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Bookshop Dogs
Dogs of all shapes and sizes visit Ruth Shaw's three wee bookshops in Manapōuri in the far south of Aotearoa New Zealand. Local dogs, holiday house dogs, travelling dogs – many have great stories, be they funny, sad, strange, bemusing, quirky or sweet.
Woven throughout are tales of the very special Hunza, the dog who worked with troubled teens alongside Shaw when she was a youth worker.
This is a window into the wonderful world of Shaw and her generous love of people, books and dogs.
Woven throughout are tales of the very special Hunza, the dog who worked with troubled teens alongside Shaw when she was a youth worker.
This is a window into the wonderful world of Shaw and her generous love of people, books and dogs.
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Published November 1, 2024
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About the author
Ruth Shaw
4 books75 followers Ruth Shaw runs two wee bookshops in remote Manapouri in the far south of New Zealand.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
November 21, 2023
A delightful book about two of my favourite topics - dogs and bookshops. Sad and also funny in equal measure, Ruth's stories stirred up a lot of emotions. The photos are wonderful and Ruth has described many personalities - dogs and people. She has captured the essence of all the characters in her book. Hunza and Ruth's work with youth is particularly moving.
I bought the book in remembrance of our darling Molly who died, almost instantly, when she was hit by a car - trotting across the road to say hello to some cyclists. She would have loved meeting everyone at Ruth and Lance's bookshop.
After hearing Ruth talk at the Dunedin Writer and Readers Festival, where one of her stories brought the audience to tears, and she signed the book in Molly's memory. I want to read her first book - The Bookseller at the End of the World. Apparently, it is a stunner.
I bought the book in remembrance of our darling Molly who died, almost instantly, when she was hit by a car - trotting across the road to say hello to some cyclists. She would have loved meeting everyone at Ruth and Lance's bookshop.
After hearing Ruth talk at the Dunedin Writer and Readers Festival, where one of her stories brought the audience to tears, and she signed the book in Molly's memory. I want to read her first book - The Bookseller at the End of the World. Apparently, it is a stunner.
August 13, 2025
If you liked Ruth’s first book’The Bookseller at the End of the World, you will LOVE this book. A must read for dog lovers.
December 31, 2023
This book made me want to visit the Southland of New Zealand. I think there's really a whole different world out there. Haha! Far from the hustle and bustle of the city life. But not without the usual challenges, of course.
There were stories not just about the dogs who visit the bookshop, but also of their owners. I especially enjoyed reading about the author's experiences as a remote youth worker with her dog, Hunza.
Hayyy. Iba talaga ang comfort and support na nabibigay ng dogs (and animals, in general).
---
'How is it,' I say, 'that a dog can totally embed itself in every facet of your life? No matter what happens they will always forgive you. You are a friend forever.'
There were stories not just about the dogs who visit the bookshop, but also of their owners. I especially enjoyed reading about the author's experiences as a remote youth worker with her dog, Hunza.
Hayyy. Iba talaga ang comfort and support na nabibigay ng dogs (and animals, in general).
---
'How is it,' I say, 'that a dog can totally embed itself in every facet of your life? No matter what happens they will always forgive you. You are a friend forever.'
January 14, 2026
Charming stories of various dogs who visit Shaw’s bookshops in Aotearoa New Zealand, interspersed with stories of Hunza (a very special dog) who worked diligently (during his relatively short life) alongside Shaw during her role as a youth worker.
This is a fascinating memoir, which showcases a mixture of funny, bemusing and sad characters (dogs and people alike), as well as book discussion!
This is equally heartwarming and heartbreaking, a lovely read for anyone who appreciates how special dogs (of all varieties) actually are ❤️
This is a fascinating memoir, which showcases a mixture of funny, bemusing and sad characters (dogs and people alike), as well as book discussion!
This is equally heartwarming and heartbreaking, a lovely read for anyone who appreciates how special dogs (of all varieties) actually are ❤️
January 22, 2024
This was a quick and lovely read. Ruth obviously adores dogs and they love her. There were some beautiful stories about dogs she’s met and one heartbreaking chapter. After reading this it’s apparent that Ruth has touched the lives of many people, what a treasure she is!
July 20, 2025
Such a lovely read to dip in and out of! Loved all the stories and Hunza in particular!! Some very sad stories about family dogs 😢 definitely not as in depth as her first book but that’s to be expected
August 9, 2024
As utterly beautiful as anticipated.
November 4, 2024
Dogs are the most precious creatures on the planet and must be protected at all costs
July 21, 2025
What a delightful read and I know exactly who I'm giving this book to! I cried, and I smiled with the mention of my dad on page 196. How wonderful are pets ❤️ And books ❤️
November 5, 2024
Finally finished it!!
One of my fav dog books. Love all the little stories and such a nice pick up put down read.
One of my fav dog books. Love all the little stories and such a nice pick up put down read.
November 11, 2025
I needed easy sweet uplifting book to read and this was it. And this was all about dogs 🐶 so I really can’t complain.
February 3, 2024
A decent read filled mostly with short anecdotes about the various dogs that visit the Wee Bookshops in Manapōuri, New Zealand. I found the most engaging part, however, to be the ongoing story of Hunza, the author’s old dog that came to work with her while she was a youth worker in Invercargill, long before the bookshops. I would have read a whole book just about Hunza and Ruth’s work - hence the slightly lower rating as I felt that after reading about Hunza and all of the young people he helped throughout his relatively short life, most of the other dog stories in this book fell a bit flat. Overall worth the read though, if only for Hunza!
January 30, 2024
3.5⭐
It has been a while since I read a non fiction book, and the ones I have read have been of the true crime variety. So me picking this book up was a great way to read something that I do not usually read both in terms of it being non fiction and within that subset, something that I've never read. I stumbled on this book a couple of days ago and thought I needed to give it a try and now I have.
I was unsure about the book at first. I love dogs and with a title like Bookshop Dogs I thought I would instantly love it. For the first few stories, though well written and engaging, I wasn't sure I liked the way this book was structured. But as I read about the dogs that visited this tiny Bookshop in New Zealand along with their owners and about Hunza - the authors dog I started to love the book.
I learnt about not just the dogs and their personalities, but also about their owners and how some of them saved each other. Some of the dogs were lockdown puppies, some were working dogs and a few have since passed on. And I am honoured to have known these dogs even if it will ever be through the reading of this book.
This book made me smile and cry. It made me appreciate the time I have with the goofy, lazy dog we have at home, who has turned our tiny library into his room and sleeps his days away - Ringo.
It has been a while since I read a non fiction book, and the ones I have read have been of the true crime variety. So me picking this book up was a great way to read something that I do not usually read both in terms of it being non fiction and within that subset, something that I've never read. I stumbled on this book a couple of days ago and thought I needed to give it a try and now I have.
I was unsure about the book at first. I love dogs and with a title like Bookshop Dogs I thought I would instantly love it. For the first few stories, though well written and engaging, I wasn't sure I liked the way this book was structured. But as I read about the dogs that visited this tiny Bookshop in New Zealand along with their owners and about Hunza - the authors dog I started to love the book.
I learnt about not just the dogs and their personalities, but also about their owners and how some of them saved each other. Some of the dogs were lockdown puppies, some were working dogs and a few have since passed on. And I am honoured to have known these dogs even if it will ever be through the reading of this book.
This book made me smile and cry. It made me appreciate the time I have with the goofy, lazy dog we have at home, who has turned our tiny library into his room and sleeps his days away - Ringo.
March 16, 2024
Such an incredibly sweet, wholesome, honest, lovely but also sad book. I love Ruth’s style of writing and how she interweaved the stories of various dogs (with gorgeous portrait photos) and their owners with stories of her life, and of course her dog Hunza. This is a beautiful book for anyone who has felt the power of the unconditional love and simple, uncomplicated relationship of an animal. There were some truly heartbreaking but also powerful moments where animals allowed for deep connection and comfort for people going through their darkest moments.
Thank you Ruth for your lovely book.
Thank you Ruth for your lovely book.
August 16, 2024
4 1/2 ⭐️
I absolutely adored the Bookshop Dogs, the second book written by Ruth Shaw.
It is a celebration of dogs, but more importantly a celebration of love and community.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the frequent visitors to the Bookshop, their personalities and quirks shining through!
I would happily read a supermarket shopping list written by Ruth so I hope there is another book in the works!
I absolutely adored the Bookshop Dogs, the second book written by Ruth Shaw.
It is a celebration of dogs, but more importantly a celebration of love and community.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the frequent visitors to the Bookshop, their personalities and quirks shining through!
I would happily read a supermarket shopping list written by Ruth so I hope there is another book in the works!
November 5, 2023
Heartwarming with a few heartbreaking moments too, this book is perfect for lovers of books and dogs alike. Each chapter features a different dog that Ruth Shaw has come across while running her bookstores, plus chapters featuring her own dog too. Perfect to dip in and out of, or sit and binge all in one go! If you liked Bookseller at the End of the World and like dogs, this one is for you.
August 31, 2024
Laughed a lot and cried even more, proof that dogs are special creatures.
I suggest this one should be on the list for reluctant readers of all ages who like dogs. Done and dusted in quick smart time.
I wonder if Ruth has another gem to follow these first two books? I’m in.
I suggest this one should be on the list for reluctant readers of all ages who like dogs. Done and dusted in quick smart time.
I wonder if Ruth has another gem to follow these first two books? I’m in.
November 25, 2024
A therapeutic book, each chapter a story about dogs and their owners who come into her wee bookshops, interwoven with stories about her own life with dogs. Lovely encounters and sketches of life at the end of the world.
March 12, 2024
This book was absolutely refreshing. A gorgeous story by an incredible New Zealander. Definitely a must read for all dog lovers - you’ll need to give your dog a big squeeze once you’ve finished.
May 13, 2024
A lovely collection of tales about dogs that have come into the lives of the author who has bookshops in Manapouri. Delight for any dog lover.
October 23, 2024
I love Ruth!! So happy to have met her when visiting her wee bookshops in Manapouri - such a sweet lady! A mega heartwarming read ❤️
February 5, 2024
So simple yet beautiful. Made me giggle and cry , and once I'd finished I had to go and give my four-legged baby girl an extra big cuddle.
December 29, 2023
Ruth (a NZ author and book lover) is a wonderful storyteller. I really enjoyed her first book, The bookseller at the end of the world. I knew I would enjoy this book and fell in love with each of the short stories about the dogs that come to visit her wee bookshops. A warm and uplifting book. It seems to be a lot of dogs die from cancer. 😢
October 27, 2023
So good, couldn’t put it down, Ruth is such a good story teller, if you havent read her first book The bookseller at the end of the world, you must it’s a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ as well
August 29, 2025
Bookshops and dogs and bookshop dogs, what could be better. I had to eek this out otherwise I would have read it all in one day.
January 20, 2025
This book… I am obsessed with it. Firstly what an awesome set out this book has, I loved the way we read about Hanza all throughout the book and then switch back to a story about some of these bookshop dogs. Hanza and the amazing things he did truly touched my heart, I even got quite emotional at the end of this book which hasn’t happened to me while reading before. Definitely a must read and I’m sure at some point I will be getting it out of the bookshelf to read again!
June 16, 2024
Absolute 5 🌟
All the smiles, laughs and tears, thanks to the book and each unique soul in it.
I’d leave nothing here so that I can revisit it at some point as if it was my first read.
All the smiles, laughs and tears, thanks to the book and each unique soul in it.
I’d leave nothing here so that I can revisit it at some point as if it was my first read.
November 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Four stars.
Bookshop Dogs by Ruth Shaw is a collection of heartwarming stories about dogs who visit her three bookshops in New Zealand, alongside anecdotes about her own dogs. The book includes tales of local and traveling dogs and focuses on the bond between people, animals, and books. A recurring character is Hunza, her German Shepherd who worked with troubled teens before the bookshops opened, and his story is woven throughout the book.
Since I'm so behind on writing my reviews, I'm going to do somewhat less than I would normally do when writing a review. Just until I catch up (just 20 or so more to go...) So what I am going to do now is just talk about what I think the best thing about the book is and what the worst thing about the book is. I'll start with the best thing: this book is a genuine love story to dogs. I also love dogs and I found this so poignant and real. The absolute unconditional love and adoration that dog lovers have for their fur babies. Each individual story was accompanied by a gorgeous photo of the dog being spoken about and I think perhaps the owner’s handwritten version of their dog’s name. The dogs were varied and different and all so loved and appreciated.
My least favourite part about this book was how fricking sad it was in lots of parts. I myself have had much loved dogs that have crossed the rainbow bridge, and I’m certain that this is why certain parts of this book touched me so much. But I thought that this book would be at least somewhat less emotionally difficult to read than the first book I read by Ruth, the first book she wrote was quite harrowing. I had to keep stopping to have a little cry and calm myself down. Not every story was sad, but enough were that it was a lot for my poor heart that misses my dogs. It was still lovely and well written, but that was hard to read and is still with me now and it’s been a couple of weeks.
Four stars.
Bookshop Dogs by Ruth Shaw is a collection of heartwarming stories about dogs who visit her three bookshops in New Zealand, alongside anecdotes about her own dogs. The book includes tales of local and traveling dogs and focuses on the bond between people, animals, and books. A recurring character is Hunza, her German Shepherd who worked with troubled teens before the bookshops opened, and his story is woven throughout the book.
Since I'm so behind on writing my reviews, I'm going to do somewhat less than I would normally do when writing a review. Just until I catch up (just 20 or so more to go...) So what I am going to do now is just talk about what I think the best thing about the book is and what the worst thing about the book is. I'll start with the best thing: this book is a genuine love story to dogs. I also love dogs and I found this so poignant and real. The absolute unconditional love and adoration that dog lovers have for their fur babies. Each individual story was accompanied by a gorgeous photo of the dog being spoken about and I think perhaps the owner’s handwritten version of their dog’s name. The dogs were varied and different and all so loved and appreciated.
My least favourite part about this book was how fricking sad it was in lots of parts. I myself have had much loved dogs that have crossed the rainbow bridge, and I’m certain that this is why certain parts of this book touched me so much. But I thought that this book would be at least somewhat less emotionally difficult to read than the first book I read by Ruth, the first book she wrote was quite harrowing. I had to keep stopping to have a little cry and calm myself down. Not every story was sad, but enough were that it was a lot for my poor heart that misses my dogs. It was still lovely and well written, but that was hard to read and is still with me now and it’s been a couple of weeks.
April 8, 2024
I had the great good fortune recently to visit Ruth Shaw and her book shop business in Manapouri. I had read The Bookseller at the End of the World, but there is nothing like actually going to the end of the world to see for yourself and get the full immersive experience. Naturally there was a dog, and while we were there just enjoying the atmosphere, the open gorgeously laid out spaces, other tourists turned up, and there was another dog. We chatted about the book publishing experience and how she came to write the Bookshop Dogs book. So I thought I better have a read!
To me, Ruth's gift is that she really sees people, sees deep into their souls, and really does make the world a little bit better for many. She hasn't simply told the stories about dogs she knows, how they see more than we do, their owners, and the lives they all lead which could become a little dull and predictable. But no, she has explored and shown how these dogs have made their owners' lives better. How they help with sickness, loneliness, grief, companionship. A number of dogs were obtained during or just before covid lockdowns, greatly easing the stress that many of us felt. Some of the dogs were happy accidents, strays, homeless. Alternate chapters in the book tell her stories dealing with troubled youth in a nearby city and how having her dog Hunza was extremely important, essential actually, in helping these young ones navigate life - therapy dog.
It takes a lot for a book to make me both laugh and cry, and in this I did both. For the first time ever it made me think about what my life would like with a dog in it. And they type of dog I would have. How bizarrely funny! I can see my friends and family laughing at this idea - there's the medicine - the laughter. Great book with beautiful photos of all the dogs, quirky illustrations, lovely quality paper and brilliant cover.
To me, Ruth's gift is that she really sees people, sees deep into their souls, and really does make the world a little bit better for many. She hasn't simply told the stories about dogs she knows, how they see more than we do, their owners, and the lives they all lead which could become a little dull and predictable. But no, she has explored and shown how these dogs have made their owners' lives better. How they help with sickness, loneliness, grief, companionship. A number of dogs were obtained during or just before covid lockdowns, greatly easing the stress that many of us felt. Some of the dogs were happy accidents, strays, homeless. Alternate chapters in the book tell her stories dealing with troubled youth in a nearby city and how having her dog Hunza was extremely important, essential actually, in helping these young ones navigate life - therapy dog.
It takes a lot for a book to make me both laugh and cry, and in this I did both. For the first time ever it made me think about what my life would like with a dog in it. And they type of dog I would have. How bizarrely funny! I can see my friends and family laughing at this idea - there's the medicine - the laughter. Great book with beautiful photos of all the dogs, quirky illustrations, lovely quality paper and brilliant cover.
November 10, 2023
When Ruth Shaw, author of the excellent memoir The Bookseller at the End of the World, walked into Page and Blackmore and I introduced her to our shop-dog Nelson, it was love at first sight. Nelson leaned into Ruth and didn't leave her side as we stood and talked. Ruth took one look at Nelson and said, I want Nelson in my next book. I'm almost finished writing it, but I can add another chapter. And she did!
Bookshop Dogs talks of the dogs Ruth has met in her shop, and their owners. Plus spread throughout the book is Hunza, Ruth's own dog, a german shepherd. Ruth was working as a youth worker in Invercargill and often Hunza was able to be a sounding board for the youngsters; while unable to articulate to adults, they would tell Hunza all their secrets and fears.
Each dog and human story in Bookshop Dogs is equally fascinating... and heartfelt. Some brought a tear to my eye. Ruth has a knack of taking everyday dogs, people and situations and finding the gold in each.
A few months after our first meeting, Nelson and I travelled to Manapouri to visit Ruth, Lance and the bookshop. Again, Nelson just attached himself to Ruth. Reading her two books, you too will fall under the magic spell of Ruth Shaw.
Bookshop Dogs talks of the dogs Ruth has met in her shop, and their owners. Plus spread throughout the book is Hunza, Ruth's own dog, a german shepherd. Ruth was working as a youth worker in Invercargill and often Hunza was able to be a sounding board for the youngsters; while unable to articulate to adults, they would tell Hunza all their secrets and fears.
Each dog and human story in Bookshop Dogs is equally fascinating... and heartfelt. Some brought a tear to my eye. Ruth has a knack of taking everyday dogs, people and situations and finding the gold in each.
A few months after our first meeting, Nelson and I travelled to Manapouri to visit Ruth, Lance and the bookshop. Again, Nelson just attached himself to Ruth. Reading her two books, you too will fall under the magic spell of Ruth Shaw.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews