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Jessica's Diary: A sweet story about a puppy with three legs.
Jessica dreams of finding a home to call her own. She is placed in a foster home, following an operation to amputate one of her front legs, and she hopes that she can stay there forever. When she finds out she can't, she worries that she will never find a home. Who would want a dog with only three legs after all? Then a close encounter with a dangerous stranger changes everything...
Told in her own voice, "Jessica's Diary" follows the thoughts and feelings of a lost little puppy, trying to negotiate a world filled with uncertainty and people with unknown intentions.
Inspired by a true story.
This is a short story of approximately 30 print pages
Told in her own voice, "Jessica's Diary" follows the thoughts and feelings of a lost little puppy, trying to negotiate a world filled with uncertainty and people with unknown intentions.
Inspired by a true story.
This is a short story of approximately 30 print pages
33 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 26, 2014
I loved this story about a courageous little dog finding her own place in a four-legged world. Very re-readable for its sensitive exploration of hope, belonging, loyalty and courage.
July 17, 2021
A short and true story about a dog that had a very rough start in life, and about the family that took her in and loved her. Told through Jessica's point of view.
November 16, 2021
A Sweet Dog, A Questionable Narrative Device
The description says this book is "told in her own voice," referring to the titular dog, which is not only farcical but an unfortunate indicator of the writing style.
The narrative style tries too hard to give a human voice and perspective to a dog while also making shallow and confusing attempts to portray the difference between the way dogs and humans view the world. Jessica knows what a toilet is, but wrongly uses the term to mean the corner where she relieves herself. She doesn't understand human words, but can relay some verbatim (and tells the story in human words, which is a little jarring) and seems to spontaneously learn others. She refers to the shelter as a place with cages most of the time, then slips once to call it "the shelter" even though a chapter or two later she refers to the shelter again as if she only just learned what it's called.
Jesica's thought patterns are also too human sometimes. For example: she has had a missing leg since before she was fostered, nothing has ever been mentioned of her foster humans or their other dogs taunting her about it, and yet at one point she has anxiety that nobody will want to give her a forever home because she only has three legs. Why would she think that? She has no reason to know humans are shallow or to feel like she's less of a dog. That kind of thinking is patently human, caused by the nasty way human society makes those who are disabled or differently-abled feel inferior. I just can't believe that a sweet puppy who feels loved would suddenly develop anxiety-inducing levels of self loathing over missing a leg!
Overall, I do like the message of the story: hope for shelter animals, overcoming abuse and neglect, giving shelter pets a chance. Those are great concepts. And the idea of following one dog's journey from desolation to happiness is great! I even felt emotional for Jessica several times. But the writing style and inconsistent 'lore' with regards to how dogs think and what words Jessica should know drag this one down a lot.
I wouldn't necessarily say I don't recommend it, since it's free on Kindle Unlimited and only a few pages, but I also wouldn't rush to tell others to read this. And that's kind of sad, because I adored Jessica despite the story's shortcomings.
The description says this book is "told in her own voice," referring to the titular dog, which is not only farcical but an unfortunate indicator of the writing style.
The narrative style tries too hard to give a human voice and perspective to a dog while also making shallow and confusing attempts to portray the difference between the way dogs and humans view the world. Jessica knows what a toilet is, but wrongly uses the term to mean the corner where she relieves herself. She doesn't understand human words, but can relay some verbatim (and tells the story in human words, which is a little jarring) and seems to spontaneously learn others. She refers to the shelter as a place with cages most of the time, then slips once to call it "the shelter" even though a chapter or two later she refers to the shelter again as if she only just learned what it's called.
Jesica's thought patterns are also too human sometimes. For example: she has had a missing leg since before she was fostered, nothing has ever been mentioned of her foster humans or their other dogs taunting her about it, and yet at one point she has anxiety that nobody will want to give her a forever home because she only has three legs. Why would she think that? She has no reason to know humans are shallow or to feel like she's less of a dog. That kind of thinking is patently human, caused by the nasty way human society makes those who are disabled or differently-abled feel inferior. I just can't believe that a sweet puppy who feels loved would suddenly develop anxiety-inducing levels of self loathing over missing a leg!
Overall, I do like the message of the story: hope for shelter animals, overcoming abuse and neglect, giving shelter pets a chance. Those are great concepts. And the idea of following one dog's journey from desolation to happiness is great! I even felt emotional for Jessica several times. But the writing style and inconsistent 'lore' with regards to how dogs think and what words Jessica should know drag this one down a lot.
I wouldn't necessarily say I don't recommend it, since it's free on Kindle Unlimited and only a few pages, but I also wouldn't rush to tell others to read this. And that's kind of sad, because I adored Jessica despite the story's shortcomings.
April 5, 2019
Legs don't make love; people do
I loved the puppy, but I don't like dogs that can talk. I prefer that the author interpret what she/he thinks the dog is communicating.
I loved the puppy, but I don't like dogs that can talk. I prefer that the author interpret what she/he thinks the dog is communicating.
September 19, 2017
Jessica's Diary: A story about a puppy with three legs
It was a very sad story about how a puppy was abused feeling scared, confused "wondering WHY and what did I do wrong to be abused, injured, and forced outside with little food away from the other dogs".
I cried a lot reading this story and was glad that this disabled dog wasn't "put down" and she was placed in a loving home and given a chance to feel love which is what every animal should have.
Sadly many people neglect animals and I've been very fortunate to have rescued many cats abandoned by people. My cats were loving and made me smile and laugh daily.
It was the best feeling in the world and every animal like Jessica deserves to feel safe and loved.
What a beautiful story including love and friendship of the 2 older dogs who actually accepted her into the pack, ( animals get bought to the pound when they're incidents of fights which actually causes "animals to be put down" by what's written on a card which still happens when contacting a trainer could easily "fix these issues"
It was a very sad story about how a puppy was abused feeling scared, confused "wondering WHY and what did I do wrong to be abused, injured, and forced outside with little food away from the other dogs".
I cried a lot reading this story and was glad that this disabled dog wasn't "put down" and she was placed in a loving home and given a chance to feel love which is what every animal should have.
Sadly many people neglect animals and I've been very fortunate to have rescued many cats abandoned by people. My cats were loving and made me smile and laugh daily.
It was the best feeling in the world and every animal like Jessica deserves to feel safe and loved.
What a beautiful story including love and friendship of the 2 older dogs who actually accepted her into the pack, ( animals get bought to the pound when they're incidents of fights which actually causes "animals to be put down" by what's written on a card which still happens when contacting a trainer could easily "fix these issues"
July 8, 2019
Great read! We have been the "servant" for 8 dogs ( 3 at one ) and 1 cat. All have been "mutts" with the exception of 1, a little Shitzu. Like our vet told us, you get the best of all the breeds that way. While need owning one with 3 legs we have had other challenges -
such as one that had injured her back as a puppy and would never regain the use of her mind legs - well, she lived to be 13, and learned to walk again! Two of the dogs suffered from grand mall seizures. Mutts are, my opinion, t best! Rescues, once they know that they are safe are so willing to show you the same!
Great book!
such as one that had injured her back as a puppy and would never regain the use of her mind legs - well, she lived to be 13, and learned to walk again! Two of the dogs suffered from grand mall seizures. Mutts are, my opinion, t best! Rescues, once they know that they are safe are so willing to show you the same!
Great book!
May 2, 2021
A sweet story, told from a pilot's perspective
Get a box of tissues before you sit down to read, because the first half will tear your heart out! The second d half you've already fallen in love with the pup, and you will find yourself hoping she gets to stay with her new pack, Jake and Nina. Does she? Doesn't she?? Read the book and find out!!!
Get a box of tissues before you sit down to read, because the first half will tear your heart out! The second d half you've already fallen in love with the pup, and you will find yourself hoping she gets to stay with her new pack, Jake and Nina. Does she? Doesn't she?? Read the book and find out!!!
July 12, 2018
What a sweet, sweet story!
I've read a lot of books about rescue dogs but this was from the viewpoint of the puppy who doesn't understand the human world.
It was a quick read and very touching.
I've read a lot of books about rescue dogs but this was from the viewpoint of the puppy who doesn't understand the human world.
It was a quick read and very touching.
August 10, 2018
Saved!
Animals so often trust us because of our treatment of them. They are more sensitive than we give them credit for. It hurt to read the abuse but it was warning to read of her trust and outcome
Animals so often trust us because of our treatment of them. They are more sensitive than we give them credit for. It hurt to read the abuse but it was warning to read of her trust and outcome
April 10, 2022
A good dog story
Dogs which endure abuse can become such loving pets. It is sad that some people are so cruel to animals. But once they find love and positive attention dogs can do a complete turnaround. This was a real feel good book. I enjoyed it from start to finish.
Dogs which endure abuse can become such loving pets. It is sad that some people are so cruel to animals. But once they find love and positive attention dogs can do a complete turnaround. This was a real feel good book. I enjoyed it from start to finish.
June 5, 2017
Loved it
Really enjoyed this short story, but wish it had been longer. Would read another by this author, especially a sequel
Really enjoyed this short story, but wish it had been longer. Would read another by this author, especially a sequel
August 15, 2017
So cute!
It was heartwarming and made me smile. Short story so full of heart. I only hope all puppies think like this.
It was heartwarming and made me smile. Short story so full of heart. I only hope all puppies think like this.
September 20, 2018
Sweet story
You can’t help but fall in love with Jessica as she tells her story. As a dog parents it’s always good to hear stories of group cuddles and being part of the pack.
You can’t help but fall in love with Jessica as she tells her story. As a dog parents it’s always good to hear stories of group cuddles and being part of the pack.
October 22, 2018
Quick and cute
I expected this to come across sadder than it did, so I'm glad for that. Very quick, cute first person point of view from a puppy. What more can you ask for?
I expected this to come across sadder than it did, so I'm glad for that. Very quick, cute first person point of view from a puppy. What more can you ask for?
March 29, 2019
Best short story dog tale ever!!
This was such a sweet little story with all the elements one could want in a great epic tale of survival and triumph.
This was such a sweet little story with all the elements one could want in a great epic tale of survival and triumph.
October 3, 2019
A must read for dog lover
So happy Jessica got her happy ending after how badly she was treated at the beginning of her life. Definitely recommend this e-book.
So happy Jessica got her happy ending after how badly she was treated at the beginning of her life. Definitely recommend this e-book.
December 5, 2020
A Puppy's View
A story for all dog lovers! Must read. A view of life from the puppy perspective! Heartwarming & thoughtful, highly recommend!
A story for all dog lovers! Must read. A view of life from the puppy perspective! Heartwarming & thoughtful, highly recommend!
December 22, 2020
Jessica's diary
Love dogs and stories don't understand why you would get a pet and abuse it they depend on your love and care
Love dogs and stories don't understand why you would get a pet and abuse it they depend on your love and care
May 3, 2023
Precious Read
What a darling read. Short, sweet and just perfect for a short read between large novels. Precious read. Loved it.
What a darling read. Short, sweet and just perfect for a short read between large novels. Precious read. Loved it.
January 20, 2020
Jessica's Diary is a short and easy read (approximately an hour and a half). The story was both heartbreaking and heartwarming. It is told from a puppy's point of view, who was neglected, abused, left confined in a garden shed, and wondering what she did wrong. The story brought many feels but has a lovely and happy ending. I highly recommended this sweet, touching story to any dog lovers.
I bought the Kindle Edition of the book on Amazon for $1.34 and downloaded the (free) Kindle App to read it.
I bought the Kindle Edition of the book on Amazon for $1.34 and downloaded the (free) Kindle App to read it.
June 8, 2016
Jessica's Diary of her life, a very rough and bad beginning!
I enjoyed this story so very very much. Quite a great puppy story. I would like to recommend this for five stars and for about anyone who enjoys reading a puppy's diary of their life's story. I. received this ebook whereI could read it for free on a KU and in return, here's your honest review. Great job Robin! By Angela
I enjoyed this story so very very much. Quite a great puppy story. I would like to recommend this for five stars and for about anyone who enjoys reading a puppy's diary of their life's story. I. received this ebook whereI could read it for free on a KU and in return, here's your honest review. Great job Robin! By Angela
June 17, 2016
To be more aware of our best friends
A very touching story told by the puppy. Made me wonder how some people could be so heartless and mean to dogs and others so loving. I have 4 spoiled rotten dogs I wonder what kind of story they would tell about me and their living conditions? This book should make all of us more aware of our dogs feelings not just having a full water bowl and feed dish.
A very touching story told by the puppy. Made me wonder how some people could be so heartless and mean to dogs and others so loving. I have 4 spoiled rotten dogs I wonder what kind of story they would tell about me and their living conditions? This book should make all of us more aware of our dogs feelings not just having a full water bowl and feed dish.
September 15, 2015
A Bittersweet story
I cried my eyes out for the first few chapters. I had to,put this book down w mms several times it hurt my heart so badly. But then it got happy. I am,so glad that the little 3 legged dog was o no. My cat has three legs and like humans the rain bothers her lost leg.
I would recommend this book to people with a strong stomach as, the beginning is brutal.
I cried my eyes out for the first few chapters. I had to,put this book down w mms several times it hurt my heart so badly. But then it got happy. I am,so glad that the little 3 legged dog was o no. My cat has three legs and like humans the rain bothers her lost leg.
I would recommend this book to people with a strong stomach as, the beginning is brutal.
December 13, 2015
Loved it
I cried more tears in this short story than any book I've read in a long time, both sad and happy tears. Touching story told from a neglected dogs point of view. I hope that Jessica is still doing well and has fully recovered from her tragic start to life, this story is just a short snap shot of the beginning of her life.
I cried more tears in this short story than any book I've read in a long time, both sad and happy tears. Touching story told from a neglected dogs point of view. I hope that Jessica is still doing well and has fully recovered from her tragic start to life, this story is just a short snap shot of the beginning of her life.
February 14, 2016
Sweet
How can a human be so cruel to such a helpless, puppy and that puppy still love and trust another? I will never understand why someone would want to harm any living breathing baby. I wish all little ones could be rescued like Jessica.
How can a human be so cruel to such a helpless, puppy and that puppy still love and trust another? I will never understand why someone would want to harm any living breathing baby. I wish all little ones could be rescued like Jessica.
January 16, 2017
Harrah!
This is a story for dog lovers, others probably won't appreciate it at all! Well written, properly introduced and has a message for us all; appreciate what you have and never give up!
This is a story for dog lovers, others probably won't appreciate it at all! Well written, properly introduced and has a message for us all; appreciate what you have and never give up!
June 21, 2015
Terrific
This is a great book and I would read it over and over again. Get this book if you love animals.
This is a great book and I would read it over and over again. Get this book if you love animals.
April 10, 2016
Wonderful story
This is such a happy feel good story. It is so well written and leaves you with a smile on your face.
This is such a happy feel good story. It is so well written and leaves you with a smile on your face.
May 19, 2016
Cute story
I loved the story from the dog's point of view. Sweet story and a quick read. Well written and worth the time to read it
I loved the story from the dog's point of view. Sweet story and a quick read. Well written and worth the time to read it
June 16, 2016
Bittersweet
Jessica is right. You do not need to speak with words. Love is its own language. I had a girl once that knew that secret.
Jessica is right. You do not need to speak with words. Love is its own language. I had a girl once that knew that secret.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews