Sadie Sapiens

Sadie Sapiens #1

by Jeff T. Bauer

High school, junior year, and Emma is barely getting by, head down as she stays low on the social radar. Sadie, her best friend and constant companion, craves attention and understanding as much as Emma does. The two of them find strength and comfort in their friendship while surviving one crisis after another. Thing is, Sadie only weighs four pounds, stands ten inches tall and talks to Emma by barking. Until Emma notices something very unusual - Sadie displays a high degree of intelligence. Way intelligent. As in Emma and her learn how to communicate intelligent. Just the two of them, by jointly creating a special language only they know. Way special. Emma soon realizes the benefits of owning an intelligent dog with superior senses. Hiding Sadie in a converted purse sure makes for loads of classroom hijinks. Follow their story as the two risk discovery, an unexpected family tragedy, dog fighting, puppy mills and a glimpse into the secret world of canines through Sadie's senses. This is Sadie's challenge, a dog enduring her own teenage angst, struggling to find respect and acceptance in human society. SADIE SAPIENS blends the pleasures and pains of a dog and young woman growing up together, proving that some bonds are strong enough to survive across species.

Genres: Audiobook

326 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2014

About the author

Jeff Bauer is a scuba instructor specializing in teaching underwater cave diving. His other interests keeping up with computer technology, airplanes and rescuing Chihuahuas.

Reviews

[Aditi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A dog is indeed a man's best friend! Sadie Sapiens by Jeff Bauer proves that a dog can be more than a friend, it can be companion for the rest of your lives, giving you unconditional love and support.

Thanks to the author, Jeff Bauer, for sending me over a copy of his book, in exchange for an honest review.

This is about Sadie, a Chihuahua, who is incredibly smart and intelligent. How she learns to communicate with the humans, especially with Emma. Sadie's story will bring tears in your eyes and will make you realize that we humans tend to treat our pets way too inhumanely.

Jeff's storytelling is smooth and the details were not too loud, in fact there were some twists in the plot which makes the story more compelling. He even tried to teach us a lesson through this book. All-in-all, a good book with a good pace. The characters were also well developed, which gives an edge to the story. This book is able to bring out all kinds of emotions through Sadie.

Highly recommended!

[Urban Fairy Godmother aka... Jolene · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway.

One word describes this book the best: Unique. I loved the unique idea of a dog with a higher consciousness then your average dog learning to communicate with humans. The title of the book is explained near the end, but it makes sense if you think hard about it before you get to that part. There were times I disliked people in the book & stuff that happened that put me on edge, but really I think it's a sign that a book is well written when you want to yell at a character for doing something you don't like, LOL. Nothing happened without good reason. The author has a smooth easy to read writing style. Obviously, Jeff Bauer (the author) chose chihuahuas as the star dog for this book because he loves them & rescues them. I can appreciate someone who loves a pet so much that they use them as their personal muse for creating a story about. I only hope that someday I can do for my ferrets what Mr. Bauer has done for his chihuahuas. I could see there being a sequel to this book. I don't want to giveaway why I think that, but if you read it you will understand what I mean after you read the last sentence of the book. If there is a sequel, Ill be there with wings on my feet to get it. The author did a great job showing the world through the eyes of a dog & making you love her & her human family member Emma.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

The beginning of this story is very sad to the point it will make you cry. This story is about loss and regaining from that loss. It is about having a heart when yours is not in the best shape, then giving of yourself like never before and having it returned 7 fold. Sadie the chi Hu Hu in the story is a delicate yet striving little girl. She is willing to help, learn and achieve along with her owner who needs her as much as Sadie needs her human. Being an owner of a chi huhu plus two I can actually see dogs as intelligent life forms unable to communicate to their humans. This is a very cute story and I am sure will be told over and over again by its readers. Recommended for ages 10 and up!

[PC · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rescue. I and those that work with me experience more vividly than most how exceptionally true are those things Mr. Bauer has expressed in "Sadie Sapiens". This story contains not only the inhumane treatment by the evil of our society and apathetic attitude of so many of the 'good'... , but also the extreme intelligence shown by animals which is almost always followed by the human species' inability to comprehend it.
If you love animals, you will love this book. If you are not an animal enthusiast, it is a MUST-read!
About a small Chihuahua with a large personality, this story gives you a chance to live and love not only from within the human characters, but you will also enjoy the view from the perspective of a dog. And believe me, it is very interesting and a lot of fun to look up at yourself through a set of large, Chocolate-brown eyes and decide whether or not you want to wag your tail! This book is a wonderful mix of reality and fiction for adults, and an exceptional tool for children. The reader is taken on an exciting journey with Sadie and her human as they bond for a lifetime through sorrow, danger, excitement, suspense and develop a Language and a Love that crosses the boundary between their individual species! There is a lot to be gained in the perception of human/animal interactions all the while being entertained by the narrative, I highly recommend this book.

[G.A. Whitmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sadie Sapiens grabs your heart and doesn’t let go. A wonderful and heartwarming tale, this beautifully written story touches on many of the issues that challenge our society today in regards to the plight of rescue dogs.

Sadie, the main doggie character in the book, is a Chihuahua, who is rescued by Emma, a junior in high school. The two become inseparable, and through their bond, develop a means of higher communication, aptly called "doglish". Emma initially attempts to hide Sadie's ability to communicate with her from the rest of the world, but Emma's friends are soon let in on the secret when unforeseen events put Sadie in danger.

Filled with suspense, excitement, some sorrow, and lots of love, Sadie Sapiens is a book for dog lovers of all ages. Let’s hope Jeff Bauer is planning to give us more Sadie Sapiens adventures!

[Debbie Zapata · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was expecting a well-written story about a clever dog, something rather cute, easy reading. This IS a well-written story about a clever dog, and parts of it are rather cute but it is not always easy reading. You have to be prepared for Sadie to endure some traumatic experiences just as any human hero would in a different type of book.

There are many layers to this story, and I plan to re-read it to further explore them all. Sadie Sapiens will (or at least SHOULD) make you ponder your attitudes about animals, family, and some of the painful issues of our modern times.

Not everyone will like this book, but in my opinion it is definitely worth reading.

[InCrossCreek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Four stars

Sadie Sapiens was not an easy, breezy listen. I learned more about puppy mills than I wanted to, but feel the details were necessary to the story.

The idea that Sadie learns to communicate intrigued me most. I enjoyed the "how she learned" parts of the book and enjoyed hearing Sadie's thought processes. Paula Slade gave the characters distinct voices throughout the book, and I am curious about what happens next.

The audiobook was provided by the author in exchange for a review.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is recommended for a mature audience due to the storyline dealing with detailed animal cruelty, dog fighting, and horrendous puppy mill conditions.

Read full review in the 2014/2015 Holiday issue of InD’tale Magazine.

[Jai · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even considering this is a book where a Chihuahua is the main character this book grabs the reader and builds in suspense. Sadie's human "pack" are well developed as well. A good read.

[Hilda Mckayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a very heartwarming story.

You should get it because it is heartwarming and amazing, I love how Sadie saves them from Ryan. Ryan was an ass.

[Katy Lovejoy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nowhere near as cute of a story as I thought this was going to be

[Joan Roman Pavlick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sadie Sapiens by Jeff Bauer was nothing what I ever expected. Actually, it was a lot better. This was one full book and being written by a man was so pleasing that he covered so many emotions in one book. Not that a man can’t write like this. It was just refreshing. All the characters in this book make you laugh, cry, want to get angry and sigh at the end when the story takes you full circle. Well, almost full circle. The ending leaves you making your own continuing story unless this is the author’s way of a future book featuring Sadie. However, it is a stand-alone read/listen.

Emma is a young teen that in the beginning of the book loses her family pet due to old age. Her mother decides on her own to bring home a new dog for Emma. Emma was not thrilled. Actually, she was downright angry with the new dog. To boot a tiny Chihuahua and what was she going to do with this tiny dog. She just wanted to get thru her final years of high school and go on to college. Due to circumstances she changes her mind. Jeff Bauer, builds a loving and incredible bond between Emma and Sadie. One that her mother thinks is to close. She promises not to spend so much time with her. Then her dad get sick and her brother as her parents say is him growing up. But, Emma knows better.
Emma goes through everything that every teen normally goes thru. Best friend, wanting to be noticed by the most popular boy in school, getting through high school with good grades and go away to college. Jeff makes her character a strong one. She is smart, independent, motivator and Sadie’s best friend and teacher. Sadie is a special dog. Talents that even Sadie herself is surprised that she has. One that does not go past her brother’s notice. Emma’s brother is the typical “you don’t understand me” teenager. Emma’s mothers strong willed personality that leaves you wanting Emma to say “Will you just listen for a minute!” Emma’s friend Amy and her dizzy personality of the friend that’s mouth is going before her brain. Finally, Emma’s boyfriend a loving and caring person even with Sadie.
What this story does not leave you is bored. I couldn’t wait to get to the new chapter to see what will happen in Sadie’s life. Yes the dog. Her constant little life goes from one extreme to another and as Jeff puts her thru the paces you wonder how she is such a survivor. Unfortunately, he does hit some sensitive topics throughout the book. I was almost afraid to continue but, glad that I did. This 10 hr+ audio was worth the listen.
Paula Slade, narrator, at the beginning I was not excited over her. Thought her voice was too old and mellow but, she definitely proved me wrong. As the story really started to warm up so did she. Her change from female to male voices was impeccable. I commend her for this. I will look forward to other books that she narrates. She is added to my growing list of narrators to watch out for.
I thought the cover was really cute and as you read or listen to this book you will find out why she is wearing glasses and why her last name is Sapiens.
I recommend this book from teen to 70+. It is a well written, fun adventure for dog lovers or those looking for a really good book.
This book was provided to me by the author. All views above are mine and in no way was I influence by others. Thanks for reading and do welcome comments.

[Fictitious1 · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is review of the audiobook of Sadie Sapiens which was gifted to me by the author, Jeff Bauer in return for an honest review.

Not every book is for every person. This book just was not for me. However, I have read other people's reviews and see that many people have enjoyed this book.

I am very careful to only request books for review that I think I will like as I really hate writing bad reviews but I also need to be honest. The premise of this book sounded great - an intelligent, talking dog and her teenaged owner. I expected a cute sassy dog and teen hi jinks. This is not that sort of story. The opening scene was tear jerking and this is a story of loss, grief and fighting animal cruelty. There are some quite graphic scenes in this book that are not for the faint hearted.

I listen to a lot of audiobooks. In my opinion, this wasn't the right narrator for a YA book. I felt that the teenagers all sounded too old and the male characters were a bit jarring. It was very clear when it was a Sadie chapter which was good. A downside to the audio is that you can't skim read the upsetting parts as you can in a print book.

There wasn't a character that I loved. In most books there is at least one character that I feel heavily invested in but I didn't find that. I wanted to love the dog but she just seemed to lack personality and was overly concerned with human mating and pointing out all the flaws in human society. The mother was very one dimensional and I understand the the reader was probably being positioned not to like her but she needed some warmth. Ryan also needed a human aspect rather than just being cruel - otherwise it wasn't clear why Emma and her father cared about him. However, as you can see from other reviews my opinion is not widely shared.


Sadie Sapiens is a book for people who enjoy a tear-jerker where the vulnerable are able to overcome great adversity. People who are passionate about animal rights and know about how cruel humans can be will be able to connect with this book. I would not recommend it to many teenagers, even though it is a YA book, I think it is more suited for a mature audience.

[Laura · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a very difficult book to read, and is a very difficult review to write.

Jeff Bauer has talent as an author. He tells a good story.
MY OPINION is that in this book he takes on too much and tries to bring too many causes out for public attention.

The book is promoted as Sci-Fi/Fantasy aimed at a YA/NA audience.
Without all the graphic passages, there is a really good story here about a high school girl who loses one best friend, then inherits a puppy she is not ready for, and to whom she has no interest in becoming attached.

Throughout the whole book, this girl is the most reasonable and mature character,
however, as time goes on, she loses that characteristic.
Who can blame her, when her parents are not doing their job.
Beyond dysfunctional, this is a family in denial.

It is a coming of age story about dating and trusting and being part of a family;
about changing responsibilities and obligations.

It is also a story about animal welfare and the disgusting things humans do to animals
we've bred and designed to depend upon us.

Hidden between those other elements is the fantasy story, the hidden gem in the book.
It is about accepting one another as you are, learning to trust, and never giving up hope.
It is about respect and forgiveness and doing the right thing.
It is about being there for those you love, even when what you must do is difficult and heartbreaking.

On the surface it is about a young woman who learns to communicate with her dog utilizing a language they create combining English and the vocal sounds a dog can make.
The Sci/Fi genre takes that communication further and utilizes technology. I won't add spoilers.

Again, just MY OPINION, but the graphic abusive passages in the book are not what I would classify as YA/NA.

I would warn that this book might TRIGGER persons with emotional difficulties and challenges.

Perhaps I have just had my fill of violent animals stories, both in fiction and on the news.
I liked the basic story within, but as is, I am not recommending this book to friends.

I wish I could, because proceeds from the profits will be used for some excellent causes and programs.

[Sherri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Sadie Sapiens by Jeff Bauer. I received my copy in a Goodreads Giveaway. It was well written and fast-paced. I liked the characters of Sadie,Emma, and their friends. I didn’t care that much for the Mother and the brother left me cold.

It was an enjoyable read, although I could be biased since I have a rescue Chihuahua. There were some uncomfortable parts of the book dealing with dog-fighting and puppy mills, but they are unfortunate facts of life. I wasn’t expecting this story to be as good as it was. Definitely recommend.

[Ceh131973 · Rating 4 out of 5]

You want a book that will evoke an emotional response? Then [Sadie Sapiens] by [Jeff Bauer] is it. If this book does not cause you to cry, laugh, and want to hurt someone you must be some kind of scary person.

The story of a special bond between a dog and her human takes you on twists and turns. It shows the good of humanity as well as the dark side. Mostly it shows the importance of loving your pack, (aka family), those created by blood and choice.

Now I must go converse with my cats.

[Erika Ward · Rating 2 out of 5]

I honestly didn't really like this book. The first chapters where emma was teaching Sadie doglish it was cute. But after her dad died I just didn't enjoy it. Well it started getting weird after Ryan took Sadie to the dog fighting ring. I didn't nene finish the book because the chapters were getting so weird. I overall didnt really enjoy this book.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was a cute story about a Chihuahua and her human counterpart. All I can say is this is an adorable story for all ages.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abandoned due to graphic depictions of animal cruelty.