Solomon: One Dog's Improbable, Two-year, Thousand-mile Journey to Find Home

by Gail Gilmore

One dog. Two years. Three states. Sometimes, the long way home is the only way home.


When a stray dog named Solomon, scheduled for euthanization in a Georgia high-kill shelter, is pulled by an out-of-state rescue and placed in a Maine foster home, everyone hopes he’ll soon find his forever family. But after only a month in his foster home he bolts, beginning an epic two-year journey south through New England.

Traveling solo, Solomon survives by his instincts, wits, and the occasional kindness of an ever-changing cast of humans. Battling hunger and the elements, he navigates highways, rivers, suburban roads, wooded pathways, and active rail tracks - searching, it seems, for something. While animal rescue and dog recovery organizations track him, trying desperately to bring him to safety, he eludes all attempts to secure him. Eventually he settles down in the peninsula town of Hull, Massachusetts, making his home in an abandoned shed. And when he slowly learns to trust a neighborhood family, everyone wonders: Is this family what he’s been searching for all along?

Genres: Dogs, Nonfiction, Animals

196 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2021

About the author

Gail Gilmore is the author of "Solomon: One Dog's Improbable, Two-Year, Thousand-Mile Journey to Find Home" and the memoir "Dog Church." Formerly from the Boston area, she lives in the New Hampshire mountains with her spouse and rescue dog. She is currently working on her first novel.

Reviews

[Emma Lombard · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the author of Dog Church comes another excellent canine story. If you’re a fan of watching dog-rescue videos online, then this book is perfect for you!
It’s apparent Gilmore has an intimate knowledge of dogs because her description of Solomon’s body language lets us into his heart and soul—as clear on the page as though viewing him in real life. Such a talent.
A simply told tale, the reader is not left bogged down with a myriad of description, which perfectly lends itself to the urgency of the story.
The number of humans who invested so much of their time and resources into trying to help Solomon is heartwarming. If only poor Solomon knew they were just trying to help.
Felt very much like the movie, “Homeward Bound—The Incredible Journey” that I watched as a kid.
Thank goodness for the happy ending! Solomon’s tale teaches us that not every missing dog is lost.

[Maria Daversa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful book! Gail Gilmore portrays Solomon's character, a scared and distrustful dog on the run, with grace and respect and lets the reader see the world as Solomon does. It's a dangerous and frightening place for a dog without a home. Although the cast of humans involved is there to rescue him, Solomon doesn't know this, so he does what he knows best when anyone tries to capture him. He runs! An escape artist at heart, he manages to avoid all of their attempts to capture him until one day, he bumps into his forever family and discovers his reason to stop running. I cheered for them both, hoping it was true, that Solomon had finally found the people who would love him for life and quickly turned the pages to find out. Without giving away the ending, the final portion of the book recounts the instant connection between Lisa, her daughter Ella, and Solomon and tugs at the heartstrings as it speaks to the innocent and sacred love that happens between dogs and their persons. Such a great read! This book is not to be missed!

[Cara Achterberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I simply cannot overstate how much I loved this book. It's a beautiful, inspiring true story written by a talented writer whose heart colors every word. I read it in a day because the story was so compelling and I was so invested in this special dog and his journey. Whether you are a dog lover or not, this wonderfully told tale will warm your heart. And if you've ever lost a dog or loved a dog, you'll learn something about the nature of dogs when they are lost and when they are found. Recommend, recommend, recommend!

[Erin Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you have a dog? Do you want a dog? Do you love a dog? Do you adore a dog? Have you been rescued by a dog? If your answer to any of these questions is "YES!" then you absolutely must read Solomon: One Dog's Improbable, Two-Year, Thousand-Mile Journey to Find Home by Gail Gilmore.

This story brought me such joy! It is a non-fiction book but it reads like fiction. Anyone can research a topic and write the facts, but it takes true talent to tell the story in a way that sumberses the reader and places him/her right in the midst of the story and all the emotions that come with it. This is that book. I literally fell in love with Solomon and felt like I became a part of his life and he a part of mine. But do not be fooled by the title. This story is about so much more than just an incredible, intelligent, resourceful dog.

Solomon is a large dog with spots like a cow. His personality, intelligence and resourcefulness are as unique as his coloring. And he is homeless and alone with a bad case of heartworm. Animal Control in Georgia caught him first and through a series of events, he ended up in New England where his astonishing expedition truly begins.

His first foster home is in beautiful Kittery, Maine where Solomon quickly outwits his experienced foster parents and escapes their yard thus starting his journey to find the home his heart desires. Solomon's journey takes two years and he travels a thousand miles from Kittery to Hull Village, Massachusetts. People are drawn to Solomon along his journey and they long to help him, but he outwits even those who are experienced in humanely capturing and recovering stray animals. He is an incredibly intelligent and perceptive dog. Solomon finds himself happily in Hull Village where he slowly and cautiously seeks out his forever home. After failed attempts of recovery and scary forces of nature (Hurricane Sandy), Solomon chooses to stay in Hull Village. The experts understanding dogs that are flight risks are astounded at his choice to stay after humane traps fail to catch him. But perhaps there is no coincidence in the timing of Solomon's arrival in Hull Village nor his choice to stay there.

Welcome Lisa to the story. Solomon finds his way to Lisa's property, and she determinedly tries to help capture Solomon. As the months pass, Lisa, unhappy in her own personal life situation, falls in love with Solomon and envisions him as part of her family. Patience is present and a plan is perceived, and Solomon chooses his family on his own terms. He is rescued into a loving forever home, but more than that, Solomon rescues his family. When Lisa needs love and acceptance, Solomon shows up and she finds fulfillment.

Solomon: One Dog's Improbable, Two-Year, Thousand-Mile Journey to Find Home is a heartwarming true tale of an amazing dog. We see the story unfold from the perspective of humans as well as Solomon himself and the author weaves these transitions together seamlessly. Sometimes we choose a dog, but oftentimes a dog chooses to rescue us and this book is a good reminder that not all wandering dogs are lost. They are simply searching for their perfect forever family.

I do feel like this book could be longer (or perhaps a second book may be written). I want to know more about Solomon's life after he was rescued. We get a small glimpse after he's fully acclimated to his new home of him sledding with his humans, but I desire more. I really feel like I got to know Solomon as I read this book. To be honest, I am going to miss him and wish I could snuggle up to him. But I thoroughly enjoyed this heartwarming story with a happy ending.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kandyce Brink · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced review copy of "Solomon" for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. This book is beautifully written with empathy and sensitivity. I love that it is portrayed from the human and Canine perspective! I found it to be heartwarming, inspiring and uplifting. The book left me with a feeling of happiness and joy, a reaffirmation in kindness, love, belonging and the importance of the journey of discovery. I would highly recommend reading this wonderful book!

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a animal (dog) lover you will love this book!
So well written! I loved the writing style two fold perspective ( human as well as animal).
Brilliant! A steady paced, never a dull moment, page turner!
Enjoyable! Refreshing! Great book!
Read! Read! Read!
I received an ARC free from BookSirens and this is my voluntary honest review.

[Carol Ball · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this fantastic heartwarming book. I went through every emotion possible reading this book from frustration, sadness, horror to understanding and happiness.

The author has written this in a very clever way, whilst you are immersed within the story and how Solomon is “feeling” you never lose sight of the fact that he is a dog.

It highlights the sheer dedication of some rescue groups and made me want to help in some way. Not just giving money and walking away.

I loved how they never gave up and that they allowed the dog to make his own choices in the end. Great insight into animal behaviours. I am now more careful when approaching a strange dog - keeping my tone gentle and not making eye contact immediately.

Great book, well written and easy to read - loved it.

I will be recommending this book to everyone I know dog lover or not.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

For anyone who believes in hope and perseverance through adversity and the spiritual connection between humans and animals, Solomon's story will make your heart soar! This book is written with careful and vivid detail illustrating Solomon's amazing, trying journey, and the dedication of the special folks who were moved by his plight, and Gail is able to capture the essence of Solomon's spirit in her words. An inspirational read about a regal, intelligent dog searching for his family who doesn't give up til he's home. I loved it!

[Joelle Tamraz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is truly a wonderful book. Told from the perspective of both humans and Solomon himself, the story captivated me from the very first pages. Written like a carefully crafted mystery and infused with empathy and grace, the book taught me about dogs and warmed my heart. The deeper message about destiny and the extended search for one’s true home was both moving and compelling. I feel enriched from my reading experience and will remember it for years to come. Now I look forward to the next book from this talented author!

[L. Storms · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you stay up past your bedtime to finish a book, you always know it’s a winner. I love dog stories with happy endings - especially when I know the story is true. Having worked in animal welfare for years, stories like this never fail to touch my heart.

[Pamela Camponescki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Very well written. I volunteered to help hang missing dog posters for Missing Dog Massachusetts. Some of the very posters that I hung help contribute to the rescue of a missing dog named Isa. This book gave me chills.

[Nancy Love Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought Solomon’s story was compelling from start to finish. Gail Gilmore gently takes the reader through Solomon’s amazing journey bravely filling in what his life must’ve been like when humans weren’t around. Her writing is straightforward with descriptions and details that put the reader beside Solomon, and the people he encounters along the way, making the story ring true. I suspect we’ll hear more from Gail Gilmore, and I can’t wait!

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, BookSirens, for the free ARC of this book.

Solomon is an amazing story about an absolutely incredible dog. I’ve read hundreds of stories about truly amazing dogs, but this particular story is in a class by itself. Every dog loving person should read this book!

[Susan Walt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have received this book as an ARC through BookSirens, for an honest review.

Meet Solomon. A large pit bull mix and he is homeless. The first time he got caught was in Rome, Georgia, in 2010. Dogs caught by Animal Control have Georgia law against them. Volunteers have only three days to arrange for adoption before they are euthanized. For Pitbulls, it is even more challenging. Floyd County does not allow the adoption of Pitbulls or any dog resembling one.

Volunteer Ronda Avila finds this unacceptable. She makes it her mission to arrange adoptions for as many dogs as possible. So she uploads a photo of Solomon on a “last-change” site in hopes of finding him a suitable home.

“She sees a tall, handsome dog with a combination of unique markings—a black patch across his side and over his back that resembles a saddle, a black ring around his left eye, black tick marks along the edges of his stand-up ears.” - Gail Gilmore. Solomon (Kindle Locations 68-70). Kindle Edition.

Solomon’s possible home in New York doesn’t work out. But the Underground Railroad pays for his relocation to New York. He finds a foster home with Steve en Carmen Fernandez in Kittery, Maine. But Solomon stays aloof, showing little desire to connect, except when he can play in the show.

The first chance he gets, Solomon escapes!

Thus starts the journey of this remarkable dog. Over two years, Solomon travels from Kittery, Main to Hull Village, Massachusetts. Along the way, we also meet all the gentle hearts who want to recover Solomon and find him his forever home.

But Solomon is too intelligent to get caught, and he finds his forever home by himself and on his terms.

I love how the author tells the story of Solomon and his travels using his point of view. It tells me that she has personal experience with and loves dogs. She provides insight into how he thinks and why he reacts in specific ways. And what he can deduct from scents and how it influences his actions.

It is heartwarming to see how much people care about this dog. They explore all options to ensure his safety and find him a forever home.

I couldn’t find anything that I don’t like about the book. It is tragic that humans taint the reputation of Pitbulls when they use them in dog fights. Many dogs are also left desolate through irresponsible breeding. Many people also abandon them because they are not “cute puppies” anymore.

I hope Solomon’s story will create awareness about the responsibilities of getting a dog. Unlike children who grow up and leave, a dog becomes your responsibility for the rest of his life.

Did you love the TV series, Lassie? And do you like movies like Lady and the Tramp and 101 Dalmations? Then you will enjoy the story of Solomon and his thousand-mile journey to his forever home.

I recommend this book to all dog lovers.

[Teresa Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being a dog person all of my life, I must admit that I approached this book with more than a little trepidation. I have been known to stop reading a book and write an author off my list because they needlessly (in my opinion) killed off a dog. I know that's a bit weird considering I am a die-hard crime/mystery/thriller fan, but that's me. So I worried whether I was going to have the same issue here. Seeing it is a 5-star rating I would say I didn't have any issues at all. This is a touching, heartwarming story filled with great, caring people and one beyond amazing dog. I almost wish I belonged to Solomon along with my four other fur owners. The only issue I had with the whole book and it's a very minor one, is that I wish there had been more pictures of Solomon other than the one on the cover. He is a special boy.

I very much enjoyed Ms. Gilmore's writing style. She kept me intrigued and invested in the story and the sections told from Solomon's point of view made perfect sense and felt like she had some special connection with him so that she knew what was going on in his mind. I will be looking for more of her books to read.

I received a review copy from BookSirens and this is my honest opinion. I would like to thank them and Ms. Gilmore for the opportunity to get to know Solomon.

[Devon · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm definitely not the target audience for this book... I read it because it was a gift to me from my mom.

I don't remember how many times I rolled my eyes because the author constantly wrote, "you can't explain it...you just know," or, "it was meant to be this way all along," or, "there's just something about him." Divine intervention, destiny? Sounded more like a cop out to me. This theme made me feel like from the beginning, the author intended to use Solomon's story to push for this ideology and she was determined to maintain that stance no matter how much more she learned about his journey.

Don't get me wrong, his story is pretty incredible...but the people forcing themselves into Solomon's path seemed to obtain a sense of self-importance by projecting a deeper meaning onto him than what was actually happening. I was a little frustrated when everyone kept assuming they knew what was best for Solomon and got up in his koolaid like some Savior despite the numerous times his actions clearly showed he did not want to be captured. I was glad, however, that what finally brought him home was the acceptance that the choice was up to Solomon. It was his perseverance, instincts, fear, hunger, loneliness, and intelligence that brought him to that door, not the Underhound Railroad or anyone else who thought they knew best.

[Nore Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gail Gilmore is a thoughtful and talented writer and has captured the essence of this remarkable dog, his two year journey and the humans who never gave up on him. Gilmore vivid text move along at a pace that keeps the reader fully engaged and makes it impossible to put this book down. Solomon is a must read for any dog lover, but also for all those whose soul has reverberated with the quest of finding 'home' whether that be a place or an ideal. It’s a story of intellect and grit and of knowing something in your heart that might not be apparent to all those around you. It’s the story of a lonely, but determined journey. You’ll fall in love with this dog, his brave heart and clever mind and perhaps at the end come away with the belief that not every missing dog is lost, that not every goal is out of reach. Great and inspiring read.

[Stefanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

An amazing story about an unique dog. Solomon, so named by the Animal Control who first picked him up, is a stray dog, not keen on living with humans. Although many rescue teams try to find him a good home, he escapes again and again, avoiding the well-meaning recovery situations. But why? Doesn't he want to live with a human family? Or is he on a special mission, trying to find his forever home by himself?

This book is based on the true story of Solomon. The author took great care to follow Solomon's way, filling gaps with descriptions from the dog's point of view, without making him human-like. The story is well written in an easy and touching way. A loving, heartwarming tale about wonderful people and a special dog, who is looking for his forever home.

[Michele Benchouk · Rating 5 out of 5]

For the love of a dog... This book offers a view into the harrowing journey undertaken by Solomon, a young dog traveling from Georgia and through the northeast. I've always wondered how dogs survive on their own. Although fictionalized, this book is supported by numerous Solomon sightings and interactions over the two years he wandered. We see how smart dogs can be and learn something about independence, loneliness, and hope. One of the best lines in the book... "Not all missing dogs are lost". I found myself looking at my own rescue fur baby, Lily, in a different way as I read. This is highly recommended reading for anyone who loves or has loved a dog. You'll be rooting along the whole way.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Djenane Nakhle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gail Gilmore’s Solomon is a captivating and beautifully written book that is difficult to put down. From the first page, I was immersed in the story, drawn in by its depth and emotional impact. Solomon takes the reader on the universal quest for acceptance and belonging, emphasizing the power of love. Gilmore’s exceptional storytelling makes Solomon’s heartwarming thousand-mile journey a reading experience that nourishes both the mind and the heart.

[Melody Loomis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This cat person really loved this dog book! Such a heartwarming story about a stray dog who finally finds his fur-ever home! Reminded me a little bit of the Homeward Bound movie I loved so much as a kid. This is the kind of book that would make a great movie someday. At the end, it made me want to cry tears of joy like a Hallmark movie or something! Animal lovers will enjoy this book!

[Julie Busa · Rating 5 out of 5]

There aren’t enough superlatives to describe how I feel about this story. I tore through the book. It had all of the feels. The author clearly ‘gets’ dogs and told Solomon’s story beautifully.

[intoxicating_reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to @booksirens @gailgilmore7 and @epigraphselfpublishing for a copy of “Solomon: One Dog’s Improbable, Two-Year, One-Thousand Mile Journey to Find Home.”

Solomon is one determined pug to find a home he wants regardless of the amount of time, energy and distance it takes. For over over two years and several states, numerous rescues and caring individual attempt to capture Solomon to ensure his safety and to find him a good home. But Solomon has other things in mind, evading capture and conducting daring escapes to get to the place he knows he truely belongs.

This was a wonderful book. It read much like a novel and I loved how the author showed what Solomon might have been thinking during this whole process. They always say it’s the dog who picks you, not the other way around and I truly believe that. If you don’t, then you just need to read this book.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved the whole book!!!! I have to say that I actually held my breath during one part and was crushed when he escaped again!!!! This dog had amazing skills and determination to find his people on his own terms!!! One quote that stood out for me is "Not every missing dog is lost." I deal more with cat rescue and convincing people that not all cats want to be housecats is something that I am constantly confronted with. Some animals are just happier on their own. What an amazing book!!!! So happy to have been a part of listening to Gail's interview in a FB group Dogs & Books Yappy Hour Pack and then getting to read this book!!!!!

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

For anyone who loves stories of hope and love. Who love stories about rescue, dogs and the under dog.