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I'm Still Here: A Dog's Purpose Forever
This richly illustrated book reveals a comforting narrative told from the point of view of a loving angel dog, who wants you to know, “I’m still here . . . But I’m also there where all the animals run free, with no pain, waiting for you, watching for you, loving you, and guiding you.”
Losing one’s dog is one of the most difficult experiences we go through and it’s hard to find solace. However, the profound, four-legged narrator of I’m Still Here has nothing but good news for humans. The free verse is equally rhapsodic about the eternal nature of our souls and the amazing sound of crinkly wrappers that means cheese is about to be sliced. This very good dog proclaims that love never dies, that we will meet again, and that if you ever doubted that humans are magnificent creatures, look no further than the humble ball.
There is nothing to fear, because it is this dog’s purpose to pull you (like a bad dog who doesn’t know how to do “leash”) toward joy, and to remind you to relish all the naps and treats life has to offer.
Author Cathryn Michon co-wrote the blockbuster hit film A Dog’s Purpose. Elegant, full-color watercolor paintings by award-winning artist Seth Taylor make this sumptuous volume the perfect gesture of compassion for anyone who has ever said goodbye to a dog (or person) gone too soon, because it’s always too soon. It turns out that the best way to honor those we’ve loved and lost is to be here now, until we meet again.
Losing one’s dog is one of the most difficult experiences we go through and it’s hard to find solace. However, the profound, four-legged narrator of I’m Still Here has nothing but good news for humans. The free verse is equally rhapsodic about the eternal nature of our souls and the amazing sound of crinkly wrappers that means cheese is about to be sliced. This very good dog proclaims that love never dies, that we will meet again, and that if you ever doubted that humans are magnificent creatures, look no further than the humble ball.
There is nothing to fear, because it is this dog’s purpose to pull you (like a bad dog who doesn’t know how to do “leash”) toward joy, and to remind you to relish all the naps and treats life has to offer.
Author Cathryn Michon co-wrote the blockbuster hit film A Dog’s Purpose. Elegant, full-color watercolor paintings by award-winning artist Seth Taylor make this sumptuous volume the perfect gesture of compassion for anyone who has ever said goodbye to a dog (or person) gone too soon, because it’s always too soon. It turns out that the best way to honor those we’ve loved and lost is to be here now, until we meet again.
128 pages, Hardcover
Published September 10, 2024
22 people are currently reading
705 people want to read
About the author
Cathryn Michon
10 books28 followersCathryn Michon has an eclectic career as a filmmaker, actor, comic, nationally bestselling author, animal advocate and TV host. She is perhaps most proud of being a screenwriter on the films A Dog's Purpose, A Dog's Journey, A Dog's Way Home, all made from the #1 NYT bestselling novels written by her husband, W. Bruce Cameron. Having met thousands of people who have loved and lost a dog, she dreamed for ten years of doing a gorgeous graphic book told from the point of view of an Angel Dog who wants you to know they are still *here* watching you and loving you, but they are also *there* where all the people and animals you have loved run free and without pain. Thus I'm Still Here: A Dog's Purpose Forever was born.
As a writer/director of feature films and television she's written a lot of characters, but she enjoys writing the character of a dog almost more than any other. Who wouldn't want to write a character who loves you unconditionally for all time and who is always happy to see you? Dogs are teachers of joy and Cathryn is so here for that.
Tucker, who is both her muse and her best friend, kindly agreed to model for the paintings of the angel dog in the book, but he would also like people to know that he basically dictated it to her during his many naps. He is that talented, but since he doesn't have opposable thumbs, he graciously allows his Mommy to be his typist.
As a writer/director of feature films and television she's written a lot of characters, but she enjoys writing the character of a dog almost more than any other. Who wouldn't want to write a character who loves you unconditionally for all time and who is always happy to see you? Dogs are teachers of joy and Cathryn is so here for that.
Tucker, who is both her muse and her best friend, kindly agreed to model for the paintings of the angel dog in the book, but he would also like people to know that he basically dictated it to her during his many naps. He is that talented, but since he doesn't have opposable thumbs, he graciously allows his Mommy to be his typist.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
April 10, 2024
My beloved toy maltese died almost two years ago, so I gravitated towards this book. It's a little over 100 pages and contains lovely dog illustrations. It only took about twenty minutes for me to read this. It kind of looks like a children's book, but it's for us adults. It's beautiful, gentle, a tear-jerker. It falls under the "self-help" genre, and I can see why. The deceased dog narrates the book talking about how even though physically he's not here, his soul is still with you. He still loves you, but he's also happy there....over the Rainbow Bridge...and he's waiting for you. And there are little signs where he sends you his love from above. There's a whole lot more, but I don't want to give this special book away-except to someone who is grieving over their dog. I would definitely buy this book and give it to a doggie angel mom or dad. It encourages adopting another dog, which is something I greatly support.
Thank you to Andrews McMeel Publishing who provided an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
April 14, 2024
There are not enough words in the human language to express how much I loved this book!!!
I could easily close my eyes and hear so many of the dogs that I've had saying these words. We always have that one special one, yet they are all special in their own way.
Dogs bring nothing but pure joy and unconditional love to their people. I believe that's what they come to this Earth for and obviously the author feels the same way. The illustrations are beautiful. Having cared for many hospice animals I absolutely love that the author included images of disabled dogs.
I believe this book would be appropriate for children to help them understand what going to the rainbow bridge means and that it's not something to stay sad about. I recommend this book for anyone any animal lover dog, cat, any animal lover will get a smile and warm feeling from this book and enjoy the sweet images. Thank you #netgalley and the publisher for providing a free ARC for an honest review.
I could easily close my eyes and hear so many of the dogs that I've had saying these words. We always have that one special one, yet they are all special in their own way.
Dogs bring nothing but pure joy and unconditional love to their people. I believe that's what they come to this Earth for and obviously the author feels the same way. The illustrations are beautiful. Having cared for many hospice animals I absolutely love that the author included images of disabled dogs.
I believe this book would be appropriate for children to help them understand what going to the rainbow bridge means and that it's not something to stay sad about. I recommend this book for anyone any animal lover dog, cat, any animal lover will get a smile and warm feeling from this book and enjoy the sweet images. Thank you #netgalley and the publisher for providing a free ARC for an honest review.
December 27, 2024
A friend gave it to me but she didn't know it is a bereavement book of sorts. It was written my W. Bruce Cameron's now wife. He wrote 'A Dog's Purpose' to help her get over the loss of her dog Ellie after she had sworn never to get another dog again. This book I believe would be a good book for someone who has lost a dog.
It is narrated by an angel dog to give us the message that love never dies. I am not able to relate the different thoughts conveyed on the nature of dogs and the joy they bring, but those of us who live with a dog know it. I never get tired of reading about their attributes written in a unique way.
Here is a sample between words before and words after:
it seems like I left
and in a way I did
my fur, my paws, my tail, my breath
they left
but I'm still here
The text is pretty sweet and is sprinkled out in the pages along with pictures of a day that is meant to look like the author's dog Tucker. (That happens to be the same name as my dog.) I really loved the book and think that quote is enough and suggest you just get the it to read on your own.
It is narrated by an angel dog to give us the message that love never dies. I am not able to relate the different thoughts conveyed on the nature of dogs and the joy they bring, but those of us who live with a dog know it. I never get tired of reading about their attributes written in a unique way.
Here is a sample between words before and words after:
it seems like I left
and in a way I did
my fur, my paws, my tail, my breath
they left
but I'm still here
The text is pretty sweet and is sprinkled out in the pages along with pictures of a day that is meant to look like the author's dog Tucker. (That happens to be the same name as my dog.) I really loved the book and think that quote is enough and suggest you just get the it to read on your own.
April 12, 2024
“It’s a dog’s purpose to love people. That’s how we’ve made.”
This book found me just when I needed it. A few weeks ago we had to say goodbye to our old 15YO friend, and we are getting ready to open our hearts again in a few weeks for another adventure with another companion.
I think I cried from start to finish. The watercolour illustrations in the book are gorgeous and depict perfectly the models’ personalities. They accompany a very delicate text that takes our hand through our grief process with a lot of sensibility (no matter your beliefs on the subject). But it goes way beyond that. The true subject of that book is the relationship between dogs and humans. I loved how it was told, and it aligns perfectly with my own vision. I liked to “hear” the dog’s voice, to be surrounded by scents (*you smell* made me swoon more than once), and love. A lot of love. How training was mentioned was also a great part in the book which made me laugh for its reliability.
Yes, it’s a book about how to overcome the loss of your dog. But it’s also (and mostly) a book about hope, and about the unconditional love that bonds dogs and humans. Just the (short) read I needed.
Thank you NetGalley, Cathryn Michon and Andrews McMeel Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book found me just when I needed it. A few weeks ago we had to say goodbye to our old 15YO friend, and we are getting ready to open our hearts again in a few weeks for another adventure with another companion.
I think I cried from start to finish. The watercolour illustrations in the book are gorgeous and depict perfectly the models’ personalities. They accompany a very delicate text that takes our hand through our grief process with a lot of sensibility (no matter your beliefs on the subject). But it goes way beyond that. The true subject of that book is the relationship between dogs and humans. I loved how it was told, and it aligns perfectly with my own vision. I liked to “hear” the dog’s voice, to be surrounded by scents (*you smell* made me swoon more than once), and love. A lot of love. How training was mentioned was also a great part in the book which made me laugh for its reliability.
Yes, it’s a book about how to overcome the loss of your dog. But it’s also (and mostly) a book about hope, and about the unconditional love that bonds dogs and humans. Just the (short) read I needed.
Thank you NetGalley, Cathryn Michon and Andrews McMeel Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 30, 2024
What a comforting book with the most gorgeous illustrations! An angel dog says that he's "still here," loving and guiding his owner in the great beyond. I shed tears and also experienced hope that when the time comes, I will be reunited with all my lost animal companions. Highly recommended!
October 28, 2024
This heartfelt and beautifully illustrated gift book offers comfort to those grieving the loss of a pet. The author reflects on her emotional ten-year writing journey, sharing how her dog, Tucker, and her husband, W. Bruce Cameron, inspired her to create this work. The book presents a gentle introduction to the philosophy of a dog's purpose, emphasizing that our souls are eternal, their souls are eternal, and that we share a lasting bond.
The book features full-color watercolor paintings on thick, textured watercolor paper and captures dogs' unique expressions and behaviors. A particularly poignant moment in the narrative conveys a dog's message about crossing over the Rainbow Bridge and expressing gratitude. This book provides solace to anyone who has experienced pet loss or is facing such a decision. However, it is not solely about grief; it celebrates the joy of having a dog and the enduring love that never fades.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbymedia.com/blogs/transcri...
The book features full-color watercolor paintings on thick, textured watercolor paper and captures dogs' unique expressions and behaviors. A particularly poignant moment in the narrative conveys a dog's message about crossing over the Rainbow Bridge and expressing gratitude. This book provides solace to anyone who has experienced pet loss or is facing such a decision. However, it is not solely about grief; it celebrates the joy of having a dog and the enduring love that never fades.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbymedia.com/blogs/transcri...
May 1, 2024
Amazing book! Made me cry but gave me hope that we’ll see our furbabies again and that they’re still with us!!
April 11, 2024
The most adorable loving and wonderful book about dogs who have crossed over and are still with us. The illustration alone will make you laugh, cry if you need to and just be SO Happy you had this wonderful companion with you for as long as you've had them.
I read this book in about one hour and I could only think how wonderful it would be to give it to someone who has had the wonderful experience of loving a dog and having to let them go. The book made me laugh and sigh and made me hopeful that on the other side of the Rainbow bridge I have a lot of friends waiting for me.
I've had three dogs of my own and I've been a pet sitter for twenty years so there are a lot of wonderful dogs that have past through my life and I have loved them all, and this book lets me remember all the funny things dogs do, and I don't know what my life would have been like without them. And I like that this book confirms my belief that they are still with us and that they let us know they are there. in little way.
I want to thank Andrews McMeel Publishing and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book about our wonderful dog companions that we love.
I read this book in about one hour and I could only think how wonderful it would be to give it to someone who has had the wonderful experience of loving a dog and having to let them go. The book made me laugh and sigh and made me hopeful that on the other side of the Rainbow bridge I have a lot of friends waiting for me.
I've had three dogs of my own and I've been a pet sitter for twenty years so there are a lot of wonderful dogs that have past through my life and I have loved them all, and this book lets me remember all the funny things dogs do, and I don't know what my life would have been like without them. And I like that this book confirms my belief that they are still with us and that they let us know they are there. in little way.
I want to thank Andrews McMeel Publishing and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book about our wonderful dog companions that we love.
April 15, 2024
I just finished reading an ARC of the book I'm Still Here: A Dog's Purpose Forever
by
Cathryn Michon and illustrated by Seth Taylor
What a lovely, sweet book written from a dog's point of view, by dog who has "crossed over."
The dog explains that although you can't see him anymore, he is still there, and if you listen hard enough, you will hear him
He invites you to remember all of the fun you had together, going on walks, cuddling, going on car rides, when you would give him chicken, or tiny pieces of cheese.
He reminds you that it is your duty and privilege to help your sweet dog crossover because your dog has let you know when it's time to do so.
The artwork by Seth Taylor has a beautiful, dreamlike quality to it that adds to the sweetness of the story.
If you are missing your beloved dog or know someone who has just lost their dog, this is such a beautiful book to read and a keepsake forever.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my review of the book.
by
Cathryn Michon and illustrated by Seth Taylor
What a lovely, sweet book written from a dog's point of view, by dog who has "crossed over."
The dog explains that although you can't see him anymore, he is still there, and if you listen hard enough, you will hear him
He invites you to remember all of the fun you had together, going on walks, cuddling, going on car rides, when you would give him chicken, or tiny pieces of cheese.
He reminds you that it is your duty and privilege to help your sweet dog crossover because your dog has let you know when it's time to do so.
The artwork by Seth Taylor has a beautiful, dreamlike quality to it that adds to the sweetness of the story.
If you are missing your beloved dog or know someone who has just lost their dog, this is such a beautiful book to read and a keepsake forever.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my review of the book.
July 19, 2024
This was an absolutely adorable book! I Loved everything about it.
If you had a dog, or even if you didn’t, it definitely tugged on your heartstrings. It was beautifully written and the illustrations very excellent. I will recommend this book to anybody who has lost a beloved dog, or pet in general.
I will most certainly add this book to my personal library.
Thank you so much to netgalley and the publisher for this wonderful ARC!
If you had a dog, or even if you didn’t, it definitely tugged on your heartstrings. It was beautifully written and the illustrations very excellent. I will recommend this book to anybody who has lost a beloved dog, or pet in general.
I will most certainly add this book to my personal library.
Thank you so much to netgalley and the publisher for this wonderful ARC!
January 13, 2025
I lost my heart dog Dexter the week before Thanksgiving last year. We were blessed with 14 years together, but it still wasn't long enough. He was my rock, my world, my best friend. He was with me for the worst times in my life and the best. I've been bereft and broken without him.
I sobbed over this beautiful little book. It did have words of comfort. I've felt like Dex is still here with me, watching over me. He always took the best care of me and I could never hide anything I was feeling from him. We were so connected. I love the beauty in knowing that he's still hear watching over me while at the same time having "crossed over" and running wild and free (and in no pain) with all of the pups who have gone before. And he's there waiting for me. It will always hurt and I'll always feel his loss, but someday it won't hurt as much.
My 9-yr old niece saw this book on my nightstand and asked to read it; they were the very best of friends from the moment they first met. It brought me bittersweet joy when she read aloud the parts that reminded her most of Dex. I want her to know she can always talk about Dex with me. That I may be sad but we have so many beautiful memories together that must be shared.
Thank you for writing this book and the beautiful illustrations.
I sobbed over this beautiful little book. It did have words of comfort. I've felt like Dex is still here with me, watching over me. He always took the best care of me and I could never hide anything I was feeling from him. We were so connected. I love the beauty in knowing that he's still hear watching over me while at the same time having "crossed over" and running wild and free (and in no pain) with all of the pups who have gone before. And he's there waiting for me. It will always hurt and I'll always feel his loss, but someday it won't hurt as much.
My 9-yr old niece saw this book on my nightstand and asked to read it; they were the very best of friends from the moment they first met. It brought me bittersweet joy when she read aloud the parts that reminded her most of Dex. I want her to know she can always talk about Dex with me. That I may be sad but we have so many beautiful memories together that must be shared.
Thank you for writing this book and the beautiful illustrations.
June 3, 2024
Losing my “Angel Dog” Daisy was one of the most difficult and gut-wrenching moments I’ve ever experienced. She was my best buddy for almost 13 years and was by my side through so many ups and downs.
This book is exactly what I needed last February, when Daisy took her last breath. ICathryn Michon has written a moving and reassuring book full of compassion that tugs at your heart strings and reminds us that our furry friends are still here with us, watching over us, and waiting patiently until we are reunited once again.
I highly recommend this beautiful book to anyone who has lost their four-legged friends.
This book is exactly what I needed last February, when Daisy took her last breath. ICathryn Michon has written a moving and reassuring book full of compassion that tugs at your heart strings and reminds us that our furry friends are still here with us, watching over us, and waiting patiently until we are reunited once again.
I highly recommend this beautiful book to anyone who has lost their four-legged friends.
June 20, 2024
I knew this book would touch me deeply, but I didn't expect it to be this much and this quickly. I'm a dog lover—one of those people who, upon seeing a dog, wants to run up and hug it, showering it with cuddles, perhaps even using an annoyingly high-pitched voice. So, when I saw that sweet little face on the cover, I couldn't resist getting the book. On that note, I want to thank Netgalley for allowing me to read this book in advance.
Inside, the story is a seamless and refined blend of words and illustrations, with the little furry friend reassuring his owner about "letting him go" because he will always be by her side. It's a touching, enveloping tale with a special focus on the feelings and emotions that are evoked here in one way or another.
As difficult as it may be to lose a pet and put yourself in a position to give another dog a home, I found this book so touching and well-crafted that it makes the whole process fascinating and helpful.
A huge plus is the choice of narrative style—simple, with a unique perspective—and the images chosen to accompany the narration, making the entire story more vivid.
Inside, the story is a seamless and refined blend of words and illustrations, with the little furry friend reassuring his owner about "letting him go" because he will always be by her side. It's a touching, enveloping tale with a special focus on the feelings and emotions that are evoked here in one way or another.
As difficult as it may be to lose a pet and put yourself in a position to give another dog a home, I found this book so touching and well-crafted that it makes the whole process fascinating and helpful.
A huge plus is the choice of narrative style—simple, with a unique perspective—and the images chosen to accompany the narration, making the entire story more vivid.
June 4, 2024
I just finished this book and I loved it! I know it's a cliche to say this but it made me laugh, it made me cry and it made me feel good. Anyone that has lost a furbaby should get "I'm Still Here". I have lost many furbabies over the years, and this book made me think about all of them - in a good way. The illustrations are all incredible. But I especially love the ones with the dog paw prints next to the human foot prints in the sand. I know I would like to think that I would have many paw prints in the sand next to my foot prints. Thank you so much to both the author and the illustrator for this wonderful book. I can't wait to get my hands on a hard copy.
April 9, 2024
Ahhh! Such a sweet, sweet book! I can see myself buying this to give to friends when/if they lose their furbabies. People who get it, get it. Your dogs are more than dogs - they are family. They love deeply and purely and once you’ve opened yourself up to that love, you never forget it! If you love your furbaby, buy this book!! It’s hope after loss.
January 31, 2025
This is a sweet story with beautiful illustrations, though it may pull at your heartstrings a bit too much, so keep the tissues near. I read this a week after putting down my vigilant protector, Nina, far too early. The book focuses on traditional things dogs do and don't like (treats, shoes, baths, tricks), so there are parts that will be easy to relate to your own pooch while others miss the mark (i.e. Nina didn't like baths, while Blaine does; Nina loved all treats, Blaine is more picky). It's still a quick, about twenty minutes, and comforting read, and I think I'd recommend it to anyone dealing with the recent loss of a beloved dog. It's so easy to be wrapped up in the "what if's" and the guilt, but this book reminds us that all a dog wants to do is love us and make us happy. They love us at our best, and our worst. And they wouldn't want the adventures to stop, the happiness to end. It's sweet, touching, moving, comforting, and sometimes it's nice to suspend belief just enough to imagine that the message is coming from your companion, nudging you forward to heal or giving you hope that one day you'll be prepared for another adventure that'll end in the same heartbreak. Because it's beautiful, because it's worth it, because they're always by our side.
April 12, 2024
This is a lovely addition to the “Dog’s Purpose” series. “I’m Still Here” is a beautifully illustrated, beautifully written book with a beautifully comforting message. The book itself would certainly appeal to children—the pictures are engaging and the words are simple and easy to understand—but the underlying message is 100% for more mature audiences. Having recently lost my own dog, I was bawling by the end for sure, but it brought me comfort and reminded me of the happy times I had with him.
April 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A quick (one hour) but unforgettable read that touches the heart in all the right ways. While the story is simple and gentle, what truly makes this book shine are the stunning illustrations, each page is a visual hug, beautifully and heartwarmingly brought to life. The art alone makes it worth picking up, especially for any dog lover who’s ever felt the enduring bond with a beloved pet. A touching tribute to the love we never lose, even after they're gone. Suitable for all ages.
A quick (one hour) but unforgettable read that touches the heart in all the right ways. While the story is simple and gentle, what truly makes this book shine are the stunning illustrations, each page is a visual hug, beautifully and heartwarmingly brought to life. The art alone makes it worth picking up, especially for any dog lover who’s ever felt the enduring bond with a beloved pet. A touching tribute to the love we never lose, even after they're gone. Suitable for all ages.
August 15, 2024
This book is so adorable. I thought going into it that it would make me cry but it made me smile instead. Written from a dogs pov it was such a heart warming book for the dog lovers out there!
Under the book you’ll see Lancie and Barkley. Both are there waiting for me. I read the book like it was Lancie talking to me and so many parts were true for us.
Losing pets is so hard but I agree with this book that I’d never be able to not get another one.
Under the book you’ll see Lancie and Barkley. Both are there waiting for me. I read the book like it was Lancie talking to me and so many parts were true for us.
Losing pets is so hard but I agree with this book that I’d never be able to not get another one.
September 24, 2024
This is a gift of love for someone grieving a loss of a dog.
Reincarnation of the dog lost coming back as the next dog. There are many memories of the wonderful things that dogs do and what they love and don't care for like baths are central to this book. Beautifully illustrated, it is a wonderful gift.
Reincarnation of the dog lost coming back as the next dog. There are many memories of the wonderful things that dogs do and what they love and don't care for like baths are central to this book. Beautifully illustrated, it is a wonderful gift.
May 25, 2024
For those that have dogs, who love dogs, have lost dogs, this is the book for you. The connection we share with our dogs is never broken, even though they are no longer physically by our side. After they have crossed over, a piece of their soul remains with us, to guide us through sorrow and grief and, again, to unconditional joy and love. Beautifully written and illustrated, you will laugh, and cry, and be instilled with the hope that one day you will be reunited with your best friend.
June 2, 2024
I had to make the hardest decision ever to put down my sweet lab, Hershey or Hershey Girl as my daughter called her. After reading “I’m Still Alive” written from a dog’s point of view, made me realize that her spirit will be with me forever and I believe she is waiting for us on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge. This book has been illustrated brilliantly. One of those books that you don’t want to end.
Read
July 31, 2025A gift from my MIL in remembrance of my sweetest Rosie
June 25, 2024
Anyone who is, or ever has, experienced grief for the loss of their dog will appreciate this book.
I cried. I laughed. My heart smiled again.
While the text has a beautiful flow, the illustrations are outstanding.
A heartfelt book that would be a perfect gift when you don’t know what to say to someone whose heart is broken.
Thank you to NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for the advance reader edition.
I cried. I laughed. My heart smiled again.
While the text has a beautiful flow, the illustrations are outstanding.
A heartfelt book that would be a perfect gift when you don’t know what to say to someone whose heart is broken.
Thank you to NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for the advance reader edition.
May 26, 2024
Beautifully illustrated, this book is another in the line for the dog's purpose books. This one deals with loss and how your dog is always with you after they cross over. It will leave you crying, so don't read it at work like I did. A great book for someone who has lost or will lose their best friend.
May 5, 2024
Absolutley beautiful illustrations! This book is just beautiful overall. While this book appears to be written for adults, I think teenagers and some older children (depending on the child) would enjoy this book. The loss of our furry friends is a special kind of grief and I think this book, told from the dog's perspective, is appropriate and helpful. This book made me laugh, had me thinking "aww," and, of course, had me crying. I would recommend this book to anyone who has experienced the loss of their canine companion. I think this book would be a very thoughtful gift for someone close to you who has experienced this special kind of loss. Thanks to Netgalley, the author, illustrator, and publisher for the ARC!
July 5, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. What a sweet and wonderful book! This is a must read for anyone that has loved or lost a dog.
Feel good story. Definitely recommend!
Feel good story. Definitely recommend!
October 18, 2024
5 Stars
I'm Still Here is a very heartfelt message from our beloved dogs. Cathryn Michon captures the smallest details of dogs. This book had me sobbing and laughing. One moment I'm crying over remembering my recently deceased dog, Mishka, in the messages of love, then I'm laughing at the silliness of dogs with their hatred of baths and their insane focus on "ball".
I loved the little references to some of W. Bruce Cameron's work as well, like "tiny piece of cheese" and the trick of "take your own leash and go home".
This is a book about happiness and living in the moment. Dogs don't worry about the future, they enjoy life now. Enjoy your time with your dogs because their lives are shorter than ours. Just remember, they will always be "still here" beside us.
I'm Still Here is a very heartfelt message from our beloved dogs. Cathryn Michon captures the smallest details of dogs. This book had me sobbing and laughing. One moment I'm crying over remembering my recently deceased dog, Mishka, in the messages of love, then I'm laughing at the silliness of dogs with their hatred of baths and their insane focus on "ball".
I loved the little references to some of W. Bruce Cameron's work as well, like "tiny piece of cheese" and the trick of "take your own leash and go home".
This is a book about happiness and living in the moment. Dogs don't worry about the future, they enjoy life now. Enjoy your time with your dogs because their lives are shorter than ours. Just remember, they will always be "still here" beside us.
April 17, 2024
As a rescue family, my kids and I have loved all the Dog’s Purpose books and anything written by W. Bruce Cameron. I’ve frequently given “A Dog’s Purpose” to people who have lost their dogs; but to be honest, it always feels like it’s one of those books to read after some time has passed. And yet the message throughout - that goodbye is not goodbye and love never dies - really is what helped me accept the loss of my dog and what I want my grieving friends to know. That’s why I was thrilled that Cathyrn. Michon has shared that message and bridged that healing time gap with this gorgeous book!
The illustrations alone will be enough to melt hearts but Cathryn’s characterization of our dogs just doing dog things on earth (like trying to figure out “sit”, NOT barking and the cone of shame) is so universal; that when Tucker the Angel Dog describes life “there” - over the Rainbow Bridge - it seems just as “normal” and plausible. Which is just the hope grieving pet parents want to find. I could see this being one of those books i give to all grieving friends in lieu of flowers and a card. It’s the right look, length and tone for a broken heart.
My kids are all grown now, so our read aloud days are behind us; but even though this is for adults this would be something you could definitely read aloud to your kids. I’m going to add it to the list of books I read to senior citizens in my life. They understand “there” and many are looking forward to seeing beloved dogs and people they’ve lost, once again - a point that is stressed repeatedly in this book.
I’m very glad thankful to Andrews McMeel who provided an advance reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review of this book. It’s been my pleasure to do so!
The illustrations alone will be enough to melt hearts but Cathryn’s characterization of our dogs just doing dog things on earth (like trying to figure out “sit”, NOT barking and the cone of shame) is so universal; that when Tucker the Angel Dog describes life “there” - over the Rainbow Bridge - it seems just as “normal” and plausible. Which is just the hope grieving pet parents want to find. I could see this being one of those books i give to all grieving friends in lieu of flowers and a card. It’s the right look, length and tone for a broken heart.
My kids are all grown now, so our read aloud days are behind us; but even though this is for adults this would be something you could definitely read aloud to your kids. I’m going to add it to the list of books I read to senior citizens in my life. They understand “there” and many are looking forward to seeing beloved dogs and people they’ve lost, once again - a point that is stressed repeatedly in this book.
I’m very glad thankful to Andrews McMeel who provided an advance reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review of this book. It’s been my pleasure to do so!
September 12, 2024
I put off reading this ARC because every time I started it my eyes blurred and I could not get past the first few beautiful pages. I read it tonight on the verge of losing my sweet 14 year old husky. This is why I put if off because I knew the time was near and thought it would be better read it at this time. This lovely message from an angel dog does indeed still make me tear up but as I continued to turn the pages I began to smile.
A warm reminder that she will be waiting for me at Rainbow Bridge and will always be in my heart. Huge thank you to the writer and #Netgalley for this book at just the time I needed it.
A warm reminder that she will be waiting for me at Rainbow Bridge and will always be in my heart. Huge thank you to the writer and #Netgalley for this book at just the time I needed it.
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