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The Stars Look Like Home
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Expected 12 Jan 27From beloved #1 New York Times bestselling author TJ Klune comes The Stars Look Like Home, a funny and moving adventure novel about finding one’s place in the universe from the perspective of a dog.
A promise: The dog does not die in this.
As a puppy, Burke’s mother told him that dogs' lives are like the stars in the sky: An everlasting light in the darkness. And so, naturally, Burke believes he will live forever.
When he discovers the truth—that he barely has any time at all—he sets out to make the absolute most of life and all it has to offer.
Try as he might to make every day count, he’s shuffled from one place to another, from family homes to training programs.
Until, at last, he finds the man he knows he's meant to share that life with. But when they’re tragically separated, Burke, a shollie from the suburbs, is sent on an incredible journey through the wilderness, a journey that leads him to the very heart of what it means to have a place in the world, for what little time we’re here.
The Stars Look Like Home is a triumphant story about a good boy on a grand adventure to find a great life.
The hardcover edition will feature a beautiful case stamp.
A promise: The dog does not die in this.
As a puppy, Burke’s mother told him that dogs' lives are like the stars in the sky: An everlasting light in the darkness. And so, naturally, Burke believes he will live forever.
When he discovers the truth—that he barely has any time at all—he sets out to make the absolute most of life and all it has to offer.
Try as he might to make every day count, he’s shuffled from one place to another, from family homes to training programs.
Until, at last, he finds the man he knows he's meant to share that life with. But when they’re tragically separated, Burke, a shollie from the suburbs, is sent on an incredible journey through the wilderness, a journey that leads him to the very heart of what it means to have a place in the world, for what little time we’re here.
The Stars Look Like Home is a triumphant story about a good boy on a grand adventure to find a great life.
The hardcover edition will feature a beautiful case stamp.
368 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication January 12, 2027
About the author
T.J. Klune
68 books65.4k followersTJ KLUNE is a Lambda Literary Award-winning author (Into This River I Drown) and an ex-claims examiner for an insurance company. His novels include The House in the Cerulean Sea and The Extraordinaries. Being queer himself, TJ believes it's important—now more than ever—to have accurate, positive, queer representation in stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
Want to Read
February 26, 2026it's about a dog finding his place in the world. I'm legit already crying.
Want to Read
January 28, 2026scheduling my next breakdown a year from now like it’s a dentist appointment 🫶🏼
Want to Read
January 21, 2026A new T.J. Klune book!!! and the title is from a Britney song!!!
stream Alien by Britney Spears!
stream Alien by Britney Spears!
Want to Read
May 7, 2026Shut the f*ck up, I’m already crying!
June 16, 2026
I knew this book was going to make me cry!!! I knew going into this book the dog does not die. So that helps!
It’s T.J. Klune. The main character is a dog. There was literally no way I was making it through this one without having all the emotions.
We follow Burke, a sweet, loyal dog who sets out on a journey to find where he belongs and what it means to love and be loved. Through different homes, different people, and different stages of life, Burke experiences joy, loss, friendship, heartbreak, and the kind of unconditional love that only dogs seem capable of giving.
This book is so beautiful. Klune has the ability to take big emotions and still give you comfort. Burke truly stole my heart. Dogs are the purest souls and I just felt that all the way through.
It’s T.J. Klune. The main character is a dog. There was literally no way I was making it through this one without having all the emotions.
We follow Burke, a sweet, loyal dog who sets out on a journey to find where he belongs and what it means to love and be loved. Through different homes, different people, and different stages of life, Burke experiences joy, loss, friendship, heartbreak, and the kind of unconditional love that only dogs seem capable of giving.
This book is so beautiful. Klune has the ability to take big emotions and still give you comfort. Burke truly stole my heart. Dogs are the purest souls and I just felt that all the way through.
February 23, 2026
Even with being a cat person this book was so great. TJ Klunes writing never disappoints me. Tears were shed, as expected. Smiles were worn throughout. Thank you for another great journey.
June 24, 2026
How?! How can someone write a story from the perspective of a dog that makes us reflect on what it means to be human? Only TJ Klune!
The pure talent of this author is astounding. I cried and laughed out loud so many times. I thought about the story all day when I was not reading.
This book is gentle and tender, hilarious and sweet, all while walking the reader through grief, fear, disappointment, and finding joy, light, and love in the midst of it all.
I literally could not have loved it more if I tried.
THANK YOU to NetGalley and the publisher for this beautiful gift of an ARC.
The pure talent of this author is astounding. I cried and laughed out loud so many times. I thought about the story all day when I was not reading.
This book is gentle and tender, hilarious and sweet, all while walking the reader through grief, fear, disappointment, and finding joy, light, and love in the midst of it all.
I literally could not have loved it more if I tried.
THANK YOU to NetGalley and the publisher for this beautiful gift of an ARC.
June 8, 2026
Another gem from the most amazing author. I had the absolute privilege to win an advanced copy of this book - which was made for me. My heart consists of mostly dog, and winning this book signed by TJ Klune himself 7 months before it comes out was an absolute dream.
Open your hearts, and fall in love with Burke- a dog whose thoughts and feeling you see in first person- erm I mean “first dog” point of view. You follow his journey of discovering- which includes love, loss, heartbreak, and his purpose- which just so happens to be his human who is such a “good boy” according to Burke. Fall in love with the ups and downs and the feeling of belonging. Dogs, man oh man are we even worthy? I’m not sure, but it’s their glimmer that keeps me going.
I am. I am. I am.
“There have been others like you," she said. "Many others. You're not the first, and you won't be the last. It doesn't make you any less ofa dog. It just means you have a different path to take. And wherever that path leads you, I know that, in the end, you'll find where you're supposed to be. You will find your place in the stars, because you burn oh so brightly."
Thank you TJ Klune for another amazing heartfelt story that I’ll carry with me.
Open your hearts, and fall in love with Burke- a dog whose thoughts and feeling you see in first person- erm I mean “first dog” point of view. You follow his journey of discovering- which includes love, loss, heartbreak, and his purpose- which just so happens to be his human who is such a “good boy” according to Burke. Fall in love with the ups and downs and the feeling of belonging. Dogs, man oh man are we even worthy? I’m not sure, but it’s their glimmer that keeps me going.
I am. I am. I am.
“There have been others like you," she said. "Many others. You're not the first, and you won't be the last. It doesn't make you any less ofa dog. It just means you have a different path to take. And wherever that path leads you, I know that, in the end, you'll find where you're supposed to be. You will find your place in the stars, because you burn oh so brightly."
Thank you TJ Klune for another amazing heartfelt story that I’ll carry with me.
July 7, 2026
This story was so hard to read through the TEARS in my eyes! Are you joking? This book was my introduction to TJ Klune, and I will thank the book gods forever for allowing me the chance to read this before it released. Please tell me their other books are just as impactful as this because it has set such an unbelievably high standard for me.
Genuinely my favorite read of all time. I can’t. I’m buying a copy for everyone I know, my mom, my sister, my brothers, my dad, my boyfriend, his family, my friends, my coworkers… everyone.
A previous book review I wrote said, “I’m a cat person!” I lied!!
Two chapters in I was tearing up. By 20% I was full on sobbing already. Omg, I loved this so much. I usually have a lot of downtime to read at work, but I NEEDED to finish this at home, and thank God I did because I was a crying mess. I loved it so much.
Any time we were at the dog park, I was having the time of my life in the story. So good!!
And thanks to a dog named Melon, my negative thoughts about the word “but” have changed. I used to think “but” was only used as an argument and always negated what came before it, BUT thanks to Melon I realized it can be a neutral contrast word. Thank you, Melon!
I already told my boyfriend we’re naming our next corgi Melon.
Genuinely my favorite read of all time. I can’t. I’m buying a copy for everyone I know, my mom, my sister, my brothers, my dad, my boyfriend, his family, my friends, my coworkers… everyone.
A previous book review I wrote said, “I’m a cat person!” I lied!!
Two chapters in I was tearing up. By 20% I was full on sobbing already. Omg, I loved this so much. I usually have a lot of downtime to read at work, but I NEEDED to finish this at home, and thank God I did because I was a crying mess. I loved it so much.
Any time we were at the dog park, I was having the time of my life in the story. So good!!
And thanks to a dog named Melon, my negative thoughts about the word “but” have changed. I used to think “but” was only used as an argument and always negated what came before it, BUT thanks to Melon I realized it can be a neutral contrast word. Thank you, Melon!
I already told my boyfriend we’re naming our next corgi Melon.
July 5, 2026
I knew going into The Stars Look Like Home that TJ Klune would probably make me emotional. I was not prepared for just how many times this book would make me ugly cry - in the absolute best way.
This story is full of the warmth, humor, heartbreak, and hope that I’ve come to expect from Klune, wrapped around the incredible bond between humans and their dogs. And, importantly, it holds true to its promise: the dog does not die. That didn’t stop the tears - not even close - but it did mean I could fully give myself over to the story without bracing for that particular heartbreak.
I also loved the subtle references to Under the Whispering Door; as someone who loved that book, catching those little connections made this one feel even more special.
And now I’m probably going to spend the rest of my life wondering what my own dog is actually saying when she gets very talkative after I’ve been out of her sight for more than five minutes. Honestly, after reading this, I’m not entirely convinced I want to know.
This was one of my most anticipated reads for 2027, and somehow it still exceeded my expectations.
A huge thank you to TJ Klune, Tor Publishing Group, and NetGalley for the advance review copy in exchange for an honest review.
This story is full of the warmth, humor, heartbreak, and hope that I’ve come to expect from Klune, wrapped around the incredible bond between humans and their dogs. And, importantly, it holds true to its promise: the dog does not die. That didn’t stop the tears - not even close - but it did mean I could fully give myself over to the story without bracing for that particular heartbreak.
I also loved the subtle references to Under the Whispering Door; as someone who loved that book, catching those little connections made this one feel even more special.
And now I’m probably going to spend the rest of my life wondering what my own dog is actually saying when she gets very talkative after I’ve been out of her sight for more than five minutes. Honestly, after reading this, I’m not entirely convinced I want to know.
This was one of my most anticipated reads for 2027, and somehow it still exceeded my expectations.
A huge thank you to TJ Klune, Tor Publishing Group, and NetGalley for the advance review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Want to Read
May 13, 2026Is anymore more a fan of T.J. Klune than myself???
that's rhetorical!
but screaming about the ARC I got!!!!!!!!!!!!
that's rhetorical!
but screaming about the ARC I got!!!!!!!!!!!!
July 11, 2026
This one just might be my favorite TJ Klune book 🩵 🐕 💫.
“Give your heart and soul to me, and life will always be….La vie en rose” 🎺
“Give your heart and soul to me, and life will always be….La vie en rose” 🎺
July 7, 2026
Key to reading this book: knowing the dog doesn’t die
Beneficial to read Under the Whispering Door before reading The Stars Look Like Home, but not necessary.
Story told from the perspective of a dog named Burke, who ultimately steals your heart. TJ Klune managed to write a beautiful story on how to fight through grief and how to fight through the hardest of days, and even in those hardest moments you still matter. This book is a tear jerker, so keep tissues nearby.
“You told me that if you can breathe, you can stand up. And if you can stand up, you can move. You’re breathing. You’re standing. So, let’s move.”
Beneficial to read Under the Whispering Door before reading The Stars Look Like Home, but not necessary.
Story told from the perspective of a dog named Burke, who ultimately steals your heart. TJ Klune managed to write a beautiful story on how to fight through grief and how to fight through the hardest of days, and even in those hardest moments you still matter. This book is a tear jerker, so keep tissues nearby.
“You told me that if you can breathe, you can stand up. And if you can stand up, you can move. You’re breathing. You’re standing. So, let’s move.”
July 17, 2026
It has been a long time since a book got me like this. It will hit your heart as a dog lover and might be my new favorite from Klune!
*won ARC from Goodreads giveaway
*won ARC from Goodreads giveaway
April 24, 2026
Thank you to Edelweiss, T.J. Klune, and the publisher for this free ARC. TJ Klune has done it again, he has written another heart warming masterpiece. Told from a dog’s point of view, The Stars Look Like Home will have you smile at Burke’s child-like enthusiasm and loyal, enduring love. There are also moments of sadness that will rip your heart out. I strongly suggest reading this book, especially with a dog at your side.
Read
May 18, 2026He opened his eyes at two weeks old and his first thoughts were “I…I…am? I…am. I am! I am! I am!” First he was “the boy”. That’s what his mother called him, after all. Weeks later, he decided that his name should be Wolf. Mother said that dogs used to be wolves. Or maybe Wolf Star. Or maybe even Wolf Immortal Star. Because his mother said he was a star, and stars are forever. Maybe Forever Wolf…
Forever Wolf finally found his humans, and they called him Burke.
Burke is an energetic puppy, a bit mouthy (he has so much to say, and it’s not his fault that the humans can’t understand his language), and absolutely ecstatic about the world around him. Going to a new home is a little scary, but Burke falls in love with his humans almost immediately. Challenges, change, heartbreak, and new loves ensue, as Burke finds the perfect family for him.
TJ Klune is a magical kind of storyteller who can weave a heartrending tale from any point of view, and in this case he has taken the perspective of a dog. In this fantasy world, we get the inside view of a newborn pup who takes a circuitous route to find his perfect place in the world.
I am always amazed at how I am so invested in Klune’s characters. The House in the Cerulean Sea and Somewhere Beyond the Sea are a couple of my favorite books of all time. Under the Whispering Door absolutely made me sob. We Burned So Bright was a road trip across the country in search of what two parents had lost. I could go on…but I will just say that Klune has really found his voice and I will always be looking for more of his writing.
Klune makes a promise at the very beginning to quell the fears of animal lovers everywhere. He says: “The dog does not die in this. Within these pages, he is forever.”
Forever Wolf finally found his humans, and they called him Burke.
Burke is an energetic puppy, a bit mouthy (he has so much to say, and it’s not his fault that the humans can’t understand his language), and absolutely ecstatic about the world around him. Going to a new home is a little scary, but Burke falls in love with his humans almost immediately. Challenges, change, heartbreak, and new loves ensue, as Burke finds the perfect family for him.
TJ Klune is a magical kind of storyteller who can weave a heartrending tale from any point of view, and in this case he has taken the perspective of a dog. In this fantasy world, we get the inside view of a newborn pup who takes a circuitous route to find his perfect place in the world.
I am always amazed at how I am so invested in Klune’s characters. The House in the Cerulean Sea and Somewhere Beyond the Sea are a couple of my favorite books of all time. Under the Whispering Door absolutely made me sob. We Burned So Bright was a road trip across the country in search of what two parents had lost. I could go on…but I will just say that Klune has really found his voice and I will always be looking for more of his writing.
Klune makes a promise at the very beginning to quell the fears of animal lovers everywhere. He says: “The dog does not die in this. Within these pages, he is forever.”
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
*Review of an advance copy received from NetGalley.*
“The dog does not die in this. Within these pages, he is forever.”
Even with TJ Klune’s promise at the beginning, I was still nervous going into this book. I can’t handle animal death. But Klune was honest: the dog does not die. Instead, this is the story of a dog named Burke who lives, who struggles, who hurts, who loves, and who ultimately finds his place in the world. Burke experiences grief, loss, and betrayal, yet still finds the strength to love again.
I cried while reading this book, but I laughed just as much. I expected to enjoy it because I’ve loved all of TJ Klune’s books, but I didn’t expect to love it as much as I did. At first, I thought: it’s a book about a dog — how relatable can it really be?
But this story isn’t just about a dog. It’s about life, death, happiness, resilience, and what it truly means to keep living even through the hardest of times. The simple way Burke and his pack approach life and its challenges was both refreshing and surprisingly profound. It reminded me that humans often make things far more complicated than they need to be.
Burke’s perseverance stayed with me long after I finished the book. His journey is a reminder to keep moving forward — to get up out of bed each morning even though you don’t want to, to keep going, and keep loving despite all the shit life throws at you.
Though Burke is fictional, he is also real, inspired by the stories we’ve all heard about pets traveling impossible distances just to find their way home to their humans. Give your pets an extra-long hug tonight, and maybe a few extra treats too. There is no love more genuine or unconditional than the love of a pet. While I don’t have a dog, I have cats and I think any animal lover will love this book.
Thank you TJ Klune for yet another beautifully well written and poignant tale, and thank you NetGalley for this ARC. I cannot wait to get a physical copy of this book once it’s out.
“The dog does not die in this. Within these pages, he is forever.”
Even with TJ Klune’s promise at the beginning, I was still nervous going into this book. I can’t handle animal death. But Klune was honest: the dog does not die. Instead, this is the story of a dog named Burke who lives, who struggles, who hurts, who loves, and who ultimately finds his place in the world. Burke experiences grief, loss, and betrayal, yet still finds the strength to love again.
I cried while reading this book, but I laughed just as much. I expected to enjoy it because I’ve loved all of TJ Klune’s books, but I didn’t expect to love it as much as I did. At first, I thought: it’s a book about a dog — how relatable can it really be?
But this story isn’t just about a dog. It’s about life, death, happiness, resilience, and what it truly means to keep living even through the hardest of times. The simple way Burke and his pack approach life and its challenges was both refreshing and surprisingly profound. It reminded me that humans often make things far more complicated than they need to be.
Burke’s perseverance stayed with me long after I finished the book. His journey is a reminder to keep moving forward — to get up out of bed each morning even though you don’t want to, to keep going, and keep loving despite all the shit life throws at you.
Though Burke is fictional, he is also real, inspired by the stories we’ve all heard about pets traveling impossible distances just to find their way home to their humans. Give your pets an extra-long hug tonight, and maybe a few extra treats too. There is no love more genuine or unconditional than the love of a pet. While I don’t have a dog, I have cats and I think any animal lover will love this book.
Thank you TJ Klune for yet another beautifully well written and poignant tale, and thank you NetGalley for this ARC. I cannot wait to get a physical copy of this book once it’s out.
June 29, 2026
**Thanks to NetGalley and Tor Publishing Group | Wildthorn for an advance audiobook copy in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars, rounded to 4 stars. Full disclosure, I struggle with books on the themes of death and loss. They are just really hard for me. I wanted to love this book, and while I did mostly like it, it just wasn’t my favorite. The fact that it centers so heavily on the themes of death and loss probably plays heavily into my overall feelings about this title (though I appreciated the heads up from the beginning that the dog doesn’t die!). I love the references to _Under the Whispering Door_, another of his titles that I struggled with, again because of those themes of death and loss. Personally, I like the Cerulean Sea titles better, but this was pretty good. If you like _Under the Whispering Door_, definitely give this one a go.
3.5 stars, rounded to 4 stars. Full disclosure, I struggle with books on the themes of death and loss. They are just really hard for me. I wanted to love this book, and while I did mostly like it, it just wasn’t my favorite. The fact that it centers so heavily on the themes of death and loss probably plays heavily into my overall feelings about this title (though I appreciated the heads up from the beginning that the dog doesn’t die!). I love the references to _Under the Whispering Door_, another of his titles that I struggled with, again because of those themes of death and loss. Personally, I like the Cerulean Sea titles better, but this was pretty good. If you like _Under the Whispering Door_, definitely give this one a go.
July 8, 2026
This book made me feel everything. T.J. Klune is one of my favorite authors of all time. I love the way he writes humanity and all of the details and emotions he puts onto the pages. Burke is the most precious dog to be created and this book has definitely made me take a closer look at my dog’s interactions.
Also the callback to Under the Whispering Door, hello! Love that tiny detail.
T.J. really makes you have a deeper respect for life and the people in it. People are messy and imperfect, but so good at their core. I don’t think I’ve read a Klune book and not cried, but that’s the beauty in his writing. “The Stars Look Like Home” is a book that will stick with me for a while and I think I might’ve found my new comfort book.
Ending with a quote I just saw — “How beautiful it is to love a dog for all their life, and remember them for all of yours.”
Also the callback to Under the Whispering Door, hello! Love that tiny detail.
T.J. really makes you have a deeper respect for life and the people in it. People are messy and imperfect, but so good at their core. I don’t think I’ve read a Klune book and not cried, but that’s the beauty in his writing. “The Stars Look Like Home” is a book that will stick with me for a while and I think I might’ve found my new comfort book.
Ending with a quote I just saw — “How beautiful it is to love a dog for all their life, and remember them for all of yours.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2026
Somehow, after not reading a book from the point of view of a dog since childhood, I have read two such books in the past year (The other being Paul Yoon's Etna). I had a similar reaction when reading both books--initial disappointment turned into reluctant enjoyment. I had to really be convinced to continue reading both books--not because they were poorly written, but because there are strong YA vibes when a story is told from the perspective of an animal in a human's world.
Yes, this book veers into the juvenile, but it's also heartwarming and funny as Klune's books tend to be. My favorites were Lightning and Oscar, a three-legged rescue pit bull with a traumatic past and a crotchety demeanor whose tough exterior is eroded by Burke's charm. *My* hard exterior was once again demolished by Klune's writing--I've fallen in love with his characters in this past, and the human and canine inhabitants of The Stars Look Like Home were no exception.
SLIGHT SPOILER
If you enjoyed Under the Whispering Door, you may see a few familiar faces.
Yes, this book veers into the juvenile, but it's also heartwarming and funny as Klune's books tend to be. My favorites were Lightning and Oscar, a three-legged rescue pit bull with a traumatic past and a crotchety demeanor whose tough exterior is eroded by Burke's charm. *My* hard exterior was once again demolished by Klune's writing--I've fallen in love with his characters in this past, and the human and canine inhabitants of The Stars Look Like Home were no exception.
SLIGHT SPOILER
If you enjoyed Under the Whispering Door, you may see a few familiar faces.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"𝑾𝒆 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒔, 𝑩𝒖𝒓𝒌𝒆, 𝒚𝒆𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒆 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒏. 𝑶𝒉, 𝒅𝒐 𝒘𝒆 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒏 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒂 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒏𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔. 𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕'𝒔 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒆𝒙𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈. 𝑻𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒂 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕."
As a puppy, Burke is told by his mother that dogs are like stars, that even when they disappear from sight, their light remains. So Burke grows up believing, in the simple wholehearted way only a dog can, that life will stretch on forever. But when he learns how short that life truly is, everything changes. He is passed from home to home, searching for belonging, until he finally finds the person who feels like home itself. And when that bond is broken, Burke begins a journey through the wilderness that becomes something so much larger than survival. This is not just a story about a dog; it is a story about loving while knowing loss is inevitable and choosing to love anyway. And no, the dog doesn't die in this one.
I'm used to being emotionally destroyed by this author's books, but this one was different. I knew before reading the first word that this book had something to tell me and that I needed to pay attention. This book was hopeful, joyful, and painful all at once, and I cried over passages that were not really about dogs at all, but about us. About the fragile, temporary nature of every relationship we build. About how we spend our lives trying not to think about endings even though they shape everything we cherish. Burke’s perspective strips away all the noise humans bury themselves under and leaves behind something absolutely pure. What made my heart smile was the cast of animal characters surrounding Burke that made this story feel even more alive. Every creature Burke encounters leaves some imprint on him, whether through comfort, wisdom, or complete chaos, including the squirrel that drove him absolutely insane and somehow still managed to be oddly endearing. Their personalities are so vivid and full of heart that they stop feeling like side characters and start feeling like companions on the journey.
And the lesson this book wanted me to learn was this: many people, myself included, spend their entire lives trying to avoid the fact that grief exists because love existed first. Every goodbye in this story hurts because every connection mattered so deeply. But beneath all that heartbreak is the comforting fact that Burke never stops loving. Even after loss. Even after fear. Even after the world changes around him in ways he cannot understand. He keeps moving forward with trust and hope because that is what love teaches him to do. By the final page, I was not crying because of sadness; I was crying because I was reminded that our lives are small and temporary and unbearably precious, and that the point was never to stay forever. The point was simply to leave light behind for the people who loved us after we are gone. So many thanks to Tor Publishing for this beautiful book that healed my heart. Look for it January 12, 2027.
As a puppy, Burke is told by his mother that dogs are like stars, that even when they disappear from sight, their light remains. So Burke grows up believing, in the simple wholehearted way only a dog can, that life will stretch on forever. But when he learns how short that life truly is, everything changes. He is passed from home to home, searching for belonging, until he finally finds the person who feels like home itself. And when that bond is broken, Burke begins a journey through the wilderness that becomes something so much larger than survival. This is not just a story about a dog; it is a story about loving while knowing loss is inevitable and choosing to love anyway. And no, the dog doesn't die in this one.
I'm used to being emotionally destroyed by this author's books, but this one was different. I knew before reading the first word that this book had something to tell me and that I needed to pay attention. This book was hopeful, joyful, and painful all at once, and I cried over passages that were not really about dogs at all, but about us. About the fragile, temporary nature of every relationship we build. About how we spend our lives trying not to think about endings even though they shape everything we cherish. Burke’s perspective strips away all the noise humans bury themselves under and leaves behind something absolutely pure. What made my heart smile was the cast of animal characters surrounding Burke that made this story feel even more alive. Every creature Burke encounters leaves some imprint on him, whether through comfort, wisdom, or complete chaos, including the squirrel that drove him absolutely insane and somehow still managed to be oddly endearing. Their personalities are so vivid and full of heart that they stop feeling like side characters and start feeling like companions on the journey.
And the lesson this book wanted me to learn was this: many people, myself included, spend their entire lives trying to avoid the fact that grief exists because love existed first. Every goodbye in this story hurts because every connection mattered so deeply. But beneath all that heartbreak is the comforting fact that Burke never stops loving. Even after loss. Even after fear. Even after the world changes around him in ways he cannot understand. He keeps moving forward with trust and hope because that is what love teaches him to do. By the final page, I was not crying because of sadness; I was crying because I was reminded that our lives are small and temporary and unbearably precious, and that the point was never to stay forever. The point was simply to leave light behind for the people who loved us after we are gone. So many thanks to Tor Publishing for this beautiful book that healed my heart. Look for it January 12, 2027.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is a book where the dog doesn’t die, but you still might cry. I know I did.
The Stars Look Like Home is T.J. Klune’s latest cozy novel, following a dog as he journeys through his life. Burke begins as a puppy, earning his first days of sentience, and grows throughout the story. There’s humor and excitement and perfect stakes, all told through the eyes of a very intelligent dog.
This is my sixth book by Klune, and all the previous books had some element of fantasy or science fiction. This book is deeply grounded in reality, but somehow still feels like magic. The storytelling is compelling and captivating. Klune imagines the internal mind of a canine in a way that feels both groundbreakingly novel and achingly familiar, capturing the essence of our beloved canine friends.
I adored this book. I laughed, I cried, I mused. There are sections of philosophy, discussing death and life; there are slivers of deep depression and grief; there are moments of joy and reconciliation and hope. The story is delightful and heartbreaking and gentle and cozy all at once, a light in the darkness. I felt for Burke in his moments of darkness and celebrated in his moments of joy. I shared quotes with friends, then stopped (because I knew that I would need to force them to read this book, too.)
I won’t say this book is for everyone. If you need huge stakes, or dramatic scenes, this isn’t the book for you. For me, when your protagonist is so vulnerable, small stakes feel just right. This is about a dog, just trying to find a place in the world. And it felt like its own kind of magic.
Thank you to T.J. Klune, Tor, and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy!
The Stars Look Like Home is T.J. Klune’s latest cozy novel, following a dog as he journeys through his life. Burke begins as a puppy, earning his first days of sentience, and grows throughout the story. There’s humor and excitement and perfect stakes, all told through the eyes of a very intelligent dog.
This is my sixth book by Klune, and all the previous books had some element of fantasy or science fiction. This book is deeply grounded in reality, but somehow still feels like magic. The storytelling is compelling and captivating. Klune imagines the internal mind of a canine in a way that feels both groundbreakingly novel and achingly familiar, capturing the essence of our beloved canine friends.
I adored this book. I laughed, I cried, I mused. There are sections of philosophy, discussing death and life; there are slivers of deep depression and grief; there are moments of joy and reconciliation and hope. The story is delightful and heartbreaking and gentle and cozy all at once, a light in the darkness. I felt for Burke in his moments of darkness and celebrated in his moments of joy. I shared quotes with friends, then stopped (because I knew that I would need to force them to read this book, too.)
I won’t say this book is for everyone. If you need huge stakes, or dramatic scenes, this isn’t the book for you. For me, when your protagonist is so vulnerable, small stakes feel just right. This is about a dog, just trying to find a place in the world. And it felt like its own kind of magic.
Thank you to T.J. Klune, Tor, and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First and foremost, thank you #NetGalley for providing an arc of this book in exchange for my opinions! I am having such mixed emotions on this book. I can confidently say that Burke's story is a solid 4 star. However, the writing style pulled me out of it.
This is my first experience reading a TJ Klune book. I saw this book and the story synopsis and was immediately sold! I am new to his writing style which was very easy to read/consume but the crude humor and language took me out of the story at times. For such an emotionally charged story, which I anticipated to read as heartwarming and cozy (which I did feel!), the humor and crude language pulled me out of it... :( Also knowing that we were going to have a happy ending (which I am incredibly grateful for) made me not feel pressured to keep picking it back up. It was a story to take my time with.
With that said, I was extremely lucky to have attended the author talk event with TJ in Columbus this past weekend. After meeting him, his humor and ADD brain made his writing make SO much more sense. I was able to start reading Burke's story with a little insight to Tj's perspective. I was so glad to have gotten to ask him about what inspired him to write Burke's story which was so beautiful of him to share. I won't be giving any spoilers, but expect to fall in love with our goofy guy Burke. I did enjoy his story overall, and I cried at least twice, and would confidently rate this a 3.5!
I can't wait for the rest of you to read Burke's story of love and loss and the joys of being a dog. :)
#NetGalley #TJKlune #ARCreader
This is my first experience reading a TJ Klune book. I saw this book and the story synopsis and was immediately sold! I am new to his writing style which was very easy to read/consume but the crude humor and language took me out of the story at times. For such an emotionally charged story, which I anticipated to read as heartwarming and cozy (which I did feel!), the humor and crude language pulled me out of it... :( Also knowing that we were going to have a happy ending (which I am incredibly grateful for) made me not feel pressured to keep picking it back up. It was a story to take my time with.
With that said, I was extremely lucky to have attended the author talk event with TJ in Columbus this past weekend. After meeting him, his humor and ADD brain made his writing make SO much more sense. I was able to start reading Burke's story with a little insight to Tj's perspective. I was so glad to have gotten to ask him about what inspired him to write Burke's story which was so beautiful of him to share. I won't be giving any spoilers, but expect to fall in love with our goofy guy Burke. I did enjoy his story overall, and I cried at least twice, and would confidently rate this a 3.5!
I can't wait for the rest of you to read Burke's story of love and loss and the joys of being a dog. :)
#NetGalley #TJKlune #ARCreader
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oh my.
I started The Stars Look Like Home convinced that it couldn't possibly measure up to The House in the Cerulean Sea, which I still consider TJ Klune's masterpiece. I'm thrilled to admit how wrong I was. While I still give Cerulean Sea the slightest of edges, this novel comes so close that comparing them almost feels unfair.
First, thank you for the note at the beginning assuring readers that no dog dies in this book. As someone who always worries about that, I appreciated it immensely. Yes, it made one scene a little less suspenseful, but I'd make that trade every single time.
TJ Klune is simply a master storyteller. He creates characters that feel so genuine that you can't help but become emotionally invested in them. I'm a straight male reader, and I found myself completely rooting for Jake. Great stories transcend demographics, and this is proof.
This is one of those rare books that makes you laugh, cry, hope, and ache—all while reminding you what it means to love and be loved. It's a story you'll want to press into the hands of friends and family with the words, "You have to read this."
This is the best book I've read this year. In fact, I'm so confident in it that I'm willing to predict it will still be the best book I read next year.
The greatest compliment I can pay The Stars Look Like Home is this: I wish I had never read it...just so I could experience the joy and wonder of reading it again for the very first time.
I started The Stars Look Like Home convinced that it couldn't possibly measure up to The House in the Cerulean Sea, which I still consider TJ Klune's masterpiece. I'm thrilled to admit how wrong I was. While I still give Cerulean Sea the slightest of edges, this novel comes so close that comparing them almost feels unfair.
First, thank you for the note at the beginning assuring readers that no dog dies in this book. As someone who always worries about that, I appreciated it immensely. Yes, it made one scene a little less suspenseful, but I'd make that trade every single time.
TJ Klune is simply a master storyteller. He creates characters that feel so genuine that you can't help but become emotionally invested in them. I'm a straight male reader, and I found myself completely rooting for Jake. Great stories transcend demographics, and this is proof.
This is one of those rare books that makes you laugh, cry, hope, and ache—all while reminding you what it means to love and be loved. It's a story you'll want to press into the hands of friends and family with the words, "You have to read this."
This is the best book I've read this year. In fact, I'm so confident in it that I'm willing to predict it will still be the best book I read next year.
The greatest compliment I can pay The Stars Look Like Home is this: I wish I had never read it...just so I could experience the joy and wonder of reading it again for the very first time.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC! I am such a fan I couldn't believe I had the opportunity to read this beautiful book early!
Just like all of TJ Klune's other books I have read, the characters all draw you into their world immediately notify only through dialogue but also through their relationships and growth. To think this is even true when the central character is a dog is unbelievable. In Klune's other books I have repeatedly seen characters changed and saved by each other. On e again the characters are flawed and hurt almost beyond repair, but through their relationships they find a new joy for life and living which impacts those around them. Burke doesn't have the easiest road which at first I did not like! However, his voice from puppy hood on is so funny and engaging that it almost feels like he is human. Anyone who has ever been around dogs will feel like I did I bet and think 'yes, I bet that is exactly what the dog is saying!' The love and loyalty that Burke shows his humans is what we all experience from our own dogs- as long as we don't clench our hands in fists. Like his other books, Klune takes you right to the edge of disbelief and has you believing that everything you read could absolutely happen. I also loved the crossover moments that occurred to tie this town to other books. Keep an eye out!! Five solid stars. So honored to read this early!
Just like all of TJ Klune's other books I have read, the characters all draw you into their world immediately notify only through dialogue but also through their relationships and growth. To think this is even true when the central character is a dog is unbelievable. In Klune's other books I have repeatedly seen characters changed and saved by each other. On e again the characters are flawed and hurt almost beyond repair, but through their relationships they find a new joy for life and living which impacts those around them. Burke doesn't have the easiest road which at first I did not like! However, his voice from puppy hood on is so funny and engaging that it almost feels like he is human. Anyone who has ever been around dogs will feel like I did I bet and think 'yes, I bet that is exactly what the dog is saying!' The love and loyalty that Burke shows his humans is what we all experience from our own dogs- as long as we don't clench our hands in fists. Like his other books, Klune takes you right to the edge of disbelief and has you believing that everything you read could absolutely happen. I also loved the crossover moments that occurred to tie this town to other books. Keep an eye out!! Five solid stars. So honored to read this early!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oh how I love the creativity and writing of this author. Every story is unique in the characters and the story arc, yet every story is the same in the hearts of those characters, their relationships, and the overall emotional impact. All Klune’s books have humour and heart, and I always want more when I reach the book end.
This story is through the eyes and mind of a dog. Burke is a joy to read, and if you are a dog owner you will find delight in his thoughts and actions. (You might also find insight into your dog’s actions 😆 and find yourself thinking, ‘Yes, I bet that’s exactly what s/he is saying!) Klune’s books always highlight love - in its many different forms - and how that love is grounding and healing. Jake is Burke’s forever human and both are lost and found in more ways than one.
This story is also about endings and how our worry about the end can cloud our lives during the living part. Every interaction Burke has matters and he learns something of lasting value.
As the story progresses readers will find themselves holding tightly and trusting the author’s promise from the beginning of the book. Have faith - Klune takes us on a journey but their statement proves true.
‘I don’t know why humans live such short lives when dogs are forever.’
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor Publishing Group for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
This story is through the eyes and mind of a dog. Burke is a joy to read, and if you are a dog owner you will find delight in his thoughts and actions. (You might also find insight into your dog’s actions 😆 and find yourself thinking, ‘Yes, I bet that’s exactly what s/he is saying!) Klune’s books always highlight love - in its many different forms - and how that love is grounding and healing. Jake is Burke’s forever human and both are lost and found in more ways than one.
This story is also about endings and how our worry about the end can cloud our lives during the living part. Every interaction Burke has matters and he learns something of lasting value.
As the story progresses readers will find themselves holding tightly and trusting the author’s promise from the beginning of the book. Have faith - Klune takes us on a journey but their statement proves true.
‘I don’t know why humans live such short lives when dogs are forever.’
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor Publishing Group for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
TL;DR: this was cute and charming, but a bit repetitive and at times, a bit too cozy.
The themes in this were great. I'm a bit of a sucker for books about animals, and I loved the cozy vibes and musings on legacy, relationships, death, etc. There are a few callbacks to Under the Whispering Door which was also really fun, as I quite liked that book.
But I also found it a bit far-fetched, and not because of the dog as main character premise. Just the logic was inconsistent at times and Burke wasn't always the most consistent character in regards to personality. I know he's a dog, but the premise should be the same as any protagonist. At times there were unexplained character development points that seemed hard to rectify with the story. I had to really put that aside to fully enjoy it.
Overall, this was fun and cozy, and a good read. Like any TJ Klune novel, there's a good deal of depth to it, and there are morals woven in. I do think some of the morals were a bit over explained, but I did like it.
If you're looking for a cozy and sweet read with an engaging story, this is a great fit. The character development isn't fully consistent and they are a bit flat, in my opinion, but the story and themes make reading it worthwhile nonetheless.
TL;DR: this was cute and charming, but a bit repetitive and at times, a bit too cozy.
The themes in this were great. I'm a bit of a sucker for books about animals, and I loved the cozy vibes and musings on legacy, relationships, death, etc. There are a few callbacks to Under the Whispering Door which was also really fun, as I quite liked that book.
But I also found it a bit far-fetched, and not because of the dog as main character premise. Just the logic was inconsistent at times and Burke wasn't always the most consistent character in regards to personality. I know he's a dog, but the premise should be the same as any protagonist. At times there were unexplained character development points that seemed hard to rectify with the story. I had to really put that aside to fully enjoy it.
Overall, this was fun and cozy, and a good read. Like any TJ Klune novel, there's a good deal of depth to it, and there are morals woven in. I do think some of the morals were a bit over explained, but I did like it.
If you're looking for a cozy and sweet read with an engaging story, this is a great fit. The character development isn't fully consistent and they are a bit flat, in my opinion, but the story and themes make reading it worthwhile nonetheless.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received this ARC from NetGalley.
The Stars Look Like Home is such a beautiful, hopeful story about love, loss, resilience, and finding the people and places that make us feel whole. Burke completely stole my heart. Through every hardship, separation, and new beginning, he continues to find resilience, love fiercely, live fully, and trust that there is still goodness waiting for him around the next corner even when it is hard and it seems like all is lost.
What I loved most about this story is how gently and honestly it explores recovery and belonging. The journey is not linear, and Burke’s path is filled with heartbreak, uncertainty, and change, but also with kindness, connection, and moments of joy that remind us why life is worth embracing so wholeheartedly. He becomes such a beautiful representation of learning to live in the present, to love with everything you have, and to keep going even when the road ahead feels impossible.
This book carries such an important reminder: you are never truly alone, you can do hard things, and even after loss, healing and hope can still find you. Burke’s adventure is emotional, tender, and deeply uplifting — the kind of story that stays with you long after the final page. This book is truly something special.
The Stars Look Like Home is such a beautiful, hopeful story about love, loss, resilience, and finding the people and places that make us feel whole. Burke completely stole my heart. Through every hardship, separation, and new beginning, he continues to find resilience, love fiercely, live fully, and trust that there is still goodness waiting for him around the next corner even when it is hard and it seems like all is lost.
What I loved most about this story is how gently and honestly it explores recovery and belonging. The journey is not linear, and Burke’s path is filled with heartbreak, uncertainty, and change, but also with kindness, connection, and moments of joy that remind us why life is worth embracing so wholeheartedly. He becomes such a beautiful representation of learning to live in the present, to love with everything you have, and to keep going even when the road ahead feels impossible.
This book carries such an important reminder: you are never truly alone, you can do hard things, and even after loss, healing and hope can still find you. Burke’s adventure is emotional, tender, and deeply uplifting — the kind of story that stays with you long after the final page. This book is truly something special.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Stars Look Like Home is a beautiful story told through the eyes of a dog named Burke. As a puppy, Burke is told that dogs are like stars in the sky, a light in the darkness. Burke takes this to mean that he will live forever. As he is shuffled from one home to another, he tries to understand where he fits in the universe and what his purpose in life might be.
TJ Klune has done it again! The characters he creates are unforgettable, and Burke completely stole my heart. I adored him and every side character we meet along the way. Through Burke’s journey, we are reminded that none of us have unlimited time and that every day is precious.
I laughed. I cried. Years ago, I lost my husky to cancer, and Burke’s mannerisms and thoughts brought back so many beautiful memories. The way he observed the world felt so authentic and made me smile through my tears. Especially the squirrels.
This book releases January 12, 2027, and it deserves a spot on your list of first reads for the year.
Thank you to Wildthorn for the eARC via Netgalley. All opinions are my own. And thank you, TJ Klune, for writing yet another beautiful story that will forever stay in my heart and remind me just how precious life can be.
TJ Klune has done it again! The characters he creates are unforgettable, and Burke completely stole my heart. I adored him and every side character we meet along the way. Through Burke’s journey, we are reminded that none of us have unlimited time and that every day is precious.
I laughed. I cried. Years ago, I lost my husky to cancer, and Burke’s mannerisms and thoughts brought back so many beautiful memories. The way he observed the world felt so authentic and made me smile through my tears. Especially the squirrels.
This book releases January 12, 2027, and it deserves a spot on your list of first reads for the year.
Thank you to Wildthorn for the eARC via Netgalley. All opinions are my own. And thank you, TJ Klune, for writing yet another beautiful story that will forever stay in my heart and remind me just how precious life can be.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
TJ Klune always delivers! Once again this time with Burke and his story as a "good boy" and "forever Wolf". Burke's humor and his outgoing boisterous personality truly shine bright and validate the personal narratives I create with my own dogs. This is a beautiful story about how animals (dogs and yes, cats) have a forever spot in our hearts and how we impact theirs, too. I appreciated the way that Klune captured each personality of the dogs throughout "The Stars Look Like Home", and yet again created a world where love is the answer that we all have a place, and a beautiful life to live.
Maybe the most emotional take away is what 'forever' looks like the way that we impact those that we meet along the way. How we are loved, full of life to give, and how we can find love, forgiveness, and support in the most unlikely of animals and people in our lives. I do highly recommend this to any lover of animals. I always recommend Klune to the LGTBQIA+ community. I also think that "The Stars Look Like Home" can be for anyone, please if you're hesitating, don't, just give it a try... you won't be sorry!
Maybe the most emotional take away is what 'forever' looks like the way that we impact those that we meet along the way. How we are loved, full of life to give, and how we can find love, forgiveness, and support in the most unlikely of animals and people in our lives. I do highly recommend this to any lover of animals. I always recommend Klune to the LGTBQIA+ community. I also think that "The Stars Look Like Home" can be for anyone, please if you're hesitating, don't, just give it a try... you won't be sorry!
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