sorry" over and over again. Unfortunately for the humans in my family, I was listening whilst cooking tonight's supper. That meal in now in the dogs and we'll be having cornflakes. Ian Walker's narration is excellent. His deep, gravelly voice gave no hindrance in believing I was actually listening to a 70kg Pyrenean mountain dog; surely a performance worth adding to his CV! All that crying has released a lot of tension and, in addition, I feel thoroughly cleansed. Better still, I feel extremely virtuous for adopting 3 rescue dogs, (2 had been removed from abusive owners and 1 is an ex-puppy farm breeding bitch). Of course, all I did was adopt them, they were the ones doing the rescuing. Someone to Look Up To is an extremely well thought out and insightful book and should be compulsory listening to anyone who is planning on buying, or better still, adopting a dog. But you don't have to be a dog owner to get pleasure from Ms Gill's captivating work. If you are a human being with the capacity to love in your heart, treat yourself to a copy of the combined genius of Jean Gill and Ian Walker. You can thank me later!
March 18, 2018
I gave this a 3.5 stars or 7/10. My thanks to the Author and Publisher via TBConFB for the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.
This is an unusual book, whilst it draws on some real life events it's a work of fiction, the people and characters are in the main fictitious as the acknowledgements tell us, apart Michel Hasbrouck a renowned dog trainer.
This is a gentle story told from the perspective of Sirius (aka Izzie), a Pyrenean Mountain Dog. Jean Gill has got inside the head of Izzie and is able to relate the feelings and reasons behind the actions of this large dog, from it's life as a puppy to young adolescence.
Not everything that happens to any of us goes to plan and we are all responsible for our actions no matter how provoked they might be. This is no different for our pets, however as humans our actions can greatly impact on them through no fault of their own. Poor Izzie finds himself in this position and not everything has been his fault. As a result of his actions his life is turned upside down. Will he ever have a happy ever after?
If you've ever wondered what it might feel like to be a dog, then I suggest you grab a copy of this book. It could open your eyes into another world and it might just help you understand animals and their behaviour a little better.
It's an enjoyable, sometimes upsetting, thought provoking read that would make a great Reading Group read, as I feel that there is much that can be discussed with others about it.
This is an unusual book, whilst it draws on some real life events it's a work of fiction, the people and characters are in the main fictitious as the acknowledgements tell us, apart Michel Hasbrouck a renowned dog trainer.
This is a gentle story told from the perspective of Sirius (aka Izzie), a Pyrenean Mountain Dog. Jean Gill has got inside the head of Izzie and is able to relate the feelings and reasons behind the actions of this large dog, from it's life as a puppy to young adolescence.
Not everything that happens to any of us goes to plan and we are all responsible for our actions no matter how provoked they might be. This is no different for our pets, however as humans our actions can greatly impact on them through no fault of their own. Poor Izzie finds himself in this position and not everything has been his fault. As a result of his actions his life is turned upside down. Will he ever have a happy ever after?
If you've ever wondered what it might feel like to be a dog, then I suggest you grab a copy of this book. It could open your eyes into another world and it might just help you understand animals and their behaviour a little better.
It's an enjoyable, sometimes upsetting, thought provoking read that would make a great Reading Group read, as I feel that there is much that can be discussed with others about it.
March 2, 2018
I absolutely loved evey page of this story.
A Beautiful yet sometimes heartwrenching tale from on pedigree dogs perspective, of all the trials a dog faces. The way they see situations in comparison to ours, and all written in a way that you truly feel like you are following this animal through their story.
This book has made me laugh, smile and cry, and it’s incredibly rare i cry when reading, but this books is so brilliantly written it tugs at your emotions throughout.
“Izzie” is a character that will stay with you forever.
A Beautiful yet sometimes heartwrenching tale from on pedigree dogs perspective, of all the trials a dog faces. The way they see situations in comparison to ours, and all written in a way that you truly feel like you are following this animal through their story.
This book has made me laugh, smile and cry, and it’s incredibly rare i cry when reading, but this books is so brilliantly written it tugs at your emotions throughout.
“Izzie” is a character that will stay with you forever.
March 4, 2018
I absolutely loved this book, the journey of Sirius was written in such an enlightening way that makes you really think about the ways your furry family members behave. It was a highly enjoyable read which takes you on the highs and lows of the early years of this adorable Patou, I laughed during the puppy months for Sirius as it reminded me of my sisters puppy.
This book will be an enjoyable read for any animal/dog lover as whilst tinged with sadness it is written with great research and accuracy for describing behaviours and also the way dogs are sadly treated.
This book will be an enjoyable read for any animal/dog lover as whilst tinged with sadness it is written with great research and accuracy for describing behaviours and also the way dogs are sadly treated.
March 6, 2018
This is a wonderful, terrific book! Yes, it's sad at times but nothing that is written is a lie. This book is told from the dog's point of view and gives a really good idea of the way dogs (no matter the breed) think. As for the sad parts, unfortunately, the same things happen every day of the week. The only problem I had with this book is that it wasn't longer! Hopefully, the author plans a sequel. For anyone who loves and/or wants to understand how a dog thinks (especially a Great Pyrenees), this is the book you HAVE to read.
April 18, 2019
4.5 stars, but only because it ended weakly. I loved this book! It's a short, quick read and I found the ending not very satisfying, but I loved it anyway. Gill paints the lives, thoughts and feelings of Sirius, his litter mates and the other creatures he meets using a brush primed with brilliant colors and a rainbow of nuance. I'll admit that I am a sucker for almost any dog book. But this one captured my heart and makes me love my pup even more.
March 7, 2018
I have just finished reading Someone to look up to by Jean Gill. What a lovely, well written book - I was fully transported into the story and fell hook line and sinker for Sirius laughed at his antics and cried with him at times. Highly recommended.
March 10, 2018
I love animals especially dogs & cats & I absolutely loved this book. It was great to read the story from the perspective of the dog, to get inside the mind of the dog. Second book I have read & enjoyed by the author.
April 17, 2019
This is written from the dog's point of view of what is happening around and to him. He sees the best and worse of pet owners and breeders and tells what he is feeling. Interesting book though I thought it ended too quick.
February 25, 2018
WONDERFUL read and what a genius idea - to do it in the first "person" from the dog's perspective. I loved it !!! Read it in one day ------- keep'em coming please
March 30, 2018
Started off well , disappointed with the ending
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