What do you think?
Good Boy
Every dog—and every human—deserves a second chance.
It's September 1997 and Cookie, an inmate in a minimum-security prison, is serving the last six months of his sentence when he signs up for a last-chance rehabilitation program for abandoned dogs.
He's assigned Nigel—whom he renames Good Boy—an anxious soul with a talent for gnawing his way through walls. Cookie has his work cut out preparing him for the upcoming behavioural assessment that will decide his pass, and Good Boy will be up for adoption and the chance of finding a loving home for the first time in his life; fail, and he will be put down. When Cookie realises that Good Boy is almost certain to flunk the test, he decides to escape in a bid to save him.
On the run, Cookie must evade detection until he can find someone to care for Good Boy. As their feet pick out new paths and their friendship deepens, the old bonds that shaped Cookie draw him back, revealing truths that leave him questioning his past and future.
Good Boy movingly explores the bonds between dogs and their humans, and how hope might move us beyond punishment and towards redemption.
'Good Boy is a deeply moving, tender portrayal of the powerful bond between one man and his dog. It's a story that's stayed with me long after the final pages. I loved it.' Mark Brandi, author of Wimmera and Eden
'A beautiful, heartbreaking story of connection, loss and redemption.' Mark Smith, author of Three Boys Gone
'In this deeply moving novel, a broken man finds the strength to protect another broken creature. Good Boy is a beautifully written paean to the power of trust and redemption.' Paddy O'Reilly, author of Other Houses
It's September 1997 and Cookie, an inmate in a minimum-security prison, is serving the last six months of his sentence when he signs up for a last-chance rehabilitation program for abandoned dogs.
He's assigned Nigel—whom he renames Good Boy—an anxious soul with a talent for gnawing his way through walls. Cookie has his work cut out preparing him for the upcoming behavioural assessment that will decide his pass, and Good Boy will be up for adoption and the chance of finding a loving home for the first time in his life; fail, and he will be put down. When Cookie realises that Good Boy is almost certain to flunk the test, he decides to escape in a bid to save him.
On the run, Cookie must evade detection until he can find someone to care for Good Boy. As their feet pick out new paths and their friendship deepens, the old bonds that shaped Cookie draw him back, revealing truths that leave him questioning his past and future.
Good Boy movingly explores the bonds between dogs and their humans, and how hope might move us beyond punishment and towards redemption.
'Good Boy is a deeply moving, tender portrayal of the powerful bond between one man and his dog. It's a story that's stayed with me long after the final pages. I loved it.' Mark Brandi, author of Wimmera and Eden
'A beautiful, heartbreaking story of connection, loss and redemption.' Mark Smith, author of Three Boys Gone
'In this deeply moving novel, a broken man finds the strength to protect another broken creature. Good Boy is a beautifully written paean to the power of trust and redemption.' Paddy O'Reilly, author of Other Houses
Paperback
Published March 31, 2026
About the author
Michelle Wright
8 books113 followersMichelle Wright is an award-winning writer who brings to life a remarkable range of characters, winning many awards, including The Age short story competition.
Her collection of short stories, Fine, was shortlisted for the Victorian Premier's Literary Award for an Unpublished Manuscript and published in 2016.
Her first novel, Small Acts of Defiance, was published in Australia in 2021 . World rights were acquired by HarperCollins US who published it in the US and Canada in 2022.
Her second novel, Good Boy, will be out in April 2026. She is currently writing her third novel.
Her collection of short stories, Fine, was shortlisted for the Victorian Premier's Literary Award for an Unpublished Manuscript and published in 2016.
Her first novel, Small Acts of Defiance, was published in Australia in 2021 . World rights were acquired by HarperCollins US who published it in the US and Canada in 2022.
Her second novel, Good Boy, will be out in April 2026. She is currently writing her third novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
April 24, 2026
I always wanted to work in the justice system library, I was told it would be too hard. I recently applied for a job there, too. That also fell away. Then I travelled down the donation path, again too hard. I digress 🙈
I adore books that pull my heartstrings deeply to not only the story, but the inner souls, their heart, their inner fears. Converse to the heavy stuff there is much love here. Pointedly this love is not for a human, it’s a cumbuctious canine. The connection transcends the bonds that bind people. The are ones which do no evil, more precious than anything that’s come before a life long lived for the weary human protagonist.
I landed deeply inside the heart of Cookie, a gentle man with only a speck of time remaining on his prison sentence. This prison story is so much more though, it disguises the love between this man and his dog, Good Boy. The dog training program Cookie has joined isn’t looking good, which means the fate of Good Boy is much much more dangerous.
This book is no good for a quick jolt or a thrilling ride, it’s heavy, hard hitting and it will make you break and tear up. It is about a man that can’t change while floundering in a world that is not accepting. Yes he did the crime, almost at the end, with memories of the boy many moons ago who’d never lie, even to save himself.
I recommend this completely, just navigate with your heart firmly cared for and tissues nearby.
I adored them all, the good and the bad. The writing is understated, almost lyrical, the kind that lets the silence between the words carry Cookie’s world with the dog, never overworked, unfolding quietly so the things left unsaid hit tragically, lingering with an imagery that stays far longer than you’d expect. I was in that dazed state. That dreamy one where the mind flashes ‘this is a book, a set of pages, did that just happen to me?’
Thank you very much Michelle and A&U, I’d have loved to be at the launch
I adore books that pull my heartstrings deeply to not only the story, but the inner souls, their heart, their inner fears. Converse to the heavy stuff there is much love here. Pointedly this love is not for a human, it’s a cumbuctious canine. The connection transcends the bonds that bind people. The are ones which do no evil, more precious than anything that’s come before a life long lived for the weary human protagonist.
I landed deeply inside the heart of Cookie, a gentle man with only a speck of time remaining on his prison sentence. This prison story is so much more though, it disguises the love between this man and his dog, Good Boy. The dog training program Cookie has joined isn’t looking good, which means the fate of Good Boy is much much more dangerous.
This book is no good for a quick jolt or a thrilling ride, it’s heavy, hard hitting and it will make you break and tear up. It is about a man that can’t change while floundering in a world that is not accepting. Yes he did the crime, almost at the end, with memories of the boy many moons ago who’d never lie, even to save himself.
I recommend this completely, just navigate with your heart firmly cared for and tissues nearby.
I adored them all, the good and the bad. The writing is understated, almost lyrical, the kind that lets the silence between the words carry Cookie’s world with the dog, never overworked, unfolding quietly so the things left unsaid hit tragically, lingering with an imagery that stays far longer than you’d expect. I was in that dazed state. That dreamy one where the mind flashes ‘this is a book, a set of pages, did that just happen to me?’
Thank you very much Michelle and A&U, I’d have loved to be at the launch
June 29, 2026
I read this for a friend’s book club but, to be honest, ‘Good Boy’ is too far away from my comfort zone to assess objectively.
I spent far too much time dreading the outcome of Cookie’s actions and the emotional turn at the final fifty pages really isn’t believable. It’s a devastating read, but not in the way that I want it to be.
Sensitive souls beware.
I spent far too much time dreading the outcome of Cookie’s actions and the emotional turn at the final fifty pages really isn’t believable. It’s a devastating read, but not in the way that I want it to be.
Sensitive souls beware.
July 6, 2026
A deeply moving read that explores the power of connection.
'Some bonds can't be broken.'
I appreciate the variety of complex topics that are embedded into this story. The final chapters had me sobbing.
'Some bonds can't be broken.'
I appreciate the variety of complex topics that are embedded into this story. The final chapters had me sobbing.
April 16, 2026
Approaching the end of his long prison sentence, Cookie is invited to take part in a new initiative at the minimum security prison, that might even lead to employment once he is released. He is to learn dog training. Cookie will work one-on-one with a rescue dog, and attempt to get them ready for adoption. As soon as he meets the dog, Nigel, Cookie can already feel a sense of failure. Nigel is clearly suffering from anxiety. Even renaming him - to Good Boy, with all the expected encouragement that using the new name will entail - isn't enough to sort this poor dog out. The stakes are high, too, as the final behavioural assessment will either deliver Good Boy to a loving new home, or to the vet for euthanasia. Becoming increasingly worried about Good Boy's future, Cookie hatches a plan.
I admit I struggled to get into this one. I'd expected it to be a sure bet, being such a sucker for human/animal bond stories. Perhaps it was the prison setting that I found difficult? However once the story expanded, it jogged along at a good pace. Although the ending was somewhat predictable I was still moved by it.
With thanks to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for an eARC to read and review.
I admit I struggled to get into this one. I'd expected it to be a sure bet, being such a sucker for human/animal bond stories. Perhaps it was the prison setting that I found difficult? However once the story expanded, it jogged along at a good pace. Although the ending was somewhat predictable I was still moved by it.
With thanks to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for an eARC to read and review.
July 8, 2026
I absolutely loved Good Boy by Michelle Wright. The relationship that develops between Cookie and Good Boy is beautifully written, and watching their bond grow became the heart of the story for me.
There was a point about halfway through the book where I wasn’t quite sure where the story was heading, but I’m so glad I kept reading. The ending brought everything together in a way that felt honest, emotional and true to the characters.
What stayed with me most was the compassion woven throughout the novel. It encourages us to look beyond first impressions and consider the circumstances that shape people’s choices. Rather than seeing everything as simply right or wrong, it explores the complexities of life with empathy and understanding.
This book made me cry, and I was genuinely sad when I reached the final page. It’s a heartfelt, beautifully written story about redemption, hope and the unexpected connections that can change a life. If you love stories that leave a lasting emotional impact, I highly recommend this one.
There was a point about halfway through the book where I wasn’t quite sure where the story was heading, but I’m so glad I kept reading. The ending brought everything together in a way that felt honest, emotional and true to the characters.
What stayed with me most was the compassion woven throughout the novel. It encourages us to look beyond first impressions and consider the circumstances that shape people’s choices. Rather than seeing everything as simply right or wrong, it explores the complexities of life with empathy and understanding.
This book made me cry, and I was genuinely sad when I reached the final page. It’s a heartfelt, beautifully written story about redemption, hope and the unexpected connections that can change a life. If you love stories that leave a lasting emotional impact, I highly recommend this one.
January 30, 2026
ARC Read: NetGallery / Allen & Unwin
This was one of the saddest stories I’ve read this year definitely needed a box of tissues. You follow Cookie and Good Boy on the run because Cookie can’t bring himself to have Good Boy put down. Cookie escapes jail determined to find the best owner for Good Boy and along the way you look into Cookies past showing how he ended up in prison.
The flashbacks to his teenage years were heartbreaking especially the parts with Mrs. Mitten and Mr. Mitten taking him in when his useless con artist father couldn’t be bothered to care about him and his mum walking out on him when he was very young.
Everything comes together in the end in a way that was very emotional, heavy and sad.
This was one of the saddest stories I’ve read this year definitely needed a box of tissues. You follow Cookie and Good Boy on the run because Cookie can’t bring himself to have Good Boy put down. Cookie escapes jail determined to find the best owner for Good Boy and along the way you look into Cookies past showing how he ended up in prison.
The flashbacks to his teenage years were heartbreaking especially the parts with Mrs. Mitten and Mr. Mitten taking him in when his useless con artist father couldn’t be bothered to care about him and his mum walking out on him when he was very young.
Everything comes together in the end in a way that was very emotional, heavy and sad.
September 26, 2026
3.5★
When I see a dog on the cover of a book, I immediately want to read it, which is why I picked this book up. I enjoyed this book for the most part, but I didn’t love it as much as I thought I would.
I didn’t get that deep connection to the characters, and the plot didn’t hold my attention as I thought it would. I’m still glad I read it, and I’m sure many readers would love this one.
When I see a dog on the cover of a book, I immediately want to read it, which is why I picked this book up. I enjoyed this book for the most part, but I didn’t love it as much as I thought I would.
I didn’t get that deep connection to the characters, and the plot didn’t hold my attention as I thought it would. I’m still glad I read it, and I’m sure many readers would love this one.
December 9, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
There’s something so warm and disarming about this book — it honestly felt like sitting at the pub with an old friend, drink in hand, listening to them unravel the story of their life (in the best way). Wright’s writing is raw, honest, and quietly powerful, the kind that sneaks up on you with its emotional depth.
“Good Boy” captures the messiness of growing up, the weight of family history, and the small, tender moments that shape who we become. It’s conversational, intimate, and incredibly human — the kind of narrative that pulls you in without even trying.
If you love character-driven storytelling with heart, humour, and a dose of nostalgia, this one is absolutely worth picking up, I read it within 24 hours couldn’t put it down.
There’s something so warm and disarming about this book — it honestly felt like sitting at the pub with an old friend, drink in hand, listening to them unravel the story of their life (in the best way). Wright’s writing is raw, honest, and quietly powerful, the kind that sneaks up on you with its emotional depth.
“Good Boy” captures the messiness of growing up, the weight of family history, and the small, tender moments that shape who we become. It’s conversational, intimate, and incredibly human — the kind of narrative that pulls you in without even trying.
If you love character-driven storytelling with heart, humour, and a dose of nostalgia, this one is absolutely worth picking up, I read it within 24 hours couldn’t put it down.
May 30, 2026
It was coming up to my daughter’s birthday when I saw a review of this book. Being a canine lover since she was a young child I thought it would be an ideal gift. Subsequently, I saw it available as an audiobook. It was not part of my list of have to read books but I thought I would dive in so that later I could discuss it with her.
Others will retell the story of the book more than me. For me it was an interesting analogy between a man who had been treated badly from his youngest days and a dog who had had similar treatment. The two of the participate in a journey together. As the story progresses Cookie discloses more and more of his life, especially his younger years.
The story is set in 1997, August of that year and we know this because of the references to a tragic event at that time. Cookie has been in gaol for two decades, initially we are not told why. He volunteers to help with a dog training program. As the story unfolds the reader is taken back into Cookie’s childhood and told about his childhood, his uncomfortable life at primary school. His worthless criminal father. The story moves from the present back to Cookie’s childhood and back again. The seeds of who is today are shown in detail. All the time Good Boy is the ever-present reason for the things that he does and the people who he meets. However, because the story spends considerable time in the past Good Boy’s role diminishes.
This tale reminded me of that oh so true statement, ‘If you want to have a successful life, choose your parents carefully.’ I did think Cookie’s father was a one-dimensional character. Too static in nature, very stereotypical with zero redeeming features. Sadly, I thought Cookie had some of these characteristics but are at the other end of the spectrum in decency. Wright paints Cookie as too innocent as a young person. With the experience of a long teaching career, I would claim no child with the life experiences like Cookie’s turns out as untarnished as Cookie. The book becomes less and less a story about a dog, but rather about its owner. At times there are touches of melodrama.
I thought Wright handled the gaol context well. She has undoubtedly had experience with people incarcerated and their relationships with the guards and other prisoners. In gaol you don’t make friends you only make alliances.
Cookie has similar attributes to Jaxie Clackton in Tim Winton’s The Sheperd’s Hut. They are both young men with destructive useless fathers and they both are on a journey, but at different ages. As a teacher of many years, I have observed the importance of a father in the lives of young men. Having a consistent, caring and sober father is so crucial for a young male to have in his formative years, without which he can develop untamed and destructive behaviours.
Good Boy raises all sorts of questions about the justice system: crime and punishment, rehabilitation, restitution and redemption. Human to human and human to animal relationships. The lengths that we humans go to in the care, love and affection we have for these animals called our pets.
Over the closing pages Wright reveals much to the reader and fills the gaps in Cookie’s life. In her conclusion the author skilfully extracts salty droplets from the reader’s eyes, leaving them emotionally drained.
Others will retell the story of the book more than me. For me it was an interesting analogy between a man who had been treated badly from his youngest days and a dog who had had similar treatment. The two of the participate in a journey together. As the story progresses Cookie discloses more and more of his life, especially his younger years.
The story is set in 1997, August of that year and we know this because of the references to a tragic event at that time. Cookie has been in gaol for two decades, initially we are not told why. He volunteers to help with a dog training program. As the story unfolds the reader is taken back into Cookie’s childhood and told about his childhood, his uncomfortable life at primary school. His worthless criminal father. The story moves from the present back to Cookie’s childhood and back again. The seeds of who is today are shown in detail. All the time Good Boy is the ever-present reason for the things that he does and the people who he meets. However, because the story spends considerable time in the past Good Boy’s role diminishes.
This tale reminded me of that oh so true statement, ‘If you want to have a successful life, choose your parents carefully.’ I did think Cookie’s father was a one-dimensional character. Too static in nature, very stereotypical with zero redeeming features. Sadly, I thought Cookie had some of these characteristics but are at the other end of the spectrum in decency. Wright paints Cookie as too innocent as a young person. With the experience of a long teaching career, I would claim no child with the life experiences like Cookie’s turns out as untarnished as Cookie. The book becomes less and less a story about a dog, but rather about its owner. At times there are touches of melodrama.
I thought Wright handled the gaol context well. She has undoubtedly had experience with people incarcerated and their relationships with the guards and other prisoners. In gaol you don’t make friends you only make alliances.
Cookie has similar attributes to Jaxie Clackton in Tim Winton’s The Sheperd’s Hut. They are both young men with destructive useless fathers and they both are on a journey, but at different ages. As a teacher of many years, I have observed the importance of a father in the lives of young men. Having a consistent, caring and sober father is so crucial for a young male to have in his formative years, without which he can develop untamed and destructive behaviours.
Good Boy raises all sorts of questions about the justice system: crime and punishment, rehabilitation, restitution and redemption. Human to human and human to animal relationships. The lengths that we humans go to in the care, love and affection we have for these animals called our pets.
Over the closing pages Wright reveals much to the reader and fills the gaps in Cookie’s life. In her conclusion the author skilfully extracts salty droplets from the reader’s eyes, leaving them emotionally drained.
May 20, 2026
Good Boy is short yet powerful novel, highlighting the sheer injustice that some people are just unlucky to be born into. The book brings to life the meaning of "For the grace of God go I". The novel takes the reader on Cookie's journey, accompanied by Good Boy, as he runs from his past, which ultimately takes him right back to it, to try and find empathy and kindness in a world where it does not thrive.
Did Not Finish
June 3, 2026I just couldn’t get into this - I had such high hopes but it wasn’t capturing me. The characters were a bit flat.
May 7, 2026
Melbourne-based author Michelle Wright has had experience working with prisoners, some behind bars and some as tour guides in the old Pentridge Prison. This experience gives authenticity to her characterisation and the dialogue. Her central character Cookie has had a troubled childhood and adolescence, and has learned to keep his thoughts to himself because he's inarticulate and nobody listens anyway. So, at school when trouble is not his fault he says nothing and takes the punishment, and that's what he does as an eighteen-year-old when he's convicted of murder. He doesn't even accept the offer of a character reference from the one person who was kind to him, because he doesn't want her to know the circumstances. So he's inside for a very long time.
His backstory is gradually revealed but the circumstances of his crime are withheld until late in the novel. The story is set in the late 1990s when one might have hoped that schools were better at supporting kids with behavioural problems and terrible parents, but Cookie's school is only too pleased to see the back of him when he fails to return after a suspension. His father is also only too pleased to have the opportunity to enlist Cookie in his criminal activities, though he keeps the boy in the dark as to exactly what they are.
He explains to Cookie about the old copper who told him off the first time he was arrested because he was too young to be embarking on a life of crime. He regrets not listening to him, but at fourteen he thought he was king of the world.
To read the rest of my review please visit https://anzlitlovers.com/2026/05/07/g...
His backstory is gradually revealed but the circumstances of his crime are withheld until late in the novel. The story is set in the late 1990s when one might have hoped that schools were better at supporting kids with behavioural problems and terrible parents, but Cookie's school is only too pleased to see the back of him when he fails to return after a suspension. His father is also only too pleased to have the opportunity to enlist Cookie in his criminal activities, though he keeps the boy in the dark as to exactly what they are.
'We live in a very exclusive gated community here, young Cookie,' he'd said one day. The owners are very selective about who they let in.' He puffed on an invisible cigar. 'It's a members-only club.' He waved an arm as if ushering Cookie inside. 'I'm practically a founding member.' (p.101)
He explains to Cookie about the old copper who told him off the first time he was arrested because he was too young to be embarking on a life of crime. He regrets not listening to him, but at fourteen he thought he was king of the world.
He grinned and cocked his head. 'Well, I've finally made the decision to disembark from my life of crime.'
'What does that mean? asked Cookie. 'Disembark?'
'It means to get off a boat.'
'I wouldn't know,' said Cookie. 'Never actually been on a boat.'
'What, never? Not like a canoe? A tinny? Nothing?'
'Nup.'
'Bloody hell, mate, You gotta get out more.' He chuckled and slapped Cookie on the back. (p.102)
To read the rest of my review please visit https://anzlitlovers.com/2026/05/07/g...
April 21, 2026
what a deeply moving exploration of human experience. cried like a baby.
June 25, 2026
4.5⭐️ there are some books where you feel like you are walking next to the main character and for me this was one of those. I don’t even know what exactly drew me so deeply into this book but it just warmed my heart and quiet my mind in a world of so much noise.
June 14, 2026
A story about the choices we make, the choices made for us, and the pure love of animal companionship. I finished this book in a matter of days - it completely captivated me. I was an invested accomplice in Cookie and Good Boy's escape, and my heart broke at the end. This is a rare 5 star book for me.
June 8, 2026
I just want to give him a big hug.
The protagonist.
And probably the dog too.
The protagonist.
And probably the dog too.
May 25, 2026
I love stories about the bond between humans and dogs, so this one drew me in straight away. I’ll admit I was nervous at first. I was worried it might be one of those devastating dog books, but it wasn’t that kind of read.
I finished it in two days because the pacing kept me moving. The prose is easy to settle into, and the slow reveal of Cookie’s background kept me wanting to understand him more. Both of his parents abandoned him, and so much of who he is comes from that early loss. He’s still a child in many ways, looking for the kind of steady love he never had.
What really resonated with me was Cookie's bond with Good Boy, the rescued prison‑program dog. Cookie learns how to give and receive love through that relationship. It’s gentle, believable, and caring. Just a boy and a dog finding and rescuing each other. Cookie finds unconditional love, and realises the sacrifice it takes to protect that love.
A heartfelt, absorbing read. Perfect for anyone who loves human–dog stories that are emotional without being overwhelming.
I finished it in two days because the pacing kept me moving. The prose is easy to settle into, and the slow reveal of Cookie’s background kept me wanting to understand him more. Both of his parents abandoned him, and so much of who he is comes from that early loss. He’s still a child in many ways, looking for the kind of steady love he never had.
What really resonated with me was Cookie's bond with Good Boy, the rescued prison‑program dog. Cookie learns how to give and receive love through that relationship. It’s gentle, believable, and caring. Just a boy and a dog finding and rescuing each other. Cookie finds unconditional love, and realises the sacrifice it takes to protect that love.
A heartfelt, absorbing read. Perfect for anyone who loves human–dog stories that are emotional without being overwhelming.
April 27, 2026
Cookie has four months left of a long prison sentence before he is released.
To help with his outside rehabilitation, he signs up for a program that helps abandoned dogs, the ones no-one wants, to help these dogs rehabilitate as well.
Cookie tries many things, and soon a small and uneasy bond grows between them, however Cookie soon realises that his dog, which he names "Good Boy", is not going to pass his course, and will instead be put down.
Which leads to Cookie making a decision that has him revisiting his past, his mistakes, his life before prison, and the reasons why he is there.
And just as Cookie helps Good Boy, Good Boy ultimately helps him in learning from his past.
What this book gives the reader is a look at how tough exteriors, bad behaviour and disregarding the unwanted can be turned around by patience, trust, guidance, and an unbreakable bond.
And knowing that what is broken can be mended.
Good Boy's story is secondary to Cookies, but his involvement is powerful and beautiful.
Cookie has never really known love on any scale and bearing witness to his growing love of Good Boy & doing whatever he can to keep him alive, at any cost, is a powerful thing.
And shows that we all need love and trust, and hopefully that is enough to change an outcome.
I needed tissues for this one 🤧, it is one of those books that burrows in to your heart and lingers.
And any animal lover will despair at Good Boys possible outcome, but it is not bad, so there's the good news.
I think this book will stay with me for some time (as most animal stories do), because the underlying story is just so heartbreaking and yet there are small moments of joy had by both characters, moments that give so much more than just words on paper.
This is what stays with me, the beauty and the heartbreak of a bond.
I think I would do the same thing in this situation too Cookie.
---------------------------------------------------
To help with his outside rehabilitation, he signs up for a program that helps abandoned dogs, the ones no-one wants, to help these dogs rehabilitate as well.
Cookie tries many things, and soon a small and uneasy bond grows between them, however Cookie soon realises that his dog, which he names "Good Boy", is not going to pass his course, and will instead be put down.
Which leads to Cookie making a decision that has him revisiting his past, his mistakes, his life before prison, and the reasons why he is there.
And just as Cookie helps Good Boy, Good Boy ultimately helps him in learning from his past.
What this book gives the reader is a look at how tough exteriors, bad behaviour and disregarding the unwanted can be turned around by patience, trust, guidance, and an unbreakable bond.
And knowing that what is broken can be mended.
Good Boy's story is secondary to Cookies, but his involvement is powerful and beautiful.
Cookie has never really known love on any scale and bearing witness to his growing love of Good Boy & doing whatever he can to keep him alive, at any cost, is a powerful thing.
And shows that we all need love and trust, and hopefully that is enough to change an outcome.
I needed tissues for this one 🤧, it is one of those books that burrows in to your heart and lingers.
And any animal lover will despair at Good Boys possible outcome, but it is not bad, so there's the good news.
I think this book will stay with me for some time (as most animal stories do), because the underlying story is just so heartbreaking and yet there are small moments of joy had by both characters, moments that give so much more than just words on paper.
This is what stays with me, the beauty and the heartbreak of a bond.
I think I would do the same thing in this situation too Cookie.
---------------------------------------------------
May 15, 2026
this book is a reminder that a little kindness goes a long way. writing style is raw and direct, making it a very intimate and honest piece. while reading this, it honestly felt like i was there conversing with cookie. it centres heavily on what happens to a child when dealt a bad hand in life and every time i learnt more about cookie's upbringing, i felt like i understood how his present circumstances had become a reality in the first place. this book examines the difference between the familial bonds of a biological family as opposed to a chosen family and extensively covers how second chances are the doorway to redemption. for cookie, it was about the people you meet along the way. despite cookie's perseverance, it felt like his life had been sentenced before his birth and so everything that happened was most likely always going to happen in the way that it did. cookie never blamed the innocent for his misfortunes and was very kind to all animals and i think that makes him a bigger person than most. this is a book that was hard to put down and probably will be hard to pick up again.
April 19, 2026
I purchased this book after hearing the author interviewed and reading one of The Age reviews written in relation to it.
I was intrigued to engage with the premise on which it was based- a prisoner about to reenter society after a substantial incarceration and the possibility of him caring for a dog that was socially inept and in need of socialisation and rehabilitation to avoid being discarded.
The writing was easy to absorb and the narrative readily followed.
While I enjoyed the account, I was anticipating a little more about the dog and the relationship between him and Cookie, the prisoner - rather than quite as much focus on the factors that explained his actions that resulted in his conviction, especially the tortured relationship between Cookie and his father. The emergence of his mother towards the end of the novel felt rather rushed and could have been explored further in terms of her past actions and what her motives were for reappearing so many years after abandoning her son.
I was intrigued to engage with the premise on which it was based- a prisoner about to reenter society after a substantial incarceration and the possibility of him caring for a dog that was socially inept and in need of socialisation and rehabilitation to avoid being discarded.
The writing was easy to absorb and the narrative readily followed.
While I enjoyed the account, I was anticipating a little more about the dog and the relationship between him and Cookie, the prisoner - rather than quite as much focus on the factors that explained his actions that resulted in his conviction, especially the tortured relationship between Cookie and his father. The emergence of his mother towards the end of the novel felt rather rushed and could have been explored further in terms of her past actions and what her motives were for reappearing so many years after abandoning her son.
May 15, 2026
Brilliant ❤️
Read
April 19, 2026I loved the concept of humans and dogs in partnership getting a second chance at life.
Overall a heart wrenching story following Cookie and his life broken up into two timelines that come together at the end.
While I enjoyed myself reading this story it didn’t completely pull me in and enlist a strong emotional connection to the characters and the four legged friends.
Thank you Allen and Unwin for providing me a copy of this for my honest review.
Overall a heart wrenching story following Cookie and his life broken up into two timelines that come together at the end.
While I enjoyed myself reading this story it didn’t completely pull me in and enlist a strong emotional connection to the characters and the four legged friends.
Thank you Allen and Unwin for providing me a copy of this for my honest review.
April 28, 2026
A powerful and moving commentary on incarceration and the relationships between people and their dogs. This shit was sad as hell but it was fascinating and excellent and more people need to know about it
July 12, 2026
Have you ever been stopped yourself from reading a book not because you don’t want to finish it, but because you’re so invested that the ending feels like a sea of emotions that you’re not ready for? I did with this book. I was completely enraptured by Cookie’s story, his life growing up, and the unfortunate circumstances that led him to be where he was. I loved his character development and his bond with Good Boy, and I was begging and pleading for some sort of happy ending despite the odds being stacked against them.
This seems like a perfect book to be taught in high school or college. Even though the book is set in 1997, there are themes that are just as topical today: not judging a book by its cover, not being defined by your mistakes, being misunderstood, and the tragedy of circumstances are all important themes here that are executed perfectly. It’s also an exercise in patience and learning not to be frustrated with people. There were decisions early on that Cookie made that frustrated me, to the point I almost DNF’d the book, but they made sense once his character was explored. I’m so pleased that I stuck with this book, because I ended up racing through the pages to see how it all ended. Even though I haven’t been in school for 10 years at the time of reading this, I kept imagining the type of essays that I would’ve been able to write about this and thought that the lessons learnt from this book as an 18-year-old would have been incredibly valuable.
With my emotional investment, the characters, and the themes, this was racing towards a 4.5-star rating, and then… the ending happened. It took all my emotions and replaced them with frustration. It was a mood-killer, something that came out of left-field and seemed inexplicable, even with all the character development that explained everything else. I was so disappointed.
Overall, though, I’m not going to let the disappointing ending take away from the fact that I enjoyed this book. I believe that many people would benefit from reading it. I’m not the biggest fan of books having to mean something or demonstrate a life lesson, but I think that all the themes and lessons this book deals with are incredibly well-executed and worth learning.
This seems like a perfect book to be taught in high school or college. Even though the book is set in 1997, there are themes that are just as topical today: not judging a book by its cover, not being defined by your mistakes, being misunderstood, and the tragedy of circumstances are all important themes here that are executed perfectly. It’s also an exercise in patience and learning not to be frustrated with people. There were decisions early on that Cookie made that frustrated me, to the point I almost DNF’d the book, but they made sense once his character was explored. I’m so pleased that I stuck with this book, because I ended up racing through the pages to see how it all ended. Even though I haven’t been in school for 10 years at the time of reading this, I kept imagining the type of essays that I would’ve been able to write about this and thought that the lessons learnt from this book as an 18-year-old would have been incredibly valuable.
With my emotional investment, the characters, and the themes, this was racing towards a 4.5-star rating, and then… the ending happened. It took all my emotions and replaced them with frustration. It was a mood-killer, something that came out of left-field and seemed inexplicable, even with all the character development that explained everything else. I was so disappointed.
Overall, though, I’m not going to let the disappointing ending take away from the fact that I enjoyed this book. I believe that many people would benefit from reading it. I’m not the biggest fan of books having to mean something or demonstrate a life lesson, but I think that all the themes and lessons this book deals with are incredibly well-executed and worth learning.
June 24, 2026
Thank you to one of my Instagram friends who recommended this beautiful book. I was in from the first page and found every minute I could to listen to it. The story is about Cookie, a 37 year old man almost at the end of his prison sentence. Cookie is encouraged to apply for a rescue dog, attend dog training, keep the dog and be guaranteed work at a dog shelter. Told in dual time lines in current time we are part of Cookie meting his rescue dog Nigel - and the reason for the name changing to Good Boy. The past time line gradually shares Cookies childhood, and I was able to piece together Cookies challenging childhood and what led him to a prison sentence. Despite heavy and complex content there is so much humour in this book. Cookie is likely neurodivergent (although this is not stated) and his communication style is clear and unfiltered. Good Boy has had a tough life, though how is not known, it’s is extraordinary hearing Good Boys change in behaviour with the consistent influence of Cookie. The characters are real, and most very likeable. So well written and narrated, I think it’s a book I need to purchase and own. The novel is a good reminder that we never know what people have gone through and experienced. Time to hug those you love and tell them so.
June 28, 2026
Heartbreaking and heart wrenching but so beautifully and empathetically written
July 6, 2026
Such a beautiful read. A little slow in parts, but ultimately it was a story about loyalty, honesty and choices. The bonds, both dog to human and human to human, were well developed. A different type of story for sure.
June 22, 2026
The story has a good premise, and I really wanted to like it , but I just didn’t at all . It aims to be about the power of prison dogs and rehabilitation. It sounds good , right? It should be heartwarming and redemptive. Unfortunately the protagonist’s life , although certainly realistic, was way too depressing. There was just no shining lights at all, nothing to keep you going , nothing hopeful. Harsh .
September 20, 2026
moving story of a man and a troubled dog
June 18, 2026
I really like this book. Not what I normally would read. Definitely not the ending I had expected. I cried at the end.
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