Confessions of a Labradiva: Another Blonde Leading the Blind

Confessions of a Guide Dog #2

by Mark R. Carlson, Saffron

Have you ever wondered how a Guide Dog knows how to lead a blind person? How they protect their owner from harm in crossing busy streets, into stores and restaurants, and even travel on airlines and cruise ships? Here is your chance to find out. Up to a point, that is. This is the long-awaited sequel to the popular and insightful Confessions of a Guide Dog - The Blonde Leading the Blind by Musket.Confessions of a Labradiva - Another Blonde Leading the Blind is the story of Saffron, who began working with Mark Carlson in September of 2012.While Saffron is certainly a well-trained Guide Dog, loving, loyal and devoted, she is not just another blonde. She is a Labradiva, a unique breed of Yellow Labrador.In Confessions of a Labradiva you will follow Saffron , as Mark does, from her birth at Guide Dogs for the Blind, through puppy raising and Guide Dog training and into a remarkable life as a working dog. That might be more than enough for most Guide Dog books, but not for Saffron the Labradiva!Mark Carlson, who did most of the actual writing relates how he, Jane and Musket came to welcome and love Saffron, who was as different from her big brother as could be. Saffron has touched and enriched the lives of people all over the country, been loved by men and women of the Greatest Generation, and has touched hearts with her wagging tail and soft tongue. All she ever ask for in return was belly rubs and treats, especially treats.Confessions of a Labradiva - Another Blonde Leading the Blind is written in the same mischievous and indulgent style as the first book. It is meant to make the reader laugh and cry, shake their heads at the absurdities and smile at the victories.She is cute and comical, sweet and sassy, devoted and a bit devilish. Read on and you’ll see what we mean. It is not your typical Guide Dog book, but then Saffron is not your typical Guide Dog.This is her story...and she is sticking to it!

288 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 15, 2021

Reviews

[Abbie Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love dogs, although I don’t want the responsibility of caring for one. Hence, I love to read about dogs. I’m glad I picked up this sequel after reading Confessions of a Guide Dog, which I reviewed here. Although the second memoir contains some sad moments, it’s still full of Mark Karlson and Musket’s humor and wit, and Saffron’s commentary makes it even funnier.

I especially liked the sketch about Captain ADA taking on a restaurant owner who refuses to let a woman in a wheelchair and her service dog into his establishment. This is a perfect example of the author stressing the importance of advocating and complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act without him getting too preachy. I was fascinated by the mention of Mark Karlson’s other books and his travel and public speaking experiences. The photos and quotes about dogs add a nice touch. If you enjoyed Confessions of a Guide Dog, or even if you haven’t yet read it, Confessions of a Labradiva will get your proverbial tail wagging.

[Khanh · Rating 2 out of 5]

I think I am the wrong audience for this book. Not that I mind reading about other people's experiences with their guide or service dogs. The writing was kind of cheesy, the story was average (for me because I am very familiar with the subject), and... it turned into a book I had playing in the background while I did a bunch of other things, which is not something I do often when reading. Also, I'm not a huge labrador retriever fan, so I didn't really find the story as interesting even if it had been better.

[Leah Conley · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most heartwarming memoirs I've read in a while is "Confessions of a Labradiva." Through humor, bravery, and unwavering love, Mark Carlson shares his life's journey with his guide dogs, Musket and Saffron, allowing us to enter his world. The incredible bond between a man and his dog is only one aspect of this book that shines; another is how it portrays resiliency in the face of change, loss, and disability.

[Carmen Welch · Rating 3 out of 5]

This memoir is essentially a love letter to Jane, to Saffron, to Musket before her, and to all the dogs and people who influence our lives. The candor regarding grief and moving on was particularly appreciated. It's funny without being forced, heartwarming without being sentimental, and most importantly, incredibly human.

[Eva Flores · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is such a lovely sequel to Confessions of a Guide Dog. Mark writes with humor, honesty, and a great affection for his guide dogs. I sobbed when Mark talked about his times of loss, and I laughed at Saffron's "Labradiva" antics. A heartwarming tale of tenacity, cooperation, and unwavering love.

[Susan Cao · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was excited for this sequel after reading the first book about Musket. It was not disappointing. Carlson's narrative combines historical details, firsthand accounts, and sincere homages to the dogs who liberated him. Although there were some depressing parts, particularly those involving Jane, they added to the book's impact.

[Derrick Everett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is not just about dogs; it's also about embracing change and persevering bravely. It was eye-opening to read Mark's thoughts on losing sight but gaining perspective. Saffron's self-assurance and sass go hand in hand with Mark's sincere writing. Anyone who enjoys memoirs and dog lovers should read this book.

[Stephanie Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Confessions of a Labradiva was something I loved! Saffron has a lot of heart, personality, and sass. Carlson skillfully strikes a balance between sad and humorous moments, demonstrating how dogs help us get through the most trying times in life.

[Julia Galiano · Rating 4 out of 5]

A humorous, brave, and dog-wise memoir. The behind-the-scenes look at guide dog training was particularly fascinating to me; it deepened my appreciation for the extraordinary bond that exists between dogs and their handlers.

[Jessica Iverson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dog lovers should read this! It's full of real-life adventures, heartwarming without being overly sentimental, and it honors the happiness that comes with having a dog who is more than just a pet—she's a life partner.

[Carmen Swartz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is both heartbreaking and endearing. It is admirable how devoted Carlson is to his dogs and how they are to him. Saffron's voice is so clear that it seems as though she is narrating her story in person.

[Eugene Cronin · Rating 5 out of 5]

In addition to crying and laughing, I gained a great deal of knowledge about guide dogs. Saffron's "diva" attitude adds sparkle to the entire book, and Carlson's storytelling is genuine and full of thankfulness.

[Brian Millard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't think I could love a dog book more than Marley & Me, but Saffron might be my favorite. She is sassy, playful, and so realistically portrayed that I felt as though I knew her. By the end, I felt like I was a member of Mark and Saffron's family rather than just reading about them.

[Eric Stevenson · Rating 3 out of 5]

The distinct viewpoint is what makes this book stand out. It's not just about a man and his guide dog; it's also about humor, teamwork, and getting by in the dark. I left with a fresh perspective on the relationship between people and dogs as well as a renewed sense of optimism.

[William Paschke · Rating 5 out of 5]

The vividness with which Mark portrays life with blindness as well as his refusal to allow it to define him astounds me. Saffron's feisty personality leaps off the page. You can't help but feel inspired by the warmth with which the handler and guide dog bond is described.

[Briana Brock · Rating 5 out of 5]

The humor that was interspersed throughout was what I enjoyed most. Although Mark doesn't sugarcoat blindness, he does highlight the happiness that dogs bring to his life. Saffron's diva-like text-text interruptions made me laugh. By the end, I thought I knew Saffron and Musket well.

[Laurel Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book kept me turning the pages even though I had no idea what to expect. Mark speaks in a conversational tone, as if he were sharing stories with you over coffee. Smart, sly, and devoted, Saffron's personality shines through the page. A charming blend of dog charm and poignant memoir.

[John Zimmerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The stories about Saffron's early training and Musket's retirement were very heartwarming. In addition to laughing aloud at Mark and his dogs' playful banter, I shed tears during a few of the chapters. This book does a great job of capturing how dogs improve and ease the quality of life.

[Veronica Calhoun · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a touching sequel to Confessions of a Guide Dog! Listening to Mark Carlson's stories is like having a conversation with an old friend about life, love, grief, and Labrador antics. I laughed aloud numerous times when I heard Saffron's "voice." A lovely homage to the human-dog bond.

[Jenifer Eddins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It was charming and full of personality because Mark and Saffron's perspectives alternated. His profound affection and regard for his dogs is evident. By the end, I was both smiling and crying.

[Juanita Crowley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book made me feel everything. Mark Carlson writes about his humor, resiliency, and blindness. The highlight is Saffron's sardonic commentary. You'll enjoy this one as well if you enjoyed Marley and Me.

[Kathy Ford · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's humorous and honest, which is what I found most appealing. Carlson's humor is evident on every page, even though he doesn't sugarcoat the difficulties of being blind. I gained a great deal of knowledge about guide dogs and the amount of love and effort that goes into training them.

[Naomi Colon · Rating 4 out of 5]

The ideal balance of heart and humor. The bond between Saffron and Mark Carlson is admirable. It's clear that these two were destined to meet. Warm, humorous, and conversational, the stories offer insightful observations on daily life.

[Jeanna Parker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unaware that this was a sequel, I picked it up and fell in love right away. The writing is endearing, humorous, and incredibly human. The cutest thing ever are the little side notes ("♡") from saffron. Such a happy occasion to honor dogs and their devotees.

[James Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

An exquisitely written autobiography. You forget you're reading about animals because Carlson gives his dogs so much personality; they're like family. The chapters on Saffron's training and how guide dogs pick up "intelligent disobedience" particularly captivated me. Amazing!

[Andrew Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed harder than I thought I would after reading this book! Carlson has an unrivaled sense of humor about life, dogs, and his blindness. He and Saffron's teasing seems like a sitcom. Beneath the humor, however, lies a heartwarming tale of love and loyalty.

[Levi Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sincere and instructive. Confessions of a Labradiva is one of the most genuine animal memoirs I've ever read. Mark's humility and thankfulness are evident. It's also a great homage to Musket, his first guide dog, and his late wife.

[Shirley Poirier · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a pleasant and reassuring book. Saffron's perspective offers a distinctive twist. You'll leave with a greater appreciation for guide dogs and how much they improve the lives of their owners. Strongly advised for dog owners.

[Connie Hanson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book that honors bravery, wit, and unwavering love. I felt inspired, wept, and laughed. Mark Carlson is a talented storyteller who opens your eyes to new perspectives, and Saffron is a true "Labradiva."

[Melissa Meany · Rating 3 out of 5]

I adored how much individuality Musket and Saffron added to the story. Carlson convinces you that dogs can heal. Anyone who has ever had a furry best friend should definitely check this out.