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A Dog of Many Names
Born a runt, Rascal is destined to be an underdog. Despite what looked like an unbreakable bond with the daughter of the family who bred her, Rascal’s devotion is discarded when the mother loses her job, forcing the family into a financial crisis. Bitter and resentful toward a dog they can no longer afford to keep and who was never really wanted, the family throws out the young dog like garbage. Driven out to the country and left roadside, Rascal has nothing but a few pieces of kibble to help her survive the night.
Abandoned and alone, Rascal must learn to fend for herself and embark on a harsh and dangerous journey through wolf terrain in the mountain wilderness of Northern California. Along the way, she meets new families and strangers and is given many names. But will she ever settle with one family and one name? A Dog of Many Names is a courageous story of survival, seen through the eyes of a scared and desperate dog who just wants to love, be loved, and be given one last name.
Abandoned and alone, Rascal must learn to fend for herself and embark on a harsh and dangerous journey through wolf terrain in the mountain wilderness of Northern California. Along the way, she meets new families and strangers and is given many names. But will she ever settle with one family and one name? A Dog of Many Names is a courageous story of survival, seen through the eyes of a scared and desperate dog who just wants to love, be loved, and be given one last name.
- GenresFiction
178 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 6, 2021
3 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
Douglas Green
2 books20 followersDouglas Green is a psychotherapist working in private practice in Los Angeles, specializing in helping kids and teens build lives they can be proud of.
Doug grew up in Kansas City, and has lived in Connecticut and Australia. For over twenty years, he worked in the entertainment world, as a writer, director, producer, editor, actor, assistant director, even truck driver. Plays he wrote and directed have won multiple awards, and he has numerous shorts, ads, and music videos, to his name. In 2000, he released the feature film The Hiding Place, starring Kim Hunter and Timothy Bottoms – a searing look at the effects of Dementia on a family – which has been shown around the world and written up in journals as diverse as Variety and Playboy.
As a writer, Doug has had articles published in the psychological journals Progress, The Therapist, and Connections. He also created, writes, and manages the website www.AskShirelle.com, which gives advice - not from his viewpoint, but from that of a hyperactive, over-eager mutt.
Speaking of whom, the concepts behind the website stem from his upcoming book The Teachings of Shirelle – Life Lessons from a Divine Knucklehead, set for release in November, 2015.
Doug grew up in Kansas City, and has lived in Connecticut and Australia. For over twenty years, he worked in the entertainment world, as a writer, director, producer, editor, actor, assistant director, even truck driver. Plays he wrote and directed have won multiple awards, and he has numerous shorts, ads, and music videos, to his name. In 2000, he released the feature film The Hiding Place, starring Kim Hunter and Timothy Bottoms – a searing look at the effects of Dementia on a family – which has been shown around the world and written up in journals as diverse as Variety and Playboy.
As a writer, Doug has had articles published in the psychological journals Progress, The Therapist, and Connections. He also created, writes, and manages the website www.AskShirelle.com, which gives advice - not from his viewpoint, but from that of a hyperactive, over-eager mutt.
Speaking of whom, the concepts behind the website stem from his upcoming book The Teachings of Shirelle – Life Lessons from a Divine Knucklehead, set for release in November, 2015.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 44 reviews
April 8, 2022
I am at around a 3.15-3.35 for this one because there are a few elements of animal abuse that obviously I did not care for. I probably would not have chosen to read this one if I had known that going in. However, I stuck with it because I just knew there had to be some good to come out of it.
Sweet, little runt of the litter, Rascal, is the only puppy left at the breeder, so they decide to keep her. Once excited to have a companion, the daughter, Angela, soon grows up and starts ignoring this poor puppy. The mother takes her on a car ride, that she gets so excited for, to only be left on the side of the road to fend for herself. It was a hard listen when this sweet baby realizes that she was abandoned and didn't know where to go.
She stays with a few different families, gets a few different names and eventually she gets her happily ever after.
I must say I did have a frown on my face for most of the story ~ heartwarming it definitely is not.
I am glad I listened to the author's note where he explains his journey with rescuing from the shelter.
It was a quick listen and the narration was alright.
*Thanks to Netgalley, Mindbuck Media Audio and the author for the audiobook. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Sweet, little runt of the litter, Rascal, is the only puppy left at the breeder, so they decide to keep her. Once excited to have a companion, the daughter, Angela, soon grows up and starts ignoring this poor puppy. The mother takes her on a car ride, that she gets so excited for, to only be left on the side of the road to fend for herself. It was a hard listen when this sweet baby realizes that she was abandoned and didn't know where to go.
She stays with a few different families, gets a few different names and eventually she gets her happily ever after.
I must say I did have a frown on my face for most of the story ~ heartwarming it definitely is not.
I am glad I listened to the author's note where he explains his journey with rescuing from the shelter.
It was a quick listen and the narration was alright.
*Thanks to Netgalley, Mindbuck Media Audio and the author for the audiobook. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
March 29, 2022
"She realized that no longer would she rather die. Now, she'd rather live. If she didn't run away right now she'd risk being hit again or being caressed. She'd risk being grabbed and thrown or hugged. She"d risk being hated or loved. Being abandoned or protected. Having to let someone in or fight someone who wanted to kill her. Life meant wanting to live and wanting to live meant....
Terrified, she carefully stepped out from the bushes."
I felt that quote in my soul.... Personally.
This is a quick read about a dog's journey from home to home and inbetween; the good the bad and the ugly that she encountered, and her resolve and strength throughout.
I enjoyed the read especially the ending. There are parts of the story that may make some people uncomfortable and I wouldn't recommend it for young children but older children and adults would enjoy.
Terrified, she carefully stepped out from the bushes."
I felt that quote in my soul.... Personally.
This is a quick read about a dog's journey from home to home and inbetween; the good the bad and the ugly that she encountered, and her resolve and strength throughout.
I enjoyed the read especially the ending. There are parts of the story that may make some people uncomfortable and I wouldn't recommend it for young children but older children and adults would enjoy.
June 30, 2021
This story follows the life of one dog, or at least part of her life, as she moves from family to family and also having to survive on her own in the wild. For anyone that is an animal lover, this story will punch you in the gut when you realize some things about one of the "owners" and watch as she works to thrive on her own in the wild.
Rascal (her first name) had a wonderful family and a good life until things go wrong at home and she is forced out. From there it is a journey on learning to fend for herself, learning to trust others, and just trying to survive day to day without a human providing food to her.
This was a quick read but an enjoyable story despite the hardships we watched Rascal (and all her other names) endure. There are many responsible pet owners out there but there are just as many that are not as you will see with the one that names her Ilse. I have rescued two dogs and while one was lucky to have been dumped or lost by an owner, the other had to fend for herself much like Rascal. Trust has to be earned. It takes Rascal a long time to trust again and who would blame her?
Rascal (her first name) had a wonderful family and a good life until things go wrong at home and she is forced out. From there it is a journey on learning to fend for herself, learning to trust others, and just trying to survive day to day without a human providing food to her.
This was a quick read but an enjoyable story despite the hardships we watched Rascal (and all her other names) endure. There are many responsible pet owners out there but there are just as many that are not as you will see with the one that names her Ilse. I have rescued two dogs and while one was lucky to have been dumped or lost by an owner, the other had to fend for herself much like Rascal. Trust has to be earned. It takes Rascal a long time to trust again and who would blame her?
February 5, 2022
An eye-opening tale of a dog’s resilience upon abandonment and her journey of survival on the streets, flitting from human to human. I cried and fumed and cried some more. This was such a heart breaking tale of how careless, disrespectful and utterly ridiculous humans can be to animals. I highly recommend this to everyone just so we can get a different perspective of life and how we can be better people.
February 10, 2022
Ahh, this was a tough one to listen to. This is a fictional account of what one dog goes through in her life on the path to finding her forever home, told from the dog's perspective. The author bases his assumptions on his own rescue dog, though in the end says that he "bought" her from a couple?
I'm not sure who the intended audience is. Backyard breeders who are producing puppies to make a buck? Irresponsible owners? Abusive owners? Those working in rescue? While I won't say this is a bad book, it's not one I would recommend either. Those of us who work or volunteer with rescues don't need more sad tales and the others, I'm not sure this would hit home enough to change their ways (not that I think they'd actually read it). So yes, this pulls at the heartstrings, but I can't think of one person I'd recommend this to.
I'll also note, many people assume every dog in a shelter or rescue has been abused. More often, there is neglect - the dog has been allowed to run loose and not reclaimed or was turned in by the owner when it was no longer "easy" - but not abuse. Having volunteered with a local shelter, many of these dogs were simply not socialized properly. More often than not, they are friendly and trusting, though lacking basic social skills they were never taught.
If you're so inclined, please reach out to your local shelter(s) and see about fostering a homeless animal. They are all desperately in need of good homes to help get these animals ready to find forever homes. You can choose to foster a dog, cat, puppy or kitten(s). There is always a need!
Thanks to Mindbuck Media Audio, Author's Republic, Circuit Breaker Books and NetGalley for the ALC in exchange for my review.
I'm not sure who the intended audience is. Backyard breeders who are producing puppies to make a buck? Irresponsible owners? Abusive owners? Those working in rescue? While I won't say this is a bad book, it's not one I would recommend either. Those of us who work or volunteer with rescues don't need more sad tales and the others, I'm not sure this would hit home enough to change their ways (not that I think they'd actually read it). So yes, this pulls at the heartstrings, but I can't think of one person I'd recommend this to.
I'll also note, many people assume every dog in a shelter or rescue has been abused. More often, there is neglect - the dog has been allowed to run loose and not reclaimed or was turned in by the owner when it was no longer "easy" - but not abuse. Having volunteered with a local shelter, many of these dogs were simply not socialized properly. More often than not, they are friendly and trusting, though lacking basic social skills they were never taught.
If you're so inclined, please reach out to your local shelter(s) and see about fostering a homeless animal. They are all desperately in need of good homes to help get these animals ready to find forever homes. You can choose to foster a dog, cat, puppy or kitten(s). There is always a need!
Thanks to Mindbuck Media Audio, Author's Republic, Circuit Breaker Books and NetGalley for the ALC in exchange for my review.
March 28, 2022
A Dog Of Many Names by Douglas Green is an inspiring yet gut-wrenching story of a dog who is abandoned and has to fend of herself until she meets new people and families and her journey to find herself and a new home continues.
This book elicited so many emotions in me that at one point it got very, very triggering for me. But I had to get through it as I wanted to know what happens with the story of the beautiful dog that Rascal is. Being an animal activist and someone who actively engages in the rescue missions for cats, I am well aware how people abandon their pets and leave them away from home not caring a lick about what they would do or how they'd survive. So it was deeply disturbing for me to read about it but I appreciated the author's honesty because these are facts of life and have to be told to people so that they understand that doing so is not only wrong but also inhumane!
Coming to the book - the writing is great and had a very nice flow and the plot was crafted very carefully. Although it was a difficult read because of the concept and my close relation with the rescuing of animals, I am glad that I read this book. It is very informative and agonisingly real and I honestly think it is a must-read.
You can also read this review on my Book Blog - The Reading Bud: www.thereadingbud.com
This book elicited so many emotions in me that at one point it got very, very triggering for me. But I had to get through it as I wanted to know what happens with the story of the beautiful dog that Rascal is. Being an animal activist and someone who actively engages in the rescue missions for cats, I am well aware how people abandon their pets and leave them away from home not caring a lick about what they would do or how they'd survive. So it was deeply disturbing for me to read about it but I appreciated the author's honesty because these are facts of life and have to be told to people so that they understand that doing so is not only wrong but also inhumane!
Coming to the book - the writing is great and had a very nice flow and the plot was crafted very carefully. Although it was a difficult read because of the concept and my close relation with the rescuing of animals, I am glad that I read this book. It is very informative and agonisingly real and I honestly think it is a must-read.
You can also read this review on my Book Blog - The Reading Bud: www.thereadingbud.com
February 23, 2022
A puppy is born in a home. As the runt of the litter, she spends her days there loving and being loved until she is dumped in the forest because the family cannot afford her upkeep.
From then on, it is a constant battle for survival for Rascal. She learns a lot of things in the forest. She learns to hunt for food, to hide in plain sight, and to attack when troubled.
She is adopted by different people at different stages of her life and given different names. She is scared and untrusting of people. Will she ever get her forever home?
The story, narrated from the dog's POV (third person), is heartbreaking and heartening in equal measure. For every bad incident, there are things that make you believe in humanity. Above all, the story talks about the resilience of a dog.
I liked this book but not only because I love dogs. It was a good book if only a bit short. I listened to the audiobook and loved the narrator too.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
4 stars.
From then on, it is a constant battle for survival for Rascal. She learns a lot of things in the forest. She learns to hunt for food, to hide in plain sight, and to attack when troubled.
She is adopted by different people at different stages of her life and given different names. She is scared and untrusting of people. Will she ever get her forever home?
The story, narrated from the dog's POV (third person), is heartbreaking and heartening in equal measure. For every bad incident, there are things that make you believe in humanity. Above all, the story talks about the resilience of a dog.
I liked this book but not only because I love dogs. It was a good book if only a bit short. I listened to the audiobook and loved the narrator too.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
4 stars.
March 16, 2022
Born the runt of her litter, Rascal continues to live with the humans who owned her mom until financial circumstances lead that family to abandoning her in the country. Over the following months, she learns to fend for herself, is brought into other human homes, and given many different names. Will she ever find a forever home and a forever name?
This book reminds me a lot of the A Dog’s Purpose series. If you like that series, you are likely to like this book, too! The story is mostly told from the point of view of Rascal, although at times it seems to be more from various humans’ point of view; it did not stay consistent. I liked the author’s note at the end, explaining that he actually adopted a dog whose life prior to coming home with the author could potentially have been much like Rascal’s life. Unfortunately, I was not a fan of the narrator of the audiobook, especially the fact that we could sometimes hear her loud inhalations between sentences.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an audio ARC of this book.
This book reminds me a lot of the A Dog’s Purpose series. If you like that series, you are likely to like this book, too! The story is mostly told from the point of view of Rascal, although at times it seems to be more from various humans’ point of view; it did not stay consistent. I liked the author’s note at the end, explaining that he actually adopted a dog whose life prior to coming home with the author could potentially have been much like Rascal’s life. Unfortunately, I was not a fan of the narrator of the audiobook, especially the fact that we could sometimes hear her loud inhalations between sentences.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an audio ARC of this book.
July 13, 2021
If you have a soft spot for animals, especially dogs, this one is sure to pull at your heart strings. We follow one dog, Rascal, who was born the runt of the litter and watch her grow up. She has many names throughout her life as she does not stay with one family, which is not by her choice.
At only a little over 150 pages, this is a quick read, but most of the book made me feel sad due to the harsh circumstances that Rascal lived through. I was angry at basically everyone in this book because Rascal deserved so much more. I remained hopeful that Rascal would find a family to accept her. As a huge dog lover, this read definitely brought me to tears a few times.
Be sure to read the author's note at the end too - I know those are sometimes looked over.
At only a little over 150 pages, this is a quick read, but most of the book made me feel sad due to the harsh circumstances that Rascal lived through. I was angry at basically everyone in this book because Rascal deserved so much more. I remained hopeful that Rascal would find a family to accept her. As a huge dog lover, this read definitely brought me to tears a few times.
Be sure to read the author's note at the end too - I know those are sometimes looked over.
March 2, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this book about a dog’s struggle for survival. My heart broke a little each time she lost a home and had to figure out how to survive in her new situation. This story also demonstrates how important patience and loving care is needed while rehabilitating and gaining the trust of a rescue dog.
February 17, 2022
I love dogs, and was assuming this would be a heartwarming tale of a dog seeking her fur-ever family -- something akin to Lassie Come Home maybe. It didn't quite meet my expectations, but I know there are other readers who will probably like the story better than me. I found it to be rather grim and dark, but of course it has good qualities too.
This is a gritty tale of survival, as our dog heroine is passed to her next owner, to the next, and the next. I gotta hand it to this dog... She is resilient and brave! One of the other things I liked is that at one point in her life, she lives with a Spanish-speaking family. I thought it was awesome that the author added the Spanish dialog into the story for diversity.
I would recommend this book for ages 13 and up. There are some mildly vulgar words and mentions of mature themes, including drinking, drugs, crime, and the dog becoming pregnant. The story mentions frequently about the dog's ancestral instincts, to the point where it seemed almost mystical.
Overall, it's a good story to see how the dog ends up in life. Plus, it's a fairly quick read!
This is a gritty tale of survival, as our dog heroine is passed to her next owner, to the next, and the next. I gotta hand it to this dog... She is resilient and brave! One of the other things I liked is that at one point in her life, she lives with a Spanish-speaking family. I thought it was awesome that the author added the Spanish dialog into the story for diversity.
I would recommend this book for ages 13 and up. There are some mildly vulgar words and mentions of mature themes, including drinking, drugs, crime, and the dog becoming pregnant. The story mentions frequently about the dog's ancestral instincts, to the point where it seemed almost mystical.
Overall, it's a good story to see how the dog ends up in life. Plus, it's a fairly quick read!
February 13, 2022
3.5/5 Stars A Dog of Many Names by Douglas Green
Narrated by Kelly McNair
Run Time: 4 hrs and 17 mins
Summary:
A fictional account of the fears developed by a female rescue German shepherd mix.
Additional Comments:
• Narration is 4, story is 3.
• Performance took a little getting used to because the narrator’s voice was a tad higher pitched than I find soothing and easy to listen to, but she did a nice job overall with the story she was given.
• The perspective narration (story not performance) was inconsistent. For example, it would say something like “the poking place” and then two paragraphs later be like “the veterinarian.” Or like “the hairy-faced man” and “kitchen.” I get it, but the level of sophistication kept jumping around like one of those beans.
• The story started out with the family, stayed with them for a while then switched over to the dog’s perspective and stayed there.
• Content warning: It’s clean-ish, but there was at least one scene description of dogs doing it I definitely could have done without. Some violence. A few scattered curse words
• Overall equal parts charming and annoying.
Conclusion:
If you want to hear a rambling tale about a dog, go for it. It’s like the gritty opposite version of homeward bound. Or the dog version of the foster kid’s crappy life journey to the loving forever home.
*I received a free copy of the audiobook. I have chosen to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.
Narrated by Kelly McNair
Run Time: 4 hrs and 17 mins
Summary:
A fictional account of the fears developed by a female rescue German shepherd mix.
Additional Comments:
• Narration is 4, story is 3.
• Performance took a little getting used to because the narrator’s voice was a tad higher pitched than I find soothing and easy to listen to, but she did a nice job overall with the story she was given.
• The perspective narration (story not performance) was inconsistent. For example, it would say something like “the poking place” and then two paragraphs later be like “the veterinarian.” Or like “the hairy-faced man” and “kitchen.” I get it, but the level of sophistication kept jumping around like one of those beans.
• The story started out with the family, stayed with them for a while then switched over to the dog’s perspective and stayed there.
• Content warning: It’s clean-ish, but there was at least one scene description of dogs doing it I definitely could have done without. Some violence. A few scattered curse words
• Overall equal parts charming and annoying.
Conclusion:
If you want to hear a rambling tale about a dog, go for it. It’s like the gritty opposite version of homeward bound. Or the dog version of the foster kid’s crappy life journey to the loving forever home.
*I received a free copy of the audiobook. I have chosen to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.
June 30, 2021
Fred and Myrna Corbett live in an unpopular part of California and struggle to make ends meet. Their only real asset is their pedigree German Shepherd, Greta. So they breed her, producing puppies that bring them a respectable amount of money annually. When somebody wasn’t looking, Greta became pregnant by some other canine interloper. Rascal was the runt of that litter. She’s a skittish little pup that the owners can’t quite figure out. But their young daughter, Angela, who gave the little puppy it’s name loves her. Rascal’s behavior generally consists of a mixture of excitement and fear. She both relishes and recoils at affection. She hides under flowering bushes in the yard instead of doing normal dog things. But still Angela adores her.
Flash forward a little and the Corbetts, no longer profiting from Greta, are once again falling on hard times. The last thing they need is a dog that’s contributing to their hardship so little rascal is discarded like trash and left to fend for herself.
A Dog of Many Names is about Rascal’s attempts at survival in a sometimes harsh and cruel world. She bounces from place to place and her name changes with each new human she temporarily finds herself with. She’s confused and unsure why she keeps getting mistreated by these humans that seemed to care about her. The adversity is strengthening her and summoning her animal instincts to protect her, and she’s learning how to navigate her harsh reality.
I love animals, and I’m a sucker for a good dog story, especially one featuring a German Shepherd, so I was immediately interested in reading this book. However, I should have paid more attention to the description. I was anticipating more of a Lassie type story, but what I got was very different. Rascal’s quest for survival involved the hunting of innocent animals and violent, brutal and bloody fights with others. Not my thing. I understand the food chain and all that, but hey, everyone has their preferences for reading material.
Overall, the story wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t for me. And admittedly, I did put the book down and almost DNF’d it earlier on before the more violent scenes because my interest waned. I struggled to connect with it. But I decided to pick it back up and finish it since it was a relatively short book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of A Dog of Many Names.
Flash forward a little and the Corbetts, no longer profiting from Greta, are once again falling on hard times. The last thing they need is a dog that’s contributing to their hardship so little rascal is discarded like trash and left to fend for herself.
A Dog of Many Names is about Rascal’s attempts at survival in a sometimes harsh and cruel world. She bounces from place to place and her name changes with each new human she temporarily finds herself with. She’s confused and unsure why she keeps getting mistreated by these humans that seemed to care about her. The adversity is strengthening her and summoning her animal instincts to protect her, and she’s learning how to navigate her harsh reality.
I love animals, and I’m a sucker for a good dog story, especially one featuring a German Shepherd, so I was immediately interested in reading this book. However, I should have paid more attention to the description. I was anticipating more of a Lassie type story, but what I got was very different. Rascal’s quest for survival involved the hunting of innocent animals and violent, brutal and bloody fights with others. Not my thing. I understand the food chain and all that, but hey, everyone has their preferences for reading material.
Overall, the story wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t for me. And admittedly, I did put the book down and almost DNF’d it earlier on before the more violent scenes because my interest waned. I struggled to connect with it. But I decided to pick it back up and finish it since it was a relatively short book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of A Dog of Many Names.
June 16, 2021
This review was written by Elza from https://elzareads.blogspot.com/ Elza is a fluffy white kitten and felt she had to write a review in the form of a letter to the dog of many names:
Dear Rascal/Reina/Ilse/Catnip/Artemis/Ares/Athena,
I am sitting on my Mommy's lap as I'm typing this letter to you. I am not too proud to admit that my bloomers are shaking in fear that you might want to come over for kibbles and cream. Let's just get one thing straight, that is not going to happen. Somehow I don't think you will be as interested in the kibbles as in me.
Okay, now that we have a clear understanding - thank you for sending me your story. I'm also not too proud to admit that it touched me dearly and I had to comfort my crying Mommy more than once.
If you read our about info, you will see that I am also a rescue. But the word is as far as the similarities go. I've never gone without a prepared meal, or a warm blanky, or loving arms for one night in my little life (at least what I can remember). I am aware how fortunate I am and I can honestly imagine how dreadful all those nights had to be for you. And that after you were born with so much love to give.
"All dogs love big, but for Rascal, love stunned."
I think my dog Momma, Lea, understands that. Lea came from a puppy mill. She was adopted by Mommy and Daddy when she was who knows how old. Perhaps about 4 weeks. She's just like you. Love stuns her. But I tell you, she's the best Momma ever. She raised all of us. Yes, I am a cat and she's a dog. You are not confused here.
I really sometimes struggle to understand just how humans can justify all the things they put us animals through. And that after the Big Guy Upstairs specifically gave them an instruction to take care of us. Won't it be perfect justice if there's a place where the roles can simply get reversed? But wait, I am loosing track of my story. Or rather, your story.
I was very glad to read that you at least knew that your gorgeous German Shepard Momma loved you and taught you how to be a good dog. No human or any other living scoundrel can ever take that away from you. Unlike humans, animals inherently stays the same. Even if our name and where we get to sleep have to change.
"Since dogs don't get to choose their lives, she took a breath and relaxed into what she liked about the newness, and let the oldness go, until the time it might return."
How difficult it must have been for you. So many bad things happened to you and you were so young. I'm sure you didn't understand half of what happened and even though you felt that it was all your fault, I can promise you - it wasn't. I know you feel that all those people just left you and they didn't like you anymore. If there wasn't a cat around to tell you that you are a smelly, stupid dog - then it wasn't you. I promise you that. Only a cat is allowed to make a dog feel inferior and not worth much.
We finished your lovely story in one sitting and we had to wake Daddy up to let him know that a wonderful human finally found you and rescued your heart. I think his groans was mostly happy. We love humans like Doug and we honestly hope there really is a place where roles will one day be reversed.
Thank you so much Doug, Tom and Catherine, Wendy, Cindy and all the people who see us and rescue us. We purr you, we bark you, we trumpet you, we roar you. We thank you from the bottoms of our hearts.
Lots of Love,
Elza
Dear Rascal/Reina/Ilse/Catnip/Artemis/Ares/Athena,
I am sitting on my Mommy's lap as I'm typing this letter to you. I am not too proud to admit that my bloomers are shaking in fear that you might want to come over for kibbles and cream. Let's just get one thing straight, that is not going to happen. Somehow I don't think you will be as interested in the kibbles as in me.
Okay, now that we have a clear understanding - thank you for sending me your story. I'm also not too proud to admit that it touched me dearly and I had to comfort my crying Mommy more than once.
If you read our about info, you will see that I am also a rescue. But the word is as far as the similarities go. I've never gone without a prepared meal, or a warm blanky, or loving arms for one night in my little life (at least what I can remember). I am aware how fortunate I am and I can honestly imagine how dreadful all those nights had to be for you. And that after you were born with so much love to give.
"All dogs love big, but for Rascal, love stunned."
I think my dog Momma, Lea, understands that. Lea came from a puppy mill. She was adopted by Mommy and Daddy when she was who knows how old. Perhaps about 4 weeks. She's just like you. Love stuns her. But I tell you, she's the best Momma ever. She raised all of us. Yes, I am a cat and she's a dog. You are not confused here.
I really sometimes struggle to understand just how humans can justify all the things they put us animals through. And that after the Big Guy Upstairs specifically gave them an instruction to take care of us. Won't it be perfect justice if there's a place where the roles can simply get reversed? But wait, I am loosing track of my story. Or rather, your story.
I was very glad to read that you at least knew that your gorgeous German Shepard Momma loved you and taught you how to be a good dog. No human or any other living scoundrel can ever take that away from you. Unlike humans, animals inherently stays the same. Even if our name and where we get to sleep have to change.
"Since dogs don't get to choose their lives, she took a breath and relaxed into what she liked about the newness, and let the oldness go, until the time it might return."
How difficult it must have been for you. So many bad things happened to you and you were so young. I'm sure you didn't understand half of what happened and even though you felt that it was all your fault, I can promise you - it wasn't. I know you feel that all those people just left you and they didn't like you anymore. If there wasn't a cat around to tell you that you are a smelly, stupid dog - then it wasn't you. I promise you that. Only a cat is allowed to make a dog feel inferior and not worth much.
We finished your lovely story in one sitting and we had to wake Daddy up to let him know that a wonderful human finally found you and rescued your heart. I think his groans was mostly happy. We love humans like Doug and we honestly hope there really is a place where roles will one day be reversed.
Thank you so much Doug, Tom and Catherine, Wendy, Cindy and all the people who see us and rescue us. We purr you, we bark you, we trumpet you, we roar you. We thank you from the bottoms of our hearts.
Lots of Love,
Elza
July 31, 2021
I was given a free advanced reader copy (e-ARC) of Douglas Green’s book A Dog of Many Names in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to both the author Douglas and Mindbuck Media for this opportunity.
A Dog of Many Names follows the journey of “Rascal” and her experiences of love, loss and companionship. Due to a number of unfortunate events, Rascal is forced from her family home and must learn to fend for herself to survive. Have your tissues at the ready as Rascal is passed between owners looking for a kind, loving home.
Reading from a dog’s perspective certainly made for an interesting and unique read. As mentioned earlier, it’s a long time since I’ve read a book like this, and I really enjoyed this additional twist to the story. It also allowed the reader to sympathise with Rascal that little bit more, and emotionally connect with her throughout her journey. Admittedly, I did find some parts of the story difficult to read. For example, Rascal temporarily lives with a Spanish-speaking family, and as this section of the book was partly written in Spanish, I did find it confusing as to the reason why Rascal was separated from them. That being said, I enjoyed Green’s style of writing as it was well-written and highlighted the struggles that Rascal experienced.
Overall, I’d rate this book four out of five stars. I enjoyed this book yet felt it was missing something. I would’ve liked to get to know some other characters better, and I also feel that the ending was a little rushed too. Yet, this is a engaging book that really makes you root for Rascal and plead for her to have a happy ending – this dog definitely deserves it! If you’re a dog lover, then this is a book that I highly recommend.
There are elements of this book that some readers may find difficult to read, such as dog-fighting, hunting and violence. It’s a very thought-provoking read that makes you consider the sad realities of many dogs out there. If you’re looking for a book to gift to a dog lover, or a book about dogs, then this is the one for you.
A Dog of Many Names follows the journey of “Rascal” and her experiences of love, loss and companionship. Due to a number of unfortunate events, Rascal is forced from her family home and must learn to fend for herself to survive. Have your tissues at the ready as Rascal is passed between owners looking for a kind, loving home.
Reading from a dog’s perspective certainly made for an interesting and unique read. As mentioned earlier, it’s a long time since I’ve read a book like this, and I really enjoyed this additional twist to the story. It also allowed the reader to sympathise with Rascal that little bit more, and emotionally connect with her throughout her journey. Admittedly, I did find some parts of the story difficult to read. For example, Rascal temporarily lives with a Spanish-speaking family, and as this section of the book was partly written in Spanish, I did find it confusing as to the reason why Rascal was separated from them. That being said, I enjoyed Green’s style of writing as it was well-written and highlighted the struggles that Rascal experienced.
Overall, I’d rate this book four out of five stars. I enjoyed this book yet felt it was missing something. I would’ve liked to get to know some other characters better, and I also feel that the ending was a little rushed too. Yet, this is a engaging book that really makes you root for Rascal and plead for her to have a happy ending – this dog definitely deserves it! If you’re a dog lover, then this is a book that I highly recommend.
There are elements of this book that some readers may find difficult to read, such as dog-fighting, hunting and violence. It’s a very thought-provoking read that makes you consider the sad realities of many dogs out there. If you’re looking for a book to gift to a dog lover, or a book about dogs, then this is the one for you.
August 2, 2021
“A dog is not a thing. A thing is replaceable. A dog is not. A thing is disposable. A dog is not. A thing doesn’t have a heart. A dog’s heart is bigger than any “thing” you can ever own.”
– Elizabeth Parker
A Dog of Many Names tells the story of Rascal, a dog that is abandoned by her family. This book is told from the dog's perspective so we get to know her feelings, fears and thoughts. Spoiler Alert: You will end up emotionally destroyed if you are too empathetic and emotional.
Ever since I saw the cover of this book I knew I would love it. And I loved it. This book is amazing, from the writing to the message we learn at the end of the book. It is a fairly quick and understandable reading, without losing any quality. I loved this book.
I am a person who loves dogs, in fact I have rescued and adopted 16 of them, so reading this book was quite painful for me. I cried while reading almost all the chapters and this book touched my heart in a thousand different ways. I do not understand how it is possible that there are such cruel people who harm animals in that way and do not feel guilty. The detailed descriptions of her appearance, pain, suffering and sadness were so real that it hurt too much.
I found the way in which he so realistically described the life of a stray animal extremely interesting. It is not only hunger and thirst, it is being physically attacked, fighting with other animals, feeling extreme cold and heat. Here in this book, I was able to read a bit of all of this.
I am very grateful to NetGalley for giving me a free advanced reader copy (e–ARC). Having the opportunity to read this book was splendid and I certainly enjoyed this roller coaster of emotions. Thanks!
– Elizabeth Parker
A Dog of Many Names tells the story of Rascal, a dog that is abandoned by her family. This book is told from the dog's perspective so we get to know her feelings, fears and thoughts. Spoiler Alert: You will end up emotionally destroyed if you are too empathetic and emotional.
Ever since I saw the cover of this book I knew I would love it. And I loved it. This book is amazing, from the writing to the message we learn at the end of the book. It is a fairly quick and understandable reading, without losing any quality. I loved this book.
I am a person who loves dogs, in fact I have rescued and adopted 16 of them, so reading this book was quite painful for me. I cried while reading almost all the chapters and this book touched my heart in a thousand different ways. I do not understand how it is possible that there are such cruel people who harm animals in that way and do not feel guilty. The detailed descriptions of her appearance, pain, suffering and sadness were so real that it hurt too much.
I found the way in which he so realistically described the life of a stray animal extremely interesting. It is not only hunger and thirst, it is being physically attacked, fighting with other animals, feeling extreme cold and heat. Here in this book, I was able to read a bit of all of this.
I am very grateful to NetGalley for giving me a free advanced reader copy (e–ARC). Having the opportunity to read this book was splendid and I certainly enjoyed this roller coaster of emotions. Thanks!
July 9, 2021
I received this book from the publisher/author in exchange of an honest review.
HOLY, well, this was a sad/heartbreaking/depressing/can it please be nice again book! I was pissed at so many people, angry at what happened to the dog, and also so sad she had to go through all these crappy things. I am happy I had the chance to read this book. Yes, it made me sad, but it was so well-written and I am happy with a new book from an animal’s POV (which doesn’t always work, but in this case it worked so well).
Meet the puppy we are going to be following and the names she gets. Names from her families but also names of her own as she wanders the streets and woods alone. From being called Rascal to Ilse to Artemis. All sorts of names pop by. It starts with Rascal. A perfect and sweet home, but as her girl (as Rascal likes to call the kid in the family) grows up and tension builds in the family due to money and stress things start to go darker. And that is the start of the story. The start of a Rascal who gets new names, new homes, finds places, tries to hunt. The start of the tears and confusion for both me and Rascal, but also anger from me for all the humans who dared to hurt this adorable and sweet ball of fur.
I mean, hello, I get that you are having stress, I get things got out of hand, but that is no excuse to just throw your puppy on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. Or that guy with the other dogs who seemed to be nice (given the reactions of the vets) but who turned out to be a huge fat bully. A lot of the humans that Rascal meets aren’t nice. I was thankful that she did meet some people, but I could also understand her reaction. She has been damaged by all that happened, all she had to go through.
The story becomes darker and more grim and I just couldn’t stop reading. I just had to know if our puppers would survive. If she would find a place of her own, preferably with a sweet human or a couple of humans. I was just so hoping.
The ending was just beautiful and I was crying so much. The Author’s Note (which I rarely read but this time I was curious) was a perfect addition to the ending/to the book.
I would HIGHLY recommend this book, but be sure to bring tissues. This book will break your heart.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
HOLY, well, this was a sad/heartbreaking/depressing/can it please be nice again book! I was pissed at so many people, angry at what happened to the dog, and also so sad she had to go through all these crappy things. I am happy I had the chance to read this book. Yes, it made me sad, but it was so well-written and I am happy with a new book from an animal’s POV (which doesn’t always work, but in this case it worked so well).
Meet the puppy we are going to be following and the names she gets. Names from her families but also names of her own as she wanders the streets and woods alone. From being called Rascal to Ilse to Artemis. All sorts of names pop by. It starts with Rascal. A perfect and sweet home, but as her girl (as Rascal likes to call the kid in the family) grows up and tension builds in the family due to money and stress things start to go darker. And that is the start of the story. The start of a Rascal who gets new names, new homes, finds places, tries to hunt. The start of the tears and confusion for both me and Rascal, but also anger from me for all the humans who dared to hurt this adorable and sweet ball of fur.
I mean, hello, I get that you are having stress, I get things got out of hand, but that is no excuse to just throw your puppy on the side of the road in the middle of nowhere. Or that guy with the other dogs who seemed to be nice (given the reactions of the vets) but who turned out to be a huge fat bully. A lot of the humans that Rascal meets aren’t nice. I was thankful that she did meet some people, but I could also understand her reaction. She has been damaged by all that happened, all she had to go through.
The story becomes darker and more grim and I just couldn’t stop reading. I just had to know if our puppers would survive. If she would find a place of her own, preferably with a sweet human or a couple of humans. I was just so hoping.
The ending was just beautiful and I was crying so much. The Author’s Note (which I rarely read but this time I was curious) was a perfect addition to the ending/to the book.
I would HIGHLY recommend this book, but be sure to bring tissues. This book will break your heart.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
December 6, 2021
"Not a martyr, but a magical spirit carrying a hidden song"
This quotation is from the Acknowledgments section of the novel, and to me the author has expressed the essence of the dog's being in these words.
Although I am a dog-person, I rarely read books presented from the point of view of the dog. They are either too cute, too brutal, or too anthropomorphic. 'A Dog of Many Names', however, is in a category of its own. Doug Green has seen into the being of Aria; he has acknowledged her brokenness and accepted the bewilderment and fear that lie within. Dogs like Aria carry always the residue of their life experiences; they are ever damaged, but their life of healing is beautiful to witness.
The human characters that Douglas Green brings to this fictionalized story are true to life. Members of the first family are representative of the tendency we have to see dogs as props and commodities. Another family is loving and affectionate, but they are as marginalized and powerless as the dog is. We also have someone who appears to connect with his dogs, but has a hidden side. I grieved for "Ilse" (as she was named then), in her isolation. Then we have the travelers who have no concept of the responsibility one has when one commits to a dog in one's life.
This might not be Aria's biography, but the author creates a story behind her actions with sensitivity, honesty, and respect. I recommend this book to everyone who has any experience with or feeling for dogs. It informs us by insights into the canine view of the world, seen by someone who connects with it; it entertains by lifting the reader to hope.
This quotation is from the Acknowledgments section of the novel, and to me the author has expressed the essence of the dog's being in these words.
Although I am a dog-person, I rarely read books presented from the point of view of the dog. They are either too cute, too brutal, or too anthropomorphic. 'A Dog of Many Names', however, is in a category of its own. Doug Green has seen into the being of Aria; he has acknowledged her brokenness and accepted the bewilderment and fear that lie within. Dogs like Aria carry always the residue of their life experiences; they are ever damaged, but their life of healing is beautiful to witness.
The human characters that Douglas Green brings to this fictionalized story are true to life. Members of the first family are representative of the tendency we have to see dogs as props and commodities. Another family is loving and affectionate, but they are as marginalized and powerless as the dog is. We also have someone who appears to connect with his dogs, but has a hidden side. I grieved for "Ilse" (as she was named then), in her isolation. Then we have the travelers who have no concept of the responsibility one has when one commits to a dog in one's life.
This might not be Aria's biography, but the author creates a story behind her actions with sensitivity, honesty, and respect. I recommend this book to everyone who has any experience with or feeling for dogs. It informs us by insights into the canine view of the world, seen by someone who connects with it; it entertains by lifting the reader to hope.
March 7, 2022
This story made me think of The Miraculous Journey Edward Tulane except this dog, unlike the bunny, didn’t end up back where he started and THANKFULLY.
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Rascal is the runt of the litter beginning life as an underdog. Yet she is living a good life with the daughter of the family who bred her. That is until Rascal’s love and devotion is discarded after the mother loses her job. This incident puts the family into a financial crisis. The mood turns bitter and resentful toward innocent Rascal whom they can no longer afford to keep. And the truth is… they never really wanted her in the first place. The family just throws her away like a bag of garbage. They drive her out into the country and abandon her on the roadside, pouring out a bit of dry food on the ground. Rascal has nothing but a few pieces of kibble to help her survive a life in the wild for which she is unfamiliar and unprepared.
Abandoned and alone, Rascal must learn to fend for herself and embark on a harsh and dangerous journey through the rough terrain in the mountain wilderness of Northern California. Along the way, she is taken in by new families and strangers and is given many different names. But she needs a forever home. Will she ever settle with one family and one name?
This is a bittersweet and courageous story of survival, seen through the eyes of a scared and desperate dog who just wants to love, be loved, and if she could express it to be given one last name.
Narrator was very good for this story.
.
Rascal is the runt of the litter beginning life as an underdog. Yet she is living a good life with the daughter of the family who bred her. That is until Rascal’s love and devotion is discarded after the mother loses her job. This incident puts the family into a financial crisis. The mood turns bitter and resentful toward innocent Rascal whom they can no longer afford to keep. And the truth is… they never really wanted her in the first place. The family just throws her away like a bag of garbage. They drive her out into the country and abandon her on the roadside, pouring out a bit of dry food on the ground. Rascal has nothing but a few pieces of kibble to help her survive a life in the wild for which she is unfamiliar and unprepared.
Abandoned and alone, Rascal must learn to fend for herself and embark on a harsh and dangerous journey through the rough terrain in the mountain wilderness of Northern California. Along the way, she is taken in by new families and strangers and is given many different names. But she needs a forever home. Will she ever settle with one family and one name?
This is a bittersweet and courageous story of survival, seen through the eyes of a scared and desperate dog who just wants to love, be loved, and if she could express it to be given one last name.
Narrator was very good for this story.
July 12, 2021
Rascal was the runt of the litter, devoted to the daughter of the family who bred her. Discarded when the family has a financial crisis, Rascal was thrown away with only a few pieces of kibble to help her survive the night. She had to survive in the mountain wilderness of Northern California, meeting various families that gave her different names. All she wants is one family and one name.
I remember reading books like this when younger, and scenes from those novels still stick in my mind long after I've forgotten the author names or even the title. Sometimes the imagery and the emotion are just so vivid, they leave an imprint, and I remember them now because this book is the same way. The reader knows more about what happens to Rascal at each stage along her journey, from the financial problems of her first family, the illegal status of the second, the potential reasons for wanting to make her fight in the third, and then life in the wild.
She sought to survive, no matter what, and the abuse she lived through left her in fear of people that looked or behaved in similar ways. This book is the author's way of explaining a potential path his dog had taken before she came to him, and he imbued Rascal with the emotions and drive that any main character would have. She's a defender of the less fortunate, having been one herself, and is quite an endearing dog.
I remember reading books like this when younger, and scenes from those novels still stick in my mind long after I've forgotten the author names or even the title. Sometimes the imagery and the emotion are just so vivid, they leave an imprint, and I remember them now because this book is the same way. The reader knows more about what happens to Rascal at each stage along her journey, from the financial problems of her first family, the illegal status of the second, the potential reasons for wanting to make her fight in the third, and then life in the wild.
She sought to survive, no matter what, and the abuse she lived through left her in fear of people that looked or behaved in similar ways. This book is the author's way of explaining a potential path his dog had taken before she came to him, and he imbued Rascal with the emotions and drive that any main character would have. She's a defender of the less fortunate, having been one herself, and is quite an endearing dog.
November 10, 2021
As a writer, Doug Green has entwined his passion for dogs with his deep artistic sensibilities, and in this second book that combo packs a punch. I read “A Dog of Many Names” in one sitting; I had to, because I needed to know what happened next to this sweet, sweet creature. You love her on the first page you meet her because the author beautifully captures her secret interior life. That is the magic in this book. If you have ever observed a dog's infinite small behaviors, Doug Green illuminates them with thought, emotion and connectivity. I was utterly fascinated. We're given access to a dog's inner mind, the drives, fears, and questions a dog might ask while navigating her way through a chaotic and unpredictable day; while surviving the urban wild; while experiencing nature’s plans both internally and externally.
There's a lot packed into this novella, and I loved all of it. It's harrowing at times, and a few chapters are difficult to read because you know the dangers and cruelties our canine heroine encounters are true; they're the travails dogs suffer every day. But the author deftly handles this; it’s heartbreaking but never without hope. Too often, it's the humans who are the threat. But, not always. There are good ones out there, too.
We are lucky as hell that we have dogs as companions, and this novel has deepened my love, respect, and care for them.
There's a lot packed into this novella, and I loved all of it. It's harrowing at times, and a few chapters are difficult to read because you know the dangers and cruelties our canine heroine encounters are true; they're the travails dogs suffer every day. But the author deftly handles this; it’s heartbreaking but never without hope. Too often, it's the humans who are the threat. But, not always. There are good ones out there, too.
We are lucky as hell that we have dogs as companions, and this novel has deepened my love, respect, and care for them.
February 24, 2022
This book shattered my heart into smithereens... The story of an abandoned dog in search of her name and her human...
The people the author created in this book, seen through the eyes of the dog, are forged from the depths of human depravity. And it is truly tragic that this world is filled with so many such people, with little humanity.
The dog in this book... I love her... She's everything beautiful, and brave... resilient, a survivor...
As a dog parent, with an avid interest in the biosociopsychology of dogs, I was quite fascinated with the author's insight about dogs (though some of the thoughts the author attributed to her were a little far fetched)...
This story also touched my heart, because... it is the story of every stray / streetie in India... adopted as a cute puppy, abandoned when they stopped being so cute... it is the story of every illegally bred runt, or over-bred female dog... it just might be the story of my puppy...
I choked up when I heard the author's note... that this was meant to be his dog's fictional biography before she came to him; because like my Batty her black-box before the author adopted her could only be guessed at...
Douglas, I'm so glad Aria found her name, and found you, her human... I'm so glad Aria found love, and care, and acceptance...
The people the author created in this book, seen through the eyes of the dog, are forged from the depths of human depravity. And it is truly tragic that this world is filled with so many such people, with little humanity.
The dog in this book... I love her... She's everything beautiful, and brave... resilient, a survivor...
As a dog parent, with an avid interest in the biosociopsychology of dogs, I was quite fascinated with the author's insight about dogs (though some of the thoughts the author attributed to her were a little far fetched)...
This story also touched my heart, because... it is the story of every stray / streetie in India... adopted as a cute puppy, abandoned when they stopped being so cute... it is the story of every illegally bred runt, or over-bred female dog... it just might be the story of my puppy...
I choked up when I heard the author's note... that this was meant to be his dog's fictional biography before she came to him; because like my Batty her black-box before the author adopted her could only be guessed at...
Douglas, I'm so glad Aria found her name, and found you, her human... I'm so glad Aria found love, and care, and acceptance...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2021
I’d like to thank Kristen at Mindbuck Media for getting in touch with me to review this book.
As a child we had a family dog who I adored. She was a chocolate Labrador called Holly and she sadly passed away when I was 11. When I reached adulthood my husband and I decided to get a dog and then another a few years later. Being such a dog lover I knew that there were points when this book would really affect me and I wasn’t wrong.
Every time Rascal faced a difficulty or was left alone to fend for herself I felt myself cuddling my two pups that little bit tighter. I can never imagine treating any animal in the way Rascal had been treated particularly when she was renamed Ilse. I wanted to sweep in her take her back to my house where she could showered with affection.
What I found brilliant about this story was the author’s ability to tell the tale from the POV of Rascal herself. Douglas Green has written this in such a way that you find it almost realistic but it also makes all the more heart breaking to swallow.
Whilst the story is full of a lot of sadness there is also a lot of hope. Hope that not only would Rascal survive but she’d find someone to love her. How could you not route for Rascal to find her happy ending? The final scene’s absolutely broke me because you could understand why she was so mistrusting of humans and I found myself questioning everyone’s motives.
A Dog of Many Names will tug at your heartstrings and have you reaching for the tissues. Be sure to check out the author’s notes too as they are very interesting.
As a child we had a family dog who I adored. She was a chocolate Labrador called Holly and she sadly passed away when I was 11. When I reached adulthood my husband and I decided to get a dog and then another a few years later. Being such a dog lover I knew that there were points when this book would really affect me and I wasn’t wrong.
Every time Rascal faced a difficulty or was left alone to fend for herself I felt myself cuddling my two pups that little bit tighter. I can never imagine treating any animal in the way Rascal had been treated particularly when she was renamed Ilse. I wanted to sweep in her take her back to my house where she could showered with affection.
What I found brilliant about this story was the author’s ability to tell the tale from the POV of Rascal herself. Douglas Green has written this in such a way that you find it almost realistic but it also makes all the more heart breaking to swallow.
Whilst the story is full of a lot of sadness there is also a lot of hope. Hope that not only would Rascal survive but she’d find someone to love her. How could you not route for Rascal to find her happy ending? The final scene’s absolutely broke me because you could understand why she was so mistrusting of humans and I found myself questioning everyone’s motives.
A Dog of Many Names will tug at your heartstrings and have you reaching for the tissues. Be sure to check out the author’s notes too as they are very interesting.
March 2, 2022
I listened to the audible version of A Dog of Many Names. This was a story about a dog's struggle to find its forever home. There were times in the book that I nearly stopped and walked away from it altogether because the content was upsetting as an animal lover. And if triggers for animal abuse and neglect are an issue for you be warned that this story does contain both. I am, however, glad that I stuck with it despite how distressing it was at points because it was a lovely story overall. If you are a dog lover expect tears, expect anger and expect to be heavily invested in the struggles of this dog.
4 1/2 stars for me. It was a tough read at times for me because it hurt my heart but I would recommend this to anyone who can handle the emotional journey and who loves dogs.
Trigger warning for animal cruelty.
I received this audible book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Spoiler warning below.......
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While I am typically fine with reading a story that does not end happily I have an issue reading anything where the ending is bad for the animal. Be assured this story has a happy ending. But, it is an emotional journey getting there.
4 1/2 stars for me. It was a tough read at times for me because it hurt my heart but I would recommend this to anyone who can handle the emotional journey and who loves dogs.
Trigger warning for animal cruelty.
I received this audible book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Spoiler warning below.......
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While I am typically fine with reading a story that does not end happily I have an issue reading anything where the ending is bad for the animal. Be assured this story has a happy ending. But, it is an emotional journey getting there.
March 28, 2022
I am reviewing the audiobook. I received a copy through NetGalley but this is my totally honest review. Not necessarily unbiased (I am an animal rescuer)but honest. I hated this book. And I loved this book. I hated what this poor dog went through, the horrible way she was treated by the people she met. She thought she had a wonderful home but when economic difficulties hit they took her far from home and abandoned her to survive on her own. My anger and hatred was really strong there! Others tried to help her but she always ended up alone, fearful, hungry, injured. I have seen dogs like her. I have worked with dogs like her. I have adopted dogs like her. The author’s note at the end demonstrates the bond that can exist between man and dog when you are willing to work at it and the fulfillment one can get from animal rescue. Working with shy and fearful dogs and watching them come out of their shells is rewarding beyond belief. A Dog Of Many Names is based on the author’s rescue dog. Thank you Douglas Green for giving her a chance. Kelly McNair did an excellent job narrating this book told largely from the dog’s viewpoint. I loved the book! It left me feeling hope for at least part of humanity.
March 29, 2022
What an amazing book. It was brilliant to read a book from a dogs point of view and was a real roller coaster of a book. I just couldn't put this book down. I listened to the audiobook. I thought the narrator did an excellent job at bringing the story to life and brought through such an amazing sense of atmosphere and tension. You will definitely got through a wide range of emotions while reading this book. Trigger warning there are some very sad times in this book so have the tissues at the ready. I loved the ending of this book it made the story feel so complete and was a really nice way to end such a roller coaster ride. I felt very satisfied reading this book it truly I'd an amazing piece of writing. This fantastic story that is aimed at a young adult audience will be perfect for reader aged 14 to adult. The atmosphere and tension in this book just swept me away and I became very quickly engrossed in the story.
So much praise goes out to the author and publishing team for creating such an amazing book from a very unique angle. I will definitely be looking out for more books by this amazing author.
So much praise goes out to the author and publishing team for creating such an amazing book from a very unique angle. I will definitely be looking out for more books by this amazing author.
April 7, 2022
Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 4
A bit sad, inspiring and it touched my heart.
If you are a dog lover, as I am, parts of this story will break your heart but it was ultimately a great story of the determination to survive despite the odds. “The Dog” was known by many names and found herself in good and bad situations. I’m not sure if I’d have wanted to read this story when I was young. It doesn’t have a sad ending but parts of it were difficult enough for me to experience that I’m not sure I’d want to read it to a tender-hearted child.
Kelly McNair did a fantastic job performing this very touching story. At times I really felt like I was the Dog, living and experiencing all of the good and bad things that happened to her.
A review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley but this did not influence my opinion or rating of the book.
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 4
A bit sad, inspiring and it touched my heart.
If you are a dog lover, as I am, parts of this story will break your heart but it was ultimately a great story of the determination to survive despite the odds. “The Dog” was known by many names and found herself in good and bad situations. I’m not sure if I’d have wanted to read this story when I was young. It doesn’t have a sad ending but parts of it were difficult enough for me to experience that I’m not sure I’d want to read it to a tender-hearted child.
Kelly McNair did a fantastic job performing this very touching story. At times I really felt like I was the Dog, living and experiencing all of the good and bad things that happened to her.
A review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley but this did not influence my opinion or rating of the book.
April 15, 2022
This was a very hard and gut wrenching book to listen to! I struggled with rating it because of the pain it caused me, just thinking of all of the trials that this amazing dog went through. I decided that even though it was tough to hear, it was still a very well written book! I have dreamed for so many years of owning a German Shepherd but my health is too poor! There were so many parts of this book that made me cry and others that helped soothe my aches. This is truly an outstanding dog that weathered many storms in her life.
I definitely have a deeper appreciation for those that rescue and take care of all animals! Thank you!
I'd also like to thank Netgalley, the publisher and Dreamscape media for this ARC audiobook for my honest and voluntary review.
As always, Happy Reading/Listening! 💜📚🎧
I definitely have a deeper appreciation for those that rescue and take care of all animals! Thank you!
I'd also like to thank Netgalley, the publisher and Dreamscape media for this ARC audiobook for my honest and voluntary review.
As always, Happy Reading/Listening! 💜📚🎧
April 17, 2022
I knew going in that parts of this book would disturb me because I am such a dog mom, but I winced through the hard parts and thoroughly enjoyed listening to the story of this brave pup.
I love this story because it reaches into your heartstrings and hopefully will make you feel for the dog with the hardships she faces. Everybody should think twice before hitting a dog, dumping a dog on the back roads because they are an inconvenience. My dachshund is a rescue baby, found in the side of the road with her one live brother and several other siblings that already passed. This story spreads that awareness and I love it for that.
Highly recommend this book to anybody whether you are a dog lover or not. It teaches compassion and a fabulous read!
Thanks to netgalley and circuit breakers books for the free audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
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