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Running with Roselle: How a Blind Boy and a Puppy Grew Up, Became Best Friends, and Together Survived One of America's Darkest Days
A puppy who became a true American hero. The blind boy who let nothing stop him. When they finally grew up and met, it was magic. On September 11, 2001, a blind man escaped the World Trade Center by walking down 78 flights of stairs with his guide dog. Days later, America fell in love with Mike and Roselle, and the special bond that helped them survive. Mike shared his story in the New York Times bestselling book, Thunder Dog. Now, in Running With Roselle, kids can follow Roselle as she grows from an energetic yellow Lab prone to stealing her puppy raiser’s slippers to a confident guide dog who passes the ultimate test when her partner needs her most. Meet Mike, a boy blind from birth who excels in public school, shocks the neighbors by riding his bicycle through the streets of Palmdale, CA, drives a car around his college campus, and uses his relationship of trust and teamwork with Roselle to help others on a day that changed America forever.
- GenresAnimalsNonfiction
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 8, 2013
4 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
About the author
Michael Hingson
11 books80 followersWhen the World Trade Center was attacked on 9-11, it was as though the world stood still. It was a day that captured our full attention. Michael Hingson and his Guide Dog Roselle were on the 78th floor of Tower One that day, and were able to make their way to safety and survive the attack. The duo was immediately thrust into the international spotlight, becoming well-known representatives of the strength of the human/animal bond and a living example of the powerful partnership that exists between a blind person and their Guide Dog. In 2002 Michael joined the Guide Dogs for the Blind team as the National Public Affairs director, to share his story throughout the world on behalf of the school. In June of 2008 Michael left Guide Dogs to form The Michael Hingson Group to continue his speaking career as well as to serve as a consultent for corporations and organizations that need assistance with Inclusive and Diversity training as well as adaptive technology training.
Michael Hingson is available for speaking engagements, public appearances, consulting and training contract positions and media interviews.
In his own words:
I lived through the 9-11 tragedy and have much to say about my experiences leading up to and escaping from the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Since that day, I’ve traveled the world with Roselle and her successors; at first to help people heal and hope, and now, to help them find meaning and purpose. As a blind person living in today’s world I want people to see that while there are many different kinds of people, each with their own different gifts, we all can live and work together if we choose to open our minds and hearts and become a more inclusive world. There are positive lessons to be learned from every tragedy, and 9-11 is certainly no exception.
Because I am blind, I have a unique perspective. Because I believe in the power of partnering with my Guide Dog, I can speak from the heart about teamwork and trust. I’ve been a guest numerous times on Larry King Live, have been interviewed on Regis and Kelly, and have appeared on the CBS Morning Show – but I’m looking forward to my next big engagement: as the featured speaker at your event.
I promise to bring my faithful friend and guide dog, Africa – she has her own fan club! If it weren’t for our ability to work together as a team just as I Roselle and I did on 9-11, my story would be much different and I probably would not have learned the lessons I now can pass on to audiences throughout the world.
The events of September 11th changed the world, and they certainly changed my life. There’s something about almost losing your life that makes what really matters in life crystal clear. I left my successful 27-year career in high tech computer sales and management to travel the world speaking about the importance of teamwork and trust in our professional and personal lives.
I would like to bring my story to your audience at your next event or meeting and help you make it a memorable and rewarding experience. And you will have the satisfaction that any dollars you spend will not only cover my speaking fees, but will help others like myself enjoy the independence and companionship that comes from a partnership with a Guide Dog.
Michael Hingson is available for speaking engagements, public appearances, consulting and training contract positions and media interviews.
In his own words:
I lived through the 9-11 tragedy and have much to say about my experiences leading up to and escaping from the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Since that day, I’ve traveled the world with Roselle and her successors; at first to help people heal and hope, and now, to help them find meaning and purpose. As a blind person living in today’s world I want people to see that while there are many different kinds of people, each with their own different gifts, we all can live and work together if we choose to open our minds and hearts and become a more inclusive world. There are positive lessons to be learned from every tragedy, and 9-11 is certainly no exception.
Because I am blind, I have a unique perspective. Because I believe in the power of partnering with my Guide Dog, I can speak from the heart about teamwork and trust. I’ve been a guest numerous times on Larry King Live, have been interviewed on Regis and Kelly, and have appeared on the CBS Morning Show – but I’m looking forward to my next big engagement: as the featured speaker at your event.
I promise to bring my faithful friend and guide dog, Africa – she has her own fan club! If it weren’t for our ability to work together as a team just as I Roselle and I did on 9-11, my story would be much different and I probably would not have learned the lessons I now can pass on to audiences throughout the world.
The events of September 11th changed the world, and they certainly changed my life. There’s something about almost losing your life that makes what really matters in life crystal clear. I left my successful 27-year career in high tech computer sales and management to travel the world speaking about the importance of teamwork and trust in our professional and personal lives.
I would like to bring my story to your audience at your next event or meeting and help you make it a memorable and rewarding experience. And you will have the satisfaction that any dollars you spend will not only cover my speaking fees, but will help others like myself enjoy the independence and companionship that comes from a partnership with a Guide Dog.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
March 17, 2021
The book running with Rosella; is a poignant account of a child’s love for adventure, and the growth and the love of a guide dog for its master. Michael Hingson is a great author and a great storyteller I highly would recommend this book to anyone who likes to have a great time and a great read along with knowing that there are good things out there in life!
September 26, 2022
Running with Roselle: How a Blind Boy and a Puppy Grew Up, Became Best Friends, and Together Survived One of America’s Darkest Days is a follow-up novel by authors Michael Hingson and Jeanette Hanscome, Thunder Dog.
Running with Roselle fills in the gaps of Roselle’s upbringing and combines her story with Mike’s as he grows up and experiences life with his first guide dog.
This is how the story begins: New York. September 11th, 2001. Mike and Roselle are in the first tower when it is struck. That’s all we know.
Hingson and Hanscome then transition back in time to when Roselle was a pup. Immediately you get the sense of just how rambunctious Roselle was. A precocious ball of yellow fur, playing with her friends at puppy school. You’d think that training hasn’t begun yet, but for these puppies, training starts almost immediately. She already knows basic commands and when she makes a mistake—licking a little boy’s hand because it smells like ham—and gets corrected, she immediately stops. It’s truly amazing how quickly she reacts to the reprimand that she has done something that she shouldn’t.
While you can’t say you know exactly what is going on in a dog’s mind, it is fun to deduce by watching their faces, eyes, and body posture. Roselle is a fast learner and quick to respond, however, there are some moments in this book where she is allowed to slide with a few instances of misbehavior. A prime example would be the “stealing” of her puppy raiser’s slippers. That particular activity or prank is something that Roselle seemed prone to do quite frequently.
As stated above, this story focuses not just on Roselle, but also Mike. For those who have read Thunder Dog, some of the information will sound familiar, but you get more detail in this book as the chapters alternate between Roselle and Mike—following their lives as they move through them.
Read the full review here
Roselle continues with her training. The authors detail the ins and outs of a guide dog’s training and the potential pitfalls that will see them eliminated from the program. It is quite fascinating and informative. Roselle never stays with just one family during her training. She goes with one family for a year, and then returns to the center for further training as she moves along in the program.
There is more attention to detail in Roselle’s story in comparison to Mike’s. That does not mean, however, that there is less information. In this book, where certain scenes were skimmed over in Thunder Dog, the authors go more into detail. One particular scene that sticks out is when Mike was in his art class. It’s disappointing to know how his classmates and even his teacher treated him. All he asked for was some guidance for an assigned task. Mike shows a lot of resilience and strength in that one moment by not allowing it get to him. Or, if it did impact him, he doesn’t reflect back on that moment in a negative light.
This book is the perfect novel for young readers. The writing style is easy to understand and follow. You will enjoy how Mike details his exploits as a young child and how his parents gave him the strength to become who he is today. They never coddled him or told him he couldn’t do something. They constantly encouraged him to try new things and to keep pushing forward. This message is carried throughout the story. From Mike’s first accident in his pedal car to getting a shock of a lifetime (literally) and learning how to work with electrical wires.
In Running with Roselle, the authors detail Mike’s life, especially at school. Despite his fascination with math and sciences, he struggled with them the most due to them being visual studies. Mike’s reactions to some of the situations he must endure are understandable. Throughout his schooling, it’s apparent that some of his teachers are uncomfortable helping him along with his studies. Thankfully some take the time to help him succeed in his work. It is unfortunate that some do not, and only do the bare minimum.
The amount of detail in this book, especially when showing Roselle’s various experiences is phenomenal. There will be moments where you’ll think they must have interviewed a couple of dogs. You get the sights and smells, and can just about imagine the temptations Roselle dealt with on a daily basis. And, if you’re looking for humor, this book has that too. Apparently, Roselle snores quite a bit, and noisily at that.
While it take a while for Mike and Roselle to meet, when the pieces come together, excitement builds. You’ll recognize a certain person’s name as you read, and when you see it again in association with Mike, it will all connect together.
One disappointing aspect is that there isn’t much about Mike’s other guide dogs. Before he acquires Roselle, he has five other dogs. In Thunder Dog, they are mentioned in passing, and this book does the same thing. There are a few scenes with Squire, his first dog, but that’s it. It would have been nice to have gotten to know his previous dogs as well.
As the book draws to a close, familiar scenes unfold for readers who’ve read Thunder Dog. This time though, you get both perspectives—Roselle’s and Mike’s—as they live through those harrowing hours in the tower. The chapters continue to alternate between the two, but with more detail. Roselle’s chapters reflect what she must have been thinking and the stress she was under during the entire situation. The authors slip into a dog’s psyche flawlessly and bring Roselle’s thoughts and emotions to life.
From beginning to end, Hingson and Hanscome detail the lives of Roselle and Mike as they grow throughout the years. They are unknowingly preparing to be each other’s rock for a harrowing moment neither will forget. Through empathy, love, and dedication, the authors illustrate how Roselle’s training helped prepare her for a situation no one could have prepared for.
Pros:
Running with Roselle fills in the gaps in Mike’s and Roselle’s story from Thunder Dogs.
The attention to detail is well done.
The pacing of the story is good and keeps you engaged.
It feels like you’re able to get into Roselle’s mind.
The book is highly informative concerning Roselle’s training without becoming dull.
Cons:
Disappointing that Mike’s other guide dogs only receive passing mentions.
Lesson of the book: Regardless of the temptations that surrounded her, Roselle learned to rise to the challenge to be just what Mike needed in his darkest hour.
Cover Score: 8.7/10
Book Score: 8.8/10
Original review by Bunny @ - https://scribblesworth.wordpress.com/...
Running with Roselle fills in the gaps of Roselle’s upbringing and combines her story with Mike’s as he grows up and experiences life with his first guide dog.
This is how the story begins: New York. September 11th, 2001. Mike and Roselle are in the first tower when it is struck. That’s all we know.
Hingson and Hanscome then transition back in time to when Roselle was a pup. Immediately you get the sense of just how rambunctious Roselle was. A precocious ball of yellow fur, playing with her friends at puppy school. You’d think that training hasn’t begun yet, but for these puppies, training starts almost immediately. She already knows basic commands and when she makes a mistake—licking a little boy’s hand because it smells like ham—and gets corrected, she immediately stops. It’s truly amazing how quickly she reacts to the reprimand that she has done something that she shouldn’t.
While you can’t say you know exactly what is going on in a dog’s mind, it is fun to deduce by watching their faces, eyes, and body posture. Roselle is a fast learner and quick to respond, however, there are some moments in this book where she is allowed to slide with a few instances of misbehavior. A prime example would be the “stealing” of her puppy raiser’s slippers. That particular activity or prank is something that Roselle seemed prone to do quite frequently.
As stated above, this story focuses not just on Roselle, but also Mike. For those who have read Thunder Dog, some of the information will sound familiar, but you get more detail in this book as the chapters alternate between Roselle and Mike—following their lives as they move through them.
Read the full review here
Roselle continues with her training. The authors detail the ins and outs of a guide dog’s training and the potential pitfalls that will see them eliminated from the program. It is quite fascinating and informative. Roselle never stays with just one family during her training. She goes with one family for a year, and then returns to the center for further training as she moves along in the program.
There is more attention to detail in Roselle’s story in comparison to Mike’s. That does not mean, however, that there is less information. In this book, where certain scenes were skimmed over in Thunder Dog, the authors go more into detail. One particular scene that sticks out is when Mike was in his art class. It’s disappointing to know how his classmates and even his teacher treated him. All he asked for was some guidance for an assigned task. Mike shows a lot of resilience and strength in that one moment by not allowing it get to him. Or, if it did impact him, he doesn’t reflect back on that moment in a negative light.
This book is the perfect novel for young readers. The writing style is easy to understand and follow. You will enjoy how Mike details his exploits as a young child and how his parents gave him the strength to become who he is today. They never coddled him or told him he couldn’t do something. They constantly encouraged him to try new things and to keep pushing forward. This message is carried throughout the story. From Mike’s first accident in his pedal car to getting a shock of a lifetime (literally) and learning how to work with electrical wires.
In Running with Roselle, the authors detail Mike’s life, especially at school. Despite his fascination with math and sciences, he struggled with them the most due to them being visual studies. Mike’s reactions to some of the situations he must endure are understandable. Throughout his schooling, it’s apparent that some of his teachers are uncomfortable helping him along with his studies. Thankfully some take the time to help him succeed in his work. It is unfortunate that some do not, and only do the bare minimum.
The amount of detail in this book, especially when showing Roselle’s various experiences is phenomenal. There will be moments where you’ll think they must have interviewed a couple of dogs. You get the sights and smells, and can just about imagine the temptations Roselle dealt with on a daily basis. And, if you’re looking for humor, this book has that too. Apparently, Roselle snores quite a bit, and noisily at that.
While it take a while for Mike and Roselle to meet, when the pieces come together, excitement builds. You’ll recognize a certain person’s name as you read, and when you see it again in association with Mike, it will all connect together.
One disappointing aspect is that there isn’t much about Mike’s other guide dogs. Before he acquires Roselle, he has five other dogs. In Thunder Dog, they are mentioned in passing, and this book does the same thing. There are a few scenes with Squire, his first dog, but that’s it. It would have been nice to have gotten to know his previous dogs as well.
As the book draws to a close, familiar scenes unfold for readers who’ve read Thunder Dog. This time though, you get both perspectives—Roselle’s and Mike’s—as they live through those harrowing hours in the tower. The chapters continue to alternate between the two, but with more detail. Roselle’s chapters reflect what she must have been thinking and the stress she was under during the entire situation. The authors slip into a dog’s psyche flawlessly and bring Roselle’s thoughts and emotions to life.
From beginning to end, Hingson and Hanscome detail the lives of Roselle and Mike as they grow throughout the years. They are unknowingly preparing to be each other’s rock for a harrowing moment neither will forget. Through empathy, love, and dedication, the authors illustrate how Roselle’s training helped prepare her for a situation no one could have prepared for.
Pros:
Running with Roselle fills in the gaps in Mike’s and Roselle’s story from Thunder Dogs.
The attention to detail is well done.
The pacing of the story is good and keeps you engaged.
It feels like you’re able to get into Roselle’s mind.
The book is highly informative concerning Roselle’s training without becoming dull.
Cons:
Disappointing that Mike’s other guide dogs only receive passing mentions.
Lesson of the book: Regardless of the temptations that surrounded her, Roselle learned to rise to the challenge to be just what Mike needed in his darkest hour.
Cover Score: 8.7/10
Book Score: 8.8/10
Original review by Bunny @ - https://scribblesworth.wordpress.com/...
January 1, 2024
Running with Roselle" by Michael Hingson with Jeanette Hanscome.This is the story of Mike Hingson and his guide dog, Roselle. Mike was born premature and thereby had to complete his third trimester in an incubator, where he lost his sight due to oxygen that entered his eyes during incubation, and there was no solution for it. His parents had no other option but to accept him that way, take proper care of him, and train him not to mind his disability.On the other hand, there is a guide dog trained by the guide dog trainers club of San Rafael for the blind school in San Rafael, California.Roselle was trained alongside other guide dogs; they were given special training on how to be obedient, behave very acceptably, and be well-coordinated in all conditions and environments in which they find themselves. And upon graduation from the guide dog school, they are sold off to families that are in need of guide dog services.The Hingston family got to know about the guide dogs from the news when the father got to know about Sharon and her guide dog Nola, who, despite her disability, had made a name for herself. That's how Mike picked interest in getting a guide dog, but he had to get to 16 years old, apply, and undergo 4 weeks of training before getting one.Mike was so passionate about making a difference and making a life for himself despite his disability, not considering the societal consideration of disabled people who grow old and die to become a liability to people around them and getting people to do everything for them. Learning about blind people who made it despite being blind motivated him more.
This is a true story of Mike Hingson and his guide dog Roselle. Though Roselle wasn't the first guide dog he used during his school days, he used a guide dog, Squire. It was after his school days that he adopted Roselle, and she was his companion and Karen was his wife till the time of the hit of the World Trade Center, which Roselle helped him a lot in escaping from the tower because that's where he works.
I didn't find any problems with this book. It was a captivating read for me, and I enjoyed every bit of it. It was well edited, and I didn't find any typographical errors.
I will rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. I will recommend this book to great kids, readers who love captivating true story series, and those who are disabled based on life experiences and think it is the end of the line for them.
This is a true story of Mike Hingson and his guide dog Roselle. Though Roselle wasn't the first guide dog he used during his school days, he used a guide dog, Squire. It was after his school days that he adopted Roselle, and she was his companion and Karen was his wife till the time of the hit of the World Trade Center, which Roselle helped him a lot in escaping from the tower because that's where he works.
I didn't find any problems with this book. It was a captivating read for me, and I enjoyed every bit of it. It was well edited, and I didn't find any typographical errors.
I will rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. I will recommend this book to great kids, readers who love captivating true story series, and those who are disabled based on life experiences and think it is the end of the line for them.
May 25, 2024
In "Running with Roselle," Michael Hingson delivers a heartfelt and inspiring tribute to the remarkable bond between a guide dog and her owner, as well as their indomitable spirit in the face of adversity.
The book chronicles the extraordinary journey of Mike Hingson and his guide dog, Roselle, whose unbreakable bond was forged long before the events of September 11, 2001. From the moment they first met, it was clear that theirs was a partnership destined for greatness. As Mike navigates the challenges of growing up blind, Roselle is by his side every step of the way, offering unwavering support and unconditional love.
Hingson's narrative is both poignant and uplifting, offering readers a glimpse into the unique relationship between a guide dog and their owner. Through his vivid storytelling, we witness Roselle's transformation from an energetic puppy prone to mischief to a confident and capable guide dog who rises to the occasion when her partner needs her most.
The events of September 11, 2001, serve as a pivotal moment in Mike and Roselle's journey, showcasing their extraordinary courage and resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy. As they navigate the chaos and uncertainty of that fateful day, their bond is put to the ultimate test, and it is their unwavering trust in each other that ultimately leads them to safety.
"Running with Roselle" is not just a story about survival; it is a testament to the power of love, trust, and teamwork in overcoming life's greatest challenges. Through Mike and Roselle's story, readers are reminded of the boundless potential of the human-animal bond and the profound impact that animals can have on our lives.
In conclusion, "Running with Roselle" is a touching and poignant memoir that will resonate with readers of all ages. Michael Hingson's heartfelt tribute to his beloved guide dog serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience that can be found in the unbreakable bond between humans and animals. With its heartfelt storytelling and universal themes of love and courage, "Running with Roselle" is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers long after they have turned the final page.
The book chronicles the extraordinary journey of Mike Hingson and his guide dog, Roselle, whose unbreakable bond was forged long before the events of September 11, 2001. From the moment they first met, it was clear that theirs was a partnership destined for greatness. As Mike navigates the challenges of growing up blind, Roselle is by his side every step of the way, offering unwavering support and unconditional love.
Hingson's narrative is both poignant and uplifting, offering readers a glimpse into the unique relationship between a guide dog and their owner. Through his vivid storytelling, we witness Roselle's transformation from an energetic puppy prone to mischief to a confident and capable guide dog who rises to the occasion when her partner needs her most.
The events of September 11, 2001, serve as a pivotal moment in Mike and Roselle's journey, showcasing their extraordinary courage and resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy. As they navigate the chaos and uncertainty of that fateful day, their bond is put to the ultimate test, and it is their unwavering trust in each other that ultimately leads them to safety.
"Running with Roselle" is not just a story about survival; it is a testament to the power of love, trust, and teamwork in overcoming life's greatest challenges. Through Mike and Roselle's story, readers are reminded of the boundless potential of the human-animal bond and the profound impact that animals can have on our lives.
In conclusion, "Running with Roselle" is a touching and poignant memoir that will resonate with readers of all ages. Michael Hingson's heartfelt tribute to his beloved guide dog serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience that can be found in the unbreakable bond between humans and animals. With its heartfelt storytelling and universal themes of love and courage, "Running with Roselle" is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers long after they have turned the final page.
June 27, 2022
The Review
As an eleven-year-old boy, I remember waking up on September 11th, in the hours before the rest of my family woke, and I watched from my home in Southern California as the attacks on the World Trade Center took place. The fear and anxiety that I felt at that moment, as well as the heartbreak at the people hurt or worse in those attacks being played over and over again on TV, broke my heart and made me cling to my family more than ever before. Yet I always have known that I could never hold a candle to the people who experienced that day firsthand or the families of those who were affected by that terrible day.
The authors did such an amazing job of finding the right balance between the grim reality of that day’s events with the more detailed backstory of both Mike and Roselle. The creative direction this nonfiction read took by sharing both Mike and Roselle’s perspectives and histories was great to read, as it gave a depth of character to the nonfiction events playing out over the narrative.
Yet what really struck me was the harmonic way the author shared multiple themes and stories with the audience. The overall theme of Mike and Roselle’s fight to survive that horrible attack was the prevailing story here, but the authors hone in on Mike and Roselle’s developing relationships, as well as the process of becoming a guide dog and the things that people born or made blind want the world to know and understand through Mike’s backstory, made this such a well-rounded narrative overall.
The Verdict
Haunting, chilling, and engaging, authors Michael Hingson and Jeanette Hanscome’s “Running with Roselle” is a must-read book. Terrifying yet inspiring, the authors not only highlight the pain, the struggle, and the horrors of that awful day, but show the camaraderie, strength, and courage it took for not only Mike and Roselle to survive the events but how they helped others and bonded with other survivors to get out of the building before it was too late.
As an eleven-year-old boy, I remember waking up on September 11th, in the hours before the rest of my family woke, and I watched from my home in Southern California as the attacks on the World Trade Center took place. The fear and anxiety that I felt at that moment, as well as the heartbreak at the people hurt or worse in those attacks being played over and over again on TV, broke my heart and made me cling to my family more than ever before. Yet I always have known that I could never hold a candle to the people who experienced that day firsthand or the families of those who were affected by that terrible day.
The authors did such an amazing job of finding the right balance between the grim reality of that day’s events with the more detailed backstory of both Mike and Roselle. The creative direction this nonfiction read took by sharing both Mike and Roselle’s perspectives and histories was great to read, as it gave a depth of character to the nonfiction events playing out over the narrative.
Yet what really struck me was the harmonic way the author shared multiple themes and stories with the audience. The overall theme of Mike and Roselle’s fight to survive that horrible attack was the prevailing story here, but the authors hone in on Mike and Roselle’s developing relationships, as well as the process of becoming a guide dog and the things that people born or made blind want the world to know and understand through Mike’s backstory, made this such a well-rounded narrative overall.
The Verdict
Haunting, chilling, and engaging, authors Michael Hingson and Jeanette Hanscome’s “Running with Roselle” is a must-read book. Terrifying yet inspiring, the authors not only highlight the pain, the struggle, and the horrors of that awful day, but show the camaraderie, strength, and courage it took for not only Mike and Roselle to survive the events but how they helped others and bonded with other survivors to get out of the building before it was too late.
June 9, 2022
Being born visually impaired, and then legally blind by 14, I can so relate to Mike. I went to school about the same time frame and I can attest to the struggles students with disabilities faced. Classes were based on the chalkboard or overhead projectors. To me it was all a blur, even sitting right next to the teacher’s desk. And only a few teachers took the effort to help someone that needed the extra assistance.
Kudos to Mike, and his parents, for helping him be ordinary. We learn to live and work with our limitations and strive to be like everyone else. I totally get his thrill with driving.
As for Roselle, how could you not love her? She was so brave and sounded like an amazing dog. I just knew I would cry, and I did.
This was also an educational story as it explained how guide dogs are trained and the process they have to go through. To me, it almost borders on animal cruelty, but I understand the need for the strict discipline for them to help their partners.
What I didn’t like was making a 4 year-old and dog sound like an adult with complex thoughts and ideas. That didn’t set well with my logical brain. But that was probably just me.
Other than that, I enjoyed the story and sad that 9-11 has become a footnote in our history and almost forgotten. Readers who are dog lovers, enjoy true life stories, and like learning new stuff will love this book. I give it 4 stars.
Kudos to Mike, and his parents, for helping him be ordinary. We learn to live and work with our limitations and strive to be like everyone else. I totally get his thrill with driving.
As for Roselle, how could you not love her? She was so brave and sounded like an amazing dog. I just knew I would cry, and I did.
This was also an educational story as it explained how guide dogs are trained and the process they have to go through. To me, it almost borders on animal cruelty, but I understand the need for the strict discipline for them to help their partners.
What I didn’t like was making a 4 year-old and dog sound like an adult with complex thoughts and ideas. That didn’t set well with my logical brain. But that was probably just me.
Other than that, I enjoyed the story and sad that 9-11 has become a footnote in our history and almost forgotten. Readers who are dog lovers, enjoy true life stories, and like learning new stuff will love this book. I give it 4 stars.
November 22, 2022
Moving and Inspiring
What a delightful read. I ran the gamut of emotions - excited, thrilled, amused, fearful, sad... This is a well told true story with people and pups you adore.
The structure of the book was brilliant. It educated the reader on guide dogs as well as who Mike was/is. This built a foundation that culminated in one of America's darkest days, yet it still offered hope.
There's so much I loved about this story. The relationships were deep and memorable, but the love between Mike & Karen as well as Mike & Roselle were my favorite. The companionship and partnership they shared was something I wish for everyone.
I highly recommend this book. It's a memoir of 911, homage to a beloved pet/teammate, and guide to understanding both living with blindness and guide dogs. This title will be perfect for animal lovers, history buffs, and anyone who enjoys a heartfelt read.
What a delightful read. I ran the gamut of emotions - excited, thrilled, amused, fearful, sad... This is a well told true story with people and pups you adore.
The structure of the book was brilliant. It educated the reader on guide dogs as well as who Mike was/is. This built a foundation that culminated in one of America's darkest days, yet it still offered hope.
There's so much I loved about this story. The relationships were deep and memorable, but the love between Mike & Karen as well as Mike & Roselle were my favorite. The companionship and partnership they shared was something I wish for everyone.
I highly recommend this book. It's a memoir of 911, homage to a beloved pet/teammate, and guide to understanding both living with blindness and guide dogs. This title will be perfect for animal lovers, history buffs, and anyone who enjoys a heartfelt read.
May 29, 2022
Running With Roselle by Michael Hingson is a touching story about a blind boy and his best friend, his guide dog. The author's writing style captured me, I liked that I got to read from the boy's, Mike, perspective and from the dog's, Roselle, perspective. I absolutely recommend this book for readers of all ages.
May 29, 2022
What a delightful novel! Even though it is marked as a children's book, I believe adults would enjoy it as well. I did! The story of Mike and Roselle is just bitter-sweet, it is inspiring and moving. The 9/11 part was elegantly written for little readers to understand but not be horrified. I simply loved it!
May 29, 2022
My kids loved Roselle! And me - I loved both Mike and Roselle. This fantastic read is not only entertaining but also shows what the world looks like for a blind boy, it teaches you so much, it educates you about guide dogs and it makes you smile. What more do you need?
November 6, 2017
Perfect book to read on a rainy night. I loved learning about guide dogs for the blind. Very interesting!
January 28, 2020
The first edition of how this blind gentleman receives this Perfect guide dog and make such a workable team!!
March 15, 2023
This was such a sweet story!
August 29, 2023
The same information contained in the "Thunder Dog" book, but for a younger audience. Definitely cool for what it is.
September 5, 2016
It's rare to find a story that shares two points of view--that of a blind boy and a dog. I found the combination delightful!
Written for children, this book really got into a youngster's head and answered all of the questions one would ask about what it feels like to be a dog. Roselle, a golden retriever bred and trained to become a guide dog, passed all of the rigorous testing needed in order to ensure she could be trusted to guide her companion safely. The internal dialogue was a lot of fun and masterfully written.
Mike, a blind boy who was raised by parents that never wanted him to feel different from other kids, did not allow the limitations of blindness to keep him from succeeding in life. He brought inspiration to every page.
Bring the two of them together on one of the worst days in America's history, September 11, 2001, and you have a real page-turner. Come and see this pair find not only find their own way through the rubble, but also help others to safety.
I highly recommend this story for adults and children alike. If you are an animal lover, or if you like learning about new things, this book will entertain you the whole way through.
Written for children, this book really got into a youngster's head and answered all of the questions one would ask about what it feels like to be a dog. Roselle, a golden retriever bred and trained to become a guide dog, passed all of the rigorous testing needed in order to ensure she could be trusted to guide her companion safely. The internal dialogue was a lot of fun and masterfully written.
Mike, a blind boy who was raised by parents that never wanted him to feel different from other kids, did not allow the limitations of blindness to keep him from succeeding in life. He brought inspiration to every page.
Bring the two of them together on one of the worst days in America's history, September 11, 2001, and you have a real page-turner. Come and see this pair find not only find their own way through the rubble, but also help others to safety.
I highly recommend this story for adults and children alike. If you are an animal lover, or if you like learning about new things, this book will entertain you the whole way through.
March 18, 2014
Oh my gosh! What an adorably touching story about the bond between man and dog. RUNNING WITH ROSELLE by Michael Hingson is truly a book for kids with a soft soft for humanity and animals alike.
We started reading this to our 7 year old and 8 year old at bedtime. (It's a chapter book designed for indendent readers 8+ years). Told from alternating points-of-view in Roselle's voice (guide dog puppy) and her human, Michael (blind since birth), it truly touches the spirit.
Meet Mike as a young boy (about 4 years old) as he is raised by his parents in Chicago after first, later moving to California. Mike was born premature and because of the added oxygen to his incubator, he became blind. While others suggested he'd never be able to live a full life at home with his family (this was in the early 1950's), his parents refused to institutionalize Mike. Through a series of hard-knocks, we learn just how challenging a "dark life" can can be. But this man has grit!
Alternatingly, we learn about guidedog puppies, how they are bred, trained, and raised. It's truly eye-opening. Told in such a charasmatic manner, with active scenes that engage even the youngest reader--and adults alike, this book is such a joy.
We started reading this to our 7 year old and 8 year old at bedtime. (It's a chapter book designed for indendent readers 8+ years). Told from alternating points-of-view in Roselle's voice (guide dog puppy) and her human, Michael (blind since birth), it truly touches the spirit.
Meet Mike as a young boy (about 4 years old) as he is raised by his parents in Chicago after first, later moving to California. Mike was born premature and because of the added oxygen to his incubator, he became blind. While others suggested he'd never be able to live a full life at home with his family (this was in the early 1950's), his parents refused to institutionalize Mike. Through a series of hard-knocks, we learn just how challenging a "dark life" can can be. But this man has grit!
Alternatingly, we learn about guidedog puppies, how they are bred, trained, and raised. It's truly eye-opening. Told in such a charasmatic manner, with active scenes that engage even the youngest reader--and adults alike, this book is such a joy.
Read
February 4, 2014This book was written from the dog's perspective. Cute! This is a young adult book but I loved it!
June 30, 2014
More detail into the Thunderdog story.
Want to read
September 22, 2016good
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