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The Best Dog in the World: Essays on Love
4 hours, 46 minutes
Fourteen beloved authors celebrate the life-changing bond with their canine companions in this heartwarming essay collection edited by New York Times bestselling author and lifelong dog lover Alice Hoffman.
Anyone who has ever been fortunate enough to share their life with a dog knows the experience is both profound and transformative. Here, in this charming collection of essays, fourteen celebrated authors share unforgettable tales of the dogs who left their pawprints on their hearts.
With contributions from Isabel Allende, Chris Bohjalian, Bonnie Garmus, Roxane Gay, Emily Henry, Ann Leary, Tova Mirvis, Jodi Picoult, Elizabeth Strout, Amy Tan, Adriana Trigiani, Nick Trout, Paul Yoon, and Laura Zigman, The Best Dog in the World captures the full range of the canine-human connection, from the joy of welcoming a new puppy to the heartache of saying goodbye to a beloved friend.
A love letter to the loyal companions who enrich our lives and teach us about empathy, joy, and unconditional love, this anthology is the perfect gift for dog lovers everywhere, offering a blend of laughter, tears, and inspiration that will resonate with anyone who has been fur-ever touched by the love of a dog.
Fourteen beloved authors celebrate the life-changing bond with their canine companions in this heartwarming essay collection edited by New York Times bestselling author and lifelong dog lover Alice Hoffman.
Anyone who has ever been fortunate enough to share their life with a dog knows the experience is both profound and transformative. Here, in this charming collection of essays, fourteen celebrated authors share unforgettable tales of the dogs who left their pawprints on their hearts.
With contributions from Isabel Allende, Chris Bohjalian, Bonnie Garmus, Roxane Gay, Emily Henry, Ann Leary, Tova Mirvis, Jodi Picoult, Elizabeth Strout, Amy Tan, Adriana Trigiani, Nick Trout, Paul Yoon, and Laura Zigman, The Best Dog in the World captures the full range of the canine-human connection, from the joy of welcoming a new puppy to the heartache of saying goodbye to a beloved friend.
A love letter to the loyal companions who enrich our lives and teach us about empathy, joy, and unconditional love, this anthology is the perfect gift for dog lovers everywhere, offering a blend of laughter, tears, and inspiration that will resonate with anyone who has been fur-ever touched by the love of a dog.
Audible Audio
First published March 10, 2026
About the author
Alice Hoffman
128 books25.9k followersAlice Hoffman is the author of more than thirty works of fiction, including The World That We Knew; The Marriage of Opposites; The Red Garden; The Museum of Extraordinary Things; The Dovekeepers; Here on Earth, an Oprah’s Book Club selection; and the Practical Magic series, including Practical
Magic; Magic Lessons; The Rules of Magic, a selection of Reese’s Book Club; and The Book of Magic. She lives near Boston.
Magic; Magic Lessons; The Rules of Magic, a selection of Reese’s Book Club; and The Book of Magic. She lives near Boston.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,014 reviews
March 18, 2026
In a Nutshell: A collection of essays by various authors about some best dogs in the world. Given the reputation of the contributing authors, it’s not surprising that this is one well-written collection. A love letter to dogs and a must-read for all dog owners and dog lovers.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
At times, the cover of a book is such that you are tempted to grab it without doing any other due diligence. Look at the cover art of this book! Just see that unbridled bliss on that beautiful dog’s visage! Add to this, that amazing title! How is one to resist?!
Thankfully, the book delivers exactly as the cover and the title promise, not making me regret my impulsive decision for even a second.
I don’t often read essay collections, but if the theme of the essays is close to my heart, then I willingly try the book. This book contains fourteen essays celebrating the joys and challenges of their canine companions. Impossible to resist this concept as a dog lover!
The list of contributing authors reads like a who’s who of successful contemporary writers: Jodi Picoult, Isabel Allende, Emily Henry, Amy Tan, Nick Trout, Roxane Gay, Bonnie Garmus, and many more. To top it all, this collection has been edited by none other than Alice Hoffman. We are practically guaranteed quality writing!
The blurb states that these contributions "captures the full range of the canine-human connection, from the joy of welcoming a new puppy to the heartache of saying goodbye to a beloved friend." This line captures the essence of the book perfectly. Each essay focuses on dogs, but the experience isn't always the same. Some focus on the challenges of training a puppy, some highlight the difficulties of earning trust from a rescue dog, some ponder over whether they actually are ‘dog people’, and some mull over the grief of losing a beloved pet. Many essays are bittersweet, containing both happy and sad memories in equal measure. But despite some obvious grief, the dominant tone in the book is that of joy and love.
With fourteen contributing authors, plus the editor’s foreword focusing on her own dogs, we get fifteen honest and mostly touching write-ups celebrating the authors’ bond with dogs. Obviously, all the essays aren't at the same level of quality, but all are about dogs and all are heartfelt. Most of the writeups are from pet parents, but one essay that stands apart in this regard is by author Nick Trout, penning his experience as a veterinary surgeon with a brave dog named Maverick.
I usually rate each story/writeup in anthologies and collections and then average my ratings. But there’s no way I can rate these essays individually when there is so much sincerity and warmth in them. I do want to mention some special favourites:
Most of the other essays also ranged from good to great. The only disappointing entry was the essay by Amy Tan, as she spoke of her Yorkshire Terrier and his top-ranking performance as a show dog and later a quality sire. I'm not a fan of such shows, but more than that, I didn't like the tone of the essay. It seemed to come entirely from a position of pride in his success rather than from the close personal bond she might have had with him.
Each essay is preceded by a little B&W illustration of the exact dog breed owned by that specific author. While I liked this idea, I wish the book had contained actual photos of the authors with their beloved pets. It would have been so great to picture the exact dog we come to love from the writeup.
(Editing to Add: The B&W illustrations of the dogs at the start of each chapter aren’t just a breed mockup but artist renditions sketched from the photos of the actual dog mentioned in each chapter. How fascinating to know this! Thanks to Colby, Maverick's mom, for letting me know in the comments!)
You know how people get baby fever from looking at baby photos and videos? Well, this book will create doggie fever! In these days when the world is going crazy, such books help remind us of the goodness still around in humans and their canine family members.
I’ll wind up by saying: For the love of Dog, get this book!
4.25 stars.
My thanks to Scribner for providing the DRC of “The Best Dog in the World” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
At times, the cover of a book is such that you are tempted to grab it without doing any other due diligence. Look at the cover art of this book! Just see that unbridled bliss on that beautiful dog’s visage! Add to this, that amazing title! How is one to resist?!
Thankfully, the book delivers exactly as the cover and the title promise, not making me regret my impulsive decision for even a second.
I don’t often read essay collections, but if the theme of the essays is close to my heart, then I willingly try the book. This book contains fourteen essays celebrating the joys and challenges of their canine companions. Impossible to resist this concept as a dog lover!
The list of contributing authors reads like a who’s who of successful contemporary writers: Jodi Picoult, Isabel Allende, Emily Henry, Amy Tan, Nick Trout, Roxane Gay, Bonnie Garmus, and many more. To top it all, this collection has been edited by none other than Alice Hoffman. We are practically guaranteed quality writing!
The blurb states that these contributions "captures the full range of the canine-human connection, from the joy of welcoming a new puppy to the heartache of saying goodbye to a beloved friend." This line captures the essence of the book perfectly. Each essay focuses on dogs, but the experience isn't always the same. Some focus on the challenges of training a puppy, some highlight the difficulties of earning trust from a rescue dog, some ponder over whether they actually are ‘dog people’, and some mull over the grief of losing a beloved pet. Many essays are bittersweet, containing both happy and sad memories in equal measure. But despite some obvious grief, the dominant tone in the book is that of joy and love.
With fourteen contributing authors, plus the editor’s foreword focusing on her own dogs, we get fifteen honest and mostly touching write-ups celebrating the authors’ bond with dogs. Obviously, all the essays aren't at the same level of quality, but all are about dogs and all are heartfelt. Most of the writeups are from pet parents, but one essay that stands apart in this regard is by author Nick Trout, penning his experience as a veterinary surgeon with a brave dog named Maverick.
I usually rate each story/writeup in anthologies and collections and then average my ratings. But there’s no way I can rate these essays individually when there is so much sincerity and warmth in them. I do want to mention some special favourites:
🐶 The essay that made me cry: Emily Henry and her ‘Dottie’.
🐶 The essay that made me chortle and sniffle in equal measure: Bonnie Garmus and her ‘99’.
🐶 The essay that highlighted how the same rearing can still produce different dogs: Jodi Picoult and her ‘Alvin‘.
🐶 The essay that showed the contradiction of being a non-dog-person and still wanting canine affection: Roxane Gay and her ‘Max’.
🐶 The essay that demonstrated the efforts it takes in becoming a true pet parent: Ann Leary and her ‘Eddie’.
🐶 The essay that proved how a new and reluctant pet parent can also be won over by a loyal dog: Paul Yoon and his ‘Oscar’.
Most of the other essays also ranged from good to great. The only disappointing entry was the essay by Amy Tan, as she spoke of her Yorkshire Terrier and his top-ranking performance as a show dog and later a quality sire. I'm not a fan of such shows, but more than that, I didn't like the tone of the essay. It seemed to come entirely from a position of pride in his success rather than from the close personal bond she might have had with him.
Each essay is preceded by a little B&W illustration of the exact dog breed owned by that specific author. While I liked this idea, I wish the book had contained actual photos of the authors with their beloved pets. It would have been so great to picture the exact dog we come to love from the writeup.
(Editing to Add: The B&W illustrations of the dogs at the start of each chapter aren’t just a breed mockup but artist renditions sketched from the photos of the actual dog mentioned in each chapter. How fascinating to know this! Thanks to Colby, Maverick's mom, for letting me know in the comments!)
You know how people get baby fever from looking at baby photos and videos? Well, this book will create doggie fever! In these days when the world is going crazy, such books help remind us of the goodness still around in humans and their canine family members.
I’ll wind up by saying: For the love of Dog, get this book!
4.25 stars.
My thanks to Scribner for providing the DRC of “The Best Dog in the World” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
March 15, 2026
˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆ Omg, when I tell you that I was crying as I read this book, I mean that I was CRYING! 😭😭
This was so sweet yet heartbreaking because sometimes in the essay, as Emily Henry stated in hers, the dog dies in the end. Reading all the essays made me miss my four-legged best friend, whom I lost several years ago. Her name was Lady, and I will share with you how she was the best dog in the world to me.
I was a toddler when my mom brought her home, so we literally grew up together. She was my playmate, a shoulder to cry on, and my confidant when I couldn’t trust anyone else with my secrets, hopes, dreams, and fears about the future. She absolutely loved rubber duckies and cared for them as if they were her children. She also loved to tear up newspapers, and even though there was a huge mess on the carpet, it was so funny watching her rip the paper to shreds, seeing the glee on her face. And she adored the snow! Even in her old age, she ran around the yard like a puppy and caught snowballs, showering herself in snowflakes. God, I miss her so much. I still sob when I think back to the morning when I told her she didn’t have to hold on anymore if she was in any pain, since she was sick, and getting weaker and weaker. I knew she wanted to make sure that we would be okay without her–I could see it in her eyes–because, like her rubber duckies, we were her babies. The next day, she died in my arms.
Even though it hurt to read about the dogs that impacted each author’s life, I’m glad I read the book because it reminded me of Lady and how I learned to love again after that painful time in my life. Now, we have a mischievous Great Pyrenees, and I thank God every day for her. You get to hear stories about their furry loves from Jodi Picoult, Elizabeth Strout, Emily Henry, Chris Bohjalian, and so many other writers, including an introduction and an afterword from Alice Hoffman, who also edited the book. The love was evident in each essay, and although I enjoyed some more than others, it was still a great read and one I will definitely remember and recommend. 💛
✾ Thank you to Scribner and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own. The book is now available! ✾
This was so sweet yet heartbreaking because sometimes in the essay, as Emily Henry stated in hers, the dog dies in the end. Reading all the essays made me miss my four-legged best friend, whom I lost several years ago. Her name was Lady, and I will share with you how she was the best dog in the world to me.
I was a toddler when my mom brought her home, so we literally grew up together. She was my playmate, a shoulder to cry on, and my confidant when I couldn’t trust anyone else with my secrets, hopes, dreams, and fears about the future. She absolutely loved rubber duckies and cared for them as if they were her children. She also loved to tear up newspapers, and even though there was a huge mess on the carpet, it was so funny watching her rip the paper to shreds, seeing the glee on her face. And she adored the snow! Even in her old age, she ran around the yard like a puppy and caught snowballs, showering herself in snowflakes. God, I miss her so much. I still sob when I think back to the morning when I told her she didn’t have to hold on anymore if she was in any pain, since she was sick, and getting weaker and weaker. I knew she wanted to make sure that we would be okay without her–I could see it in her eyes–because, like her rubber duckies, we were her babies. The next day, she died in my arms.
Even though it hurt to read about the dogs that impacted each author’s life, I’m glad I read the book because it reminded me of Lady and how I learned to love again after that painful time in my life. Now, we have a mischievous Great Pyrenees, and I thank God every day for her. You get to hear stories about their furry loves from Jodi Picoult, Elizabeth Strout, Emily Henry, Chris Bohjalian, and so many other writers, including an introduction and an afterword from Alice Hoffman, who also edited the book. The love was evident in each essay, and although I enjoyed some more than others, it was still a great read and one I will definitely remember and recommend. 💛
✾ Thank you to Scribner and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own. The book is now available! ✾
Want to Read
May 28, 2026 🐾❤️🐶ྀིReading this with my fur baby and a few boxes of tissues🐾❤️🐶ྀི !!!!!!!
March 31, 2026
I decided to take a break in reading about murder and mayhem to read about my one true love: Dogs!
(Please do not tell my husband or son 😉)
I'm kidding, they already know I live and breathe for my sweet rescued whippet mix, Bree.
Reading these stories filled my heart with love and my eyes with tears. I love hearing about how much others love their dogs as much as I do mine. Like we're a little club of people that have life figured out with our dogs standing proudly by our side.
(I most definitely don't have life figured out but my dog thinks I do and that's all that matters!)
This book isn't just for dog lovers. It's for animal lovers. Be it cats, goats, birds. Whatever furry or feathered friend that you bring into your family and keeps the heartbeat of your home thumping. You'll all appreciate this. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Scribner for my complimentary copy.
(Please do not tell my husband or son 😉)
I'm kidding, they already know I live and breathe for my sweet rescued whippet mix, Bree.
Reading these stories filled my heart with love and my eyes with tears. I love hearing about how much others love their dogs as much as I do mine. Like we're a little club of people that have life figured out with our dogs standing proudly by our side.
(I most definitely don't have life figured out but my dog thinks I do and that's all that matters!)
This book isn't just for dog lovers. It's for animal lovers. Be it cats, goats, birds. Whatever furry or feathered friend that you bring into your family and keeps the heartbeat of your home thumping. You'll all appreciate this. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Scribner for my complimentary copy.
March 10, 2026
Happy publication day!!
How many tears will you cry while reading this book? Let's just say keep your tissues handy and your pet close by to help you through some of these beautiful stories.
I never want to talk to people that don't believe that animals are the best things on this planet... and as a dog-lover, this book hit the right spots. What I loved was the variety of breeds, backstories, and takes on each dog. They are all love stories, but not all of them started that way.
What I think most people will also enjoy is an introduction to these different authors. You get a good feel for someone by listening about the dog/dogs that shaped them the most.
I cannot wait to gift this to my dog-lover friends. I only wish it came out before the holidays so I could spread the love that much quicker.
Many thanks, treats, and pats on the head to NetGalley, Scribner, and all of the authors for an advanced e-copy of this book. PLEASE check this out when it hits shelves on March 10, 2026!
_____________
Gonna buddy read this with my dog. 🐶 🐾
How many tears will you cry while reading this book? Let's just say keep your tissues handy and your pet close by to help you through some of these beautiful stories.
I never want to talk to people that don't believe that animals are the best things on this planet... and as a dog-lover, this book hit the right spots. What I loved was the variety of breeds, backstories, and takes on each dog. They are all love stories, but not all of them started that way.
What I think most people will also enjoy is an introduction to these different authors. You get a good feel for someone by listening about the dog/dogs that shaped them the most.
I cannot wait to gift this to my dog-lover friends. I only wish it came out before the holidays so I could spread the love that much quicker.
Many thanks, treats, and pats on the head to NetGalley, Scribner, and all of the authors for an advanced e-copy of this book. PLEASE check this out when it hits shelves on March 10, 2026!
_____________
Gonna buddy read this with my dog. 🐶 🐾
March 13, 2026
the setup…
Alice Hoffman has assembled a collection of stories by fourteen wonderful writers who are kind enough to share their dog companion experiences and celebrate their lives at the same time. Each story bears the name of their beloved pooch. The contributors: Isabel Allende, Chris Bohjalian, Bonnie Garmus, Roxane Gay, Emily Henry, Ann Leary, Tova Mirvis, Jodi Picoult, Elizabeth Strout, Amy Tan, Adriana Trigiani, Nick Trout, Paul Yoon, and Laura Zigman.
the heart of the story…
I grew up around dogs and am a sucker for all breeds. I greedily grabbed this book at first sight, knowing I’d be among fellow canine lovers and would have a shared experience. Their stories run the gamut and I was prepared for those involving heartbreaking goodbyes, knowing I’d have to relive my own. But there’s something cathartic in that process and it wasn’t a painful experience in the least. I was among friends and felt like they were personally sharing their stories…directly to me.
the narration…
Karen Gundersen & Mike Meyers certainly did these stories justice. They sounded like these were their own stories, making me forget they weren’t the authors. They delivered the most loveliest performances.
the bottom line…
If you’re a dog person, you’ll want this collection of stories that will feel like a warm hug. Each is a celebration of the unique love and loyalty between humans and their canine companions. I know I’ll listen to this again…and again.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio and Libro.fm for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Alice Hoffman has assembled a collection of stories by fourteen wonderful writers who are kind enough to share their dog companion experiences and celebrate their lives at the same time. Each story bears the name of their beloved pooch. The contributors: Isabel Allende, Chris Bohjalian, Bonnie Garmus, Roxane Gay, Emily Henry, Ann Leary, Tova Mirvis, Jodi Picoult, Elizabeth Strout, Amy Tan, Adriana Trigiani, Nick Trout, Paul Yoon, and Laura Zigman.
the heart of the story…
I grew up around dogs and am a sucker for all breeds. I greedily grabbed this book at first sight, knowing I’d be among fellow canine lovers and would have a shared experience. Their stories run the gamut and I was prepared for those involving heartbreaking goodbyes, knowing I’d have to relive my own. But there’s something cathartic in that process and it wasn’t a painful experience in the least. I was among friends and felt like they were personally sharing their stories…directly to me.
the narration…
Karen Gundersen & Mike Meyers certainly did these stories justice. They sounded like these were their own stories, making me forget they weren’t the authors. They delivered the most loveliest performances.
the bottom line…
If you’re a dog person, you’ll want this collection of stories that will feel like a warm hug. Each is a celebration of the unique love and loyalty between humans and their canine companions. I know I’ll listen to this again…and again.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio and Libro.fm for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
April 28, 2026
If you love dogs you will read and understand all these stories, maybe shed a few tears, and nod in acknowledgement at every one. If you don't love dogs you won't read it anyway.
My own personal anecdote: Two of my husband's cousins visited us a couple of years ago. I knew and loved both of them from spending time at the beach with them, both of them funny and caring women. But since beach house rentals don't allow dogs, it was never an issue that was even discussed. Visiting at our home was different; we have a dog that is part of our family. I never knew til they visited that one sister was uncomfortable around dogs, the other could tolerate them but didn't want one of her own. So our poor dog was relegated to the back yard and snuck into our bedroom at night.
My reaction was shock at first that such nice people didn't like dogs, then pity for both of them that they had never allowed themselves to love or be loved by a dog. I can't even imagine the emptiness of that.
My own personal anecdote: Two of my husband's cousins visited us a couple of years ago. I knew and loved both of them from spending time at the beach with them, both of them funny and caring women. But since beach house rentals don't allow dogs, it was never an issue that was even discussed. Visiting at our home was different; we have a dog that is part of our family. I never knew til they visited that one sister was uncomfortable around dogs, the other could tolerate them but didn't want one of her own. So our poor dog was relegated to the back yard and snuck into our bedroom at night.
My reaction was shock at first that such nice people didn't like dogs, then pity for both of them that they had never allowed themselves to love or be loved by a dog. I can't even imagine the emptiness of that.
July 4, 2026
4.5 stars
Written by 14 authors who are also dog-lovers and dog-owners, this collection of essays warmed my heart! I read this in pretty much one sitting because I couldn’t get enough of these sweet canine creatures and all the different ways they teach us about love and affection, empathy and joy, and everything else in between. I may not be a pet-owner myself (not because I don’t want to, but because there are too many people in my family who are allergic in some way), but that doesn’t mean I couldn’t relate to this collection, as I do have a soft spot for dogs and have plenty of friends and neighbors whose dogs I’ve happily played with and smothered with love and affection. With that said though, I can’t help but be envious of those same friends and neighbors who are on the receiving end of their canine companions’ unfettered love and adoration day in and day out, so reading a book like this one definitely helps to satiate that envy (LOL).
I definitely recommend picking up this essay collection, especially if you are a dog-owner. If you’re not a dog-owner (and perhaps not a dog-lover either), I still suggest picking this one up—who knows, you might be won over by these delightful reflections on life accompanied by the most loyal and devoted of pets.
Written by 14 authors who are also dog-lovers and dog-owners, this collection of essays warmed my heart! I read this in pretty much one sitting because I couldn’t get enough of these sweet canine creatures and all the different ways they teach us about love and affection, empathy and joy, and everything else in between. I may not be a pet-owner myself (not because I don’t want to, but because there are too many people in my family who are allergic in some way), but that doesn’t mean I couldn’t relate to this collection, as I do have a soft spot for dogs and have plenty of friends and neighbors whose dogs I’ve happily played with and smothered with love and affection. With that said though, I can’t help but be envious of those same friends and neighbors who are on the receiving end of their canine companions’ unfettered love and adoration day in and day out, so reading a book like this one definitely helps to satiate that envy (LOL).
I definitely recommend picking up this essay collection, especially if you are a dog-owner. If you’re not a dog-owner (and perhaps not a dog-lover either), I still suggest picking this one up—who knows, you might be won over by these delightful reflections on life accompanied by the most loyal and devoted of pets.
June 13, 2026
This is a sometimes heartbreaking and always heartwarming book about the best dogs in the world (per the people who care for them). If you’re a dog lover it’s a must read and you’ll feel echoes of your own dog’s lives in every essay.
Dogs are the best.
Dogs are the best.
December 16, 2025
If you, like me, have ever loved a dog before, then this book is for you. It’s heartbreaking and heartwarming. You will sob one chapter and laugh out loud the next. You will feel so deeply the joy, the grief, and the purest love that these fourteen authors share with us. Nothing compares to the bond we share with our dogs. They are our soulmates. And it is such a gift to experience and share that unconditional love and loyalty.
Thank you Alice Hoffman for putting together this wonderful little book. I know I will be gifting it (with a box of tissues) to all of my friends with dogs.
Thank you to NetGalley and Scribner for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you Alice Hoffman for putting together this wonderful little book. I know I will be gifting it (with a box of tissues) to all of my friends with dogs.
Thank you to NetGalley and Scribner for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2026
First, there was Molly. She came into our lives ten years ago as a rambunctious little ball of fluff and grew up alongside my sons. She had the most expressive eyes and the sweetest nature, and I firmly believe she could understand every single word I said to her. I wasn’t ready to lose her, but I never would have been, no matter how long she’d lived. She was my soul dog, my best friend, and if you’ve ever been blessed with a love like that, you’ll believe me when I tell you I’ll never recover from losing her.
But now, there is Griffin. He, too, is a rambunctious little ball of fluff, ten weeks old. I’d forgotten how much work it is to have a puppy - the constant vigilance and patience that are required, the strain on your time. But I’d also forgotten how pure and sweet it is to fall in love with a puppy, and to watch him falling in love with you too. How it feels to notice that a part of your heart is actively healing. Building a relationship with him is so beautiful, and I miss him, his puppy breath, and his soft, squirmy body every second I can’t be with him.
So I came to my reading of The Best Dog in the World from this perspective: having said goodbye to a once-in-a-lifetime dog last year, and welcoming a new little sweetheart into our home last month. And honestly, these essays felt like therapy. It was like being with a group of people who just…get it. These authors love their dogs just as much as I love mine, and it felt so affirming and joyful to read about their experiences with their furry friends. I was moved to laughter and tears, often both at once.
Every dog is the best dog in the world, but the secret these authors have figured out, and that all dog parents know, is that our dog is really the best - because they’re ours.
But now, there is Griffin. He, too, is a rambunctious little ball of fluff, ten weeks old. I’d forgotten how much work it is to have a puppy - the constant vigilance and patience that are required, the strain on your time. But I’d also forgotten how pure and sweet it is to fall in love with a puppy, and to watch him falling in love with you too. How it feels to notice that a part of your heart is actively healing. Building a relationship with him is so beautiful, and I miss him, his puppy breath, and his soft, squirmy body every second I can’t be with him.
So I came to my reading of The Best Dog in the World from this perspective: having said goodbye to a once-in-a-lifetime dog last year, and welcoming a new little sweetheart into our home last month. And honestly, these essays felt like therapy. It was like being with a group of people who just…get it. These authors love their dogs just as much as I love mine, and it felt so affirming and joyful to read about their experiences with their furry friends. I was moved to laughter and tears, often both at once.
Every dog is the best dog in the world, but the secret these authors have figured out, and that all dog parents know, is that our dog is really the best - because they’re ours.
April 9, 2026
"The Best Dog in the World" is a collection of essays written by well-known authors about their own dogs. The collection is edited by author Alice Hoffman. The contributors' list includes some of my favorite authors. As someone who loves dogs myself, I could write an essay too, but not like they can.
Here are some of the stories that I hope will stay with me:
* Bonnie Garmus - named her dog "Ninety-Nine" after the agent that Barbara Feldman played in "Get Smart." (The dog's original name was "Cake Angel.") Garmus has a delightful sense of humor which she used to talk about the rescue greyhound that she and her husband adopted. The dog had raced for four years (the maximum allowed) and would have been euthanized if not adopted. There was so much that the dog had no experience of and so much that Garmus had to learn about her. For example, the dog had never been in a car before, lived with humans, and had never climbed steps. All of these posed big hurdles not easily dealt with. The dog rejected all affectionate gestures and was aloof with them until... one day, Garmus received bad news and looked visibly upset. Ninety-Nine came over to Garmus and leaned her big body against her. The dog wanted to comfort her. This began a whole new chapter in their relationship.
* Chris Bohjalian - adopted a pitt-bull mix named Jesse. He had not grown up with dogs, but his wife wanted a dog badly. He honestly didn't know if he would like living with a dog. Of course, the dog stole his heart. Jesse sounded a lot like my son's pit-bull mix: strong, gentle and well-mannered. Like Jesse, my son's dog seldom barks either.
* Amy Tan - is often pictured with her Yorkshire terriers. What I learned is that she also had half ownership in a Yorkie specially bred for dog shows, "Frankie." Frankie lived with the other owner who was his handler at the shows. Tan went to every dog show with them. Frankie retired as a show dog at age three after winning at the prestigious Westminster dog show.
In sum, fifteen authors wrote personal essays for the book and all are gems.
Here are some of the stories that I hope will stay with me:
* Bonnie Garmus - named her dog "Ninety-Nine" after the agent that Barbara Feldman played in "Get Smart." (The dog's original name was "Cake Angel.") Garmus has a delightful sense of humor which she used to talk about the rescue greyhound that she and her husband adopted. The dog had raced for four years (the maximum allowed) and would have been euthanized if not adopted. There was so much that the dog had no experience of and so much that Garmus had to learn about her. For example, the dog had never been in a car before, lived with humans, and had never climbed steps. All of these posed big hurdles not easily dealt with. The dog rejected all affectionate gestures and was aloof with them until... one day, Garmus received bad news and looked visibly upset. Ninety-Nine came over to Garmus and leaned her big body against her. The dog wanted to comfort her. This began a whole new chapter in their relationship.
* Chris Bohjalian - adopted a pitt-bull mix named Jesse. He had not grown up with dogs, but his wife wanted a dog badly. He honestly didn't know if he would like living with a dog. Of course, the dog stole his heart. Jesse sounded a lot like my son's pit-bull mix: strong, gentle and well-mannered. Like Jesse, my son's dog seldom barks either.
* Amy Tan - is often pictured with her Yorkshire terriers. What I learned is that she also had half ownership in a Yorkie specially bred for dog shows, "Frankie." Frankie lived with the other owner who was his handler at the shows. Tan went to every dog show with them. Frankie retired as a show dog at age three after winning at the prestigious Westminster dog show.
In sum, fifteen authors wrote personal essays for the book and all are gems.
January 1, 2026
This was the last book I finished in 2025, a year that was a tough one, a year that I wouldn’t have gotten through if it weren’t for my parents, my sister, and of course my dog. This compilation of stories helped me with the gratitude I feel for my Black Lab and his love which was imperative to me getting through this one.
The magic of dogs is that I believe that all the dogs in this book, and my Lab Sebastian are all the best dog in the world, even the dogs that aren’t really “good”, including Jodi’s Picoult’s Alvin who prompted her to write: “The truth is that we love our dogs not just for who they are, but sometimes in spite of it.” This compilation isn’t a competition of what dog is best, but it is love letters to why these dogs impacted the author’s lives
These relatable stories had me in laughter and tears as I got to hear about different memories these authors have with their lovable companions. We hear from dedicated dog lovers who already knew the power of a 4-legged companion, to first time dog owners who weren’t yet aware of what they were getting themselves into. Unfortunately, some of the dogs die, we know that the rest will eventually, but we know that’s okay because these stories are focused on the reminder of the good moments. Amy Tan writes: “We discovered eventually that Frankie was not entirely perfect. A perfect dog would never grow old and die. He would forever be a puppy.” And Emily Henry echoes that: “The thing this depressing essay has in common with all of my romantic comedies and everything else I’ve ever written: We are so fucking lucky to get to love someone so much that it tears a hole in the world when they’re gone. The dog dies at the end. The dog dies at the end and it breaks your heart, and you wouldn’t change anything. Not one moment.”
It was Nick Trout’s story about Maverick, a dog he treated as a vet that struck me on the eve of the New Year as I reflected on surviving a tough year with the help my most loyal companion as he wrote, “Sometimes their acceptance and lack of judgment feels like the biggest lesson of all: If you give your best, it’s okay to be flawed.”
The Best Dog in the World is a fantastic read for dog lovers especially, but for anyone. There is sadness yes, but without that sadness we wouldn’t get the joy of our most beloved loyal companions.
The magic of dogs is that I believe that all the dogs in this book, and my Lab Sebastian are all the best dog in the world, even the dogs that aren’t really “good”, including Jodi’s Picoult’s Alvin who prompted her to write: “The truth is that we love our dogs not just for who they are, but sometimes in spite of it.” This compilation isn’t a competition of what dog is best, but it is love letters to why these dogs impacted the author’s lives
These relatable stories had me in laughter and tears as I got to hear about different memories these authors have with their lovable companions. We hear from dedicated dog lovers who already knew the power of a 4-legged companion, to first time dog owners who weren’t yet aware of what they were getting themselves into. Unfortunately, some of the dogs die, we know that the rest will eventually, but we know that’s okay because these stories are focused on the reminder of the good moments. Amy Tan writes: “We discovered eventually that Frankie was not entirely perfect. A perfect dog would never grow old and die. He would forever be a puppy.” And Emily Henry echoes that: “The thing this depressing essay has in common with all of my romantic comedies and everything else I’ve ever written: We are so fucking lucky to get to love someone so much that it tears a hole in the world when they’re gone. The dog dies at the end. The dog dies at the end and it breaks your heart, and you wouldn’t change anything. Not one moment.”
It was Nick Trout’s story about Maverick, a dog he treated as a vet that struck me on the eve of the New Year as I reflected on surviving a tough year with the help my most loyal companion as he wrote, “Sometimes their acceptance and lack of judgment feels like the biggest lesson of all: If you give your best, it’s okay to be flawed.”
The Best Dog in the World is a fantastic read for dog lovers especially, but for anyone. There is sadness yes, but without that sadness we wouldn’t get the joy of our most beloved loyal companions.
November 22, 2025
A wonderful collection full of heart and tears. Had to read with a Kleenex box by my side. If ever you have loved a dog, this book is for you!
April 7, 2026
4 🐾🐾 [all of the best dogs in the world, mine included, get 5 🦴🦴🦴🦴🦴]
Very nice article & review about the contents:
https://pamelakramer.com/2026/03/14/t...
Very nice article & review about the contents:
https://pamelakramer.com/2026/03/14/t...
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March 12, 2026This actually ended up being a DNF, not because it was “bad,” but because it was an emotional roller coaster. Imagine reading ol’ yeller or marley&me over and over, every chapter. I am so emotionally attached to my dogs (all animals, in general) my heart just couldn’t take it.
March 26, 2026
omg if you’ve ever known the love of a dog, read this now
July 10, 2026
Once upon a time, I never thought of myself as a dog person. After some “eventful” encounters when I was a child, I was pretty terrified of dogs, actually. Then in 1999, my youngest, who was desperate for a dog convinced us we needed to get one. Well, I’ve never looked back. It was love at first sight. He was an anxious dog, whom we all fell in love with. Turns out I became a true dog person. To be honest, most people who own a dog will probably say they prefer a dog to people. Dogs are the absolute best!
This book is comprised of essays by authors singing the praises of their dogs. One thing they all have in common- total unadulterated love for their dogs. Of course, we all think our dog is the best.
Any dog lover will love this book, but be forewarned, dogs don’t live forever, so you may be shedding some tears.
Published: 2026
This book is comprised of essays by authors singing the praises of their dogs. One thing they all have in common- total unadulterated love for their dogs. Of course, we all think our dog is the best.
Any dog lover will love this book, but be forewarned, dogs don’t live forever, so you may be shedding some tears.
Published: 2026
July 7, 2026
The ratings of all 14 individual essays equated to 3.85 stars, but rounding up because I fully love and support books about the magic and wonder of dogs.
This collection of essays showcased many dogs, their personalities, backstories, impacts on their owners and families, and how they embody love itself. Owning a dog is proof that our hearts know love is worth the pain. Because you know one day you'll have to let them go, and when you ask yourself "Is it worth it?" the answer is a resounding yes. You'll take the heartache to know you loved and were loved by them.
The collection of diverse authors that were included in the book was a nice element as well. From immigrant perspectives, younger, middle aged, and older perspectives, men, women, extreme dog lovers, and those who only ever loved one special dog. From veterinarians to show dog owners to elderly rescues, it was great to read through these vast experiences.
Some essays were stronger at illustrating the intended theme than others. A couple of essays seemed to miss the mark, with the dogs acting more as background characters than the main object of the story and sentiment. Others were very strong, well written, tear-jerking, and wholesome. Fourteen essays felt like the perfect number, with a good mix of length and variety.
On the whole, this book was delightful, touching, and worth the read. I hugged my own fluffy boy a little tighter after every section that I read.
This collection of essays showcased many dogs, their personalities, backstories, impacts on their owners and families, and how they embody love itself. Owning a dog is proof that our hearts know love is worth the pain. Because you know one day you'll have to let them go, and when you ask yourself "Is it worth it?" the answer is a resounding yes. You'll take the heartache to know you loved and were loved by them.
The collection of diverse authors that were included in the book was a nice element as well. From immigrant perspectives, younger, middle aged, and older perspectives, men, women, extreme dog lovers, and those who only ever loved one special dog. From veterinarians to show dog owners to elderly rescues, it was great to read through these vast experiences.
Some essays were stronger at illustrating the intended theme than others. A couple of essays seemed to miss the mark, with the dogs acting more as background characters than the main object of the story and sentiment. Others were very strong, well written, tear-jerking, and wholesome. Fourteen essays felt like the perfect number, with a good mix of length and variety.
On the whole, this book was delightful, touching, and worth the read. I hugged my own fluffy boy a little tighter after every section that I read.
March 23, 2026
Very nice collection of essays about the love of dogs. I started reading this in the morning and within the first bit, I was crying!! But each is different and not all were like that.
I just lost my 16 year old dog, Shen, a few months ago and still miss her everyday. The hole they fill is so hard to live without--the fact that they love us unconditionally and are always happy to see us.
Highly recommend this wonderful book!!
I just lost my 16 year old dog, Shen, a few months ago and still miss her everyday. The hole they fill is so hard to live without--the fact that they love us unconditionally and are always happy to see us.
Highly recommend this wonderful book!!
January 24, 2026
selfishly (and stupidly) i only wanted to read this because i knew if anyone could put my jumbled mess of a brain’s grieving thoughts into words it was emily henry. she did, as always.
this was a brutal read for me… but it was also really touching and comforting. i loved so many of the essays in here. i laughed, i cried, i thought about my zoey the whole time, i saw her in so many of the other dogs in this collection and i saw myself in so many of the humans writing about them. we are so lucky to have dogs in this world <3 i only wish they got to live forever :(
this was a brutal read for me… but it was also really touching and comforting. i loved so many of the essays in here. i laughed, i cried, i thought about my zoey the whole time, i saw her in so many of the other dogs in this collection and i saw myself in so many of the humans writing about them. we are so lucky to have dogs in this world <3 i only wish they got to live forever :(
July 9, 2026
The perfect book for all dog lovers!
July 9, 2026
As you might expect a number of these essays will bring tears to your eyes. Dogs are a blessing in our life and remembering a beloved dog is a blessing too.
December 15, 2025
the love of a dog is something truly unconditional. if you have the privilege of ever knowing it, you’ll find it’s the kind that it settles deep in your bones and gives you rich stories to tell. the honesty and vulnerability captured in this collection of essays acts as kindling for own memories, allowing it to deeply resonate. in this format of sharing love, both new and old, and grief for our beloved companions, we also have the privilege of connecting with and discovering new authors and storytellers. with my experience, i find that these essays are best read with a box of tissues, an open heart, and a dog by your side.
thank you so much to netgalley and scribner for this arc!
thank you so much to netgalley and scribner for this arc!
June 27, 2026
3.5 stars
Several writers provided essays for this collection about their relationship with a furry kid. Mostly pretty much what you’d expect—huge love, help with getting through some tough times, massive grief at their dog’s passing—with a few amusing and/or interesting exceptions.
Several writers provided essays for this collection about their relationship with a furry kid. Mostly pretty much what you’d expect—huge love, help with getting through some tough times, massive grief at their dog’s passing—with a few amusing and/or interesting exceptions.
April 10, 2026
Many tears, no regrets. This book of essays is a love letter to the biggest gut punch relationship. A relationship most of us wouldn't trade for anything in the world... Like I said, many tears, no regrets. I have never really known a home without a dog. The best decision we ever made was signing the adoption papers for Josie, Twinkie, and Norbert over the years. I found them constantly within these pages.
"In retrospect I think it was because Alvin was a cult leader just ripe for a devoted follower, and Harvey was too scared to make any decisions for himself." Jodi Picoult
"Maybe I am not a dog person, but I am this dog's person." - Roxanne Gay
"In retrospect I think it was because Alvin was a cult leader just ripe for a devoted follower, and Harvey was too scared to make any decisions for himself." Jodi Picoult
"Maybe I am not a dog person, but I am this dog's person." - Roxanne Gay
March 20, 2026
A perfect collection for dog lovers! I especially enjoyed Alice Hoffman, Adriana Trigiani and Chris Bohjalian’s contributions as they are all automatic read authors for me.
March 16, 2026
Ready for Part 2 already.
March 31, 2026
Most stories of course made me cry. I also in the best dog in the world discovered the phrase to the suffering I put myself through. Randomly I disturbingly tell my husband I was just thinking about Rocky (our dog) dying. My husband always says stop thinking that, why do you do that to yourself? I’ve always told him that I have to prepare for it so I think about it. Hoping it will ease the hurt when it happens. I was healed through this book discovering that I am not the only one that does this! I love Rocky so much that I fear the obvious inevitable. After reading this book and seeing the memories that so many have held onto it I’m striving to focus on Rocky in the moment and capture so much more.
I didn’t know that the term for it is- Anticipatory grief is the profound sadness, anxiety, and emotional pain experienced before an impending loss, such as a terminal diagnosis, dementia, or separation. It acts as a coping mechanism, allowing individuals to mentally prepare for the future, though it can feel like "losing someone in slow motion”
So many good quotes in this book! I recommend to dog lovers!!!
One of my favorite quotes: “It felt like the house and died around me, like she was the soul that animated it.”
The story that stuck out to me the most was the story of Eddie the cattle dog. How smart he was. I love watching my sister’s cattle dogs- they are too smart and so driven. My sister said she can’t read a book about dogs with her aging dog Lucy. I hope she at least reads Eddies story.
I didn’t know that the term for it is- Anticipatory grief is the profound sadness, anxiety, and emotional pain experienced before an impending loss, such as a terminal diagnosis, dementia, or separation. It acts as a coping mechanism, allowing individuals to mentally prepare for the future, though it can feel like "losing someone in slow motion”
So many good quotes in this book! I recommend to dog lovers!!!
One of my favorite quotes: “It felt like the house and died around me, like she was the soul that animated it.”
The story that stuck out to me the most was the story of Eddie the cattle dog. How smart he was. I love watching my sister’s cattle dogs- they are too smart and so driven. My sister said she can’t read a book about dogs with her aging dog Lucy. I hope she at least reads Eddies story.
July 12, 2026
Eddie 💗
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