Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

“That dark, dank barn, with water dripping down the walls and in through the roof. The concrete floor of my kennel, and the farmer beating me with the broom handle...” That was the beginning of Kat’s life, only she was called Luna back then. When she escaped, she roamed the streets, seeking attention, care, food, and water wherever she could get it until one day, someone offered her a loving forever home. It’s incredible to imagine what Kat endured and how loving she could be after such abuse and neglect.

Alyson Sheldrake’s Kat the Dog is a sweet, heart-wrenching, compassionate story of one dog’s journey from an abusive home to a loving forever home. Based on the true story of the author’s own beloved rescued dog, the author has woven a fantastical story of what might have happened. She chose to write Kat’s story in the first-person narrative, allowing the precious furbaby to speak for herself. I love the way the author used this point of view to make an engaging and heartwarming story so realistic. It’s sometimes difficult to realize the intense cruelty still evident in a world where humans continue to abuse and take advantage of animals.

The plot develops from Kat’s (aka Luna's) rough beginnings on a farm and follows the journey as Kat escapes and searches longingly for a safe place to call home. The descriptive narrative is brutally honest at times, but tender and compassionate as well. Like Bruce Cameron’s A Dog’s Purpose, Marshall Saunders's Beautiful Joe, and many others, this story will definitely warm the hearts of dog lovers and many will shed a few tears as they follow Kat’s journey.

Reviewed by Viga Boland for Readers' Favorite

How does a man who admits he “didn’t know the first thing about writing a book or telling stories” reduce this reviewer to tears at the end of his book Pawprints On Our Hearts: How A Few Incredible Dogs Changed One Life Forever? Sure, I’m a dog lover, so it’s only natural I’d respond to a loving tale about dogs. What I didn’t expect from Kerk Murray was that I would not only enjoy a story about those four-legged furry humans who steal our hearts and ultimately become one of the family but that I would be reading such a touching and raw memoir. Having owned four dogs during my lifetime, I smiled as Blaze/Maximus stole Kerk’s sandwich off the table or tore up the house when left alone and how I identified with the grief he felt when Chelsea, Lexi, and little Gunner passed away. Murray’s natural and unpretentious ability to capture his feelings in print made those recollections so immediately relatable.

Equally engaging were his recollections of being bullied as a youngster, his dreams of becoming a “gladiator” in whatever future profession he chose, and the self-loathing he felt when his youthful plans went astray as the result of his actions. But as any good memoir writer should, Kerk Murray gave me a happy ending as he found his true mission in life, thanks to the support of his wife and the lessons he learned about being a fully loving human through his pets Chelsea, Lexi, Maximus, and Spartacus. There is no way I will share more of the details of Murray’s memoir in this review as I want everyone who has ever loved, enjoyed, and lost a pet to read and experience the beauty of Pawprints On Our Hearts for themselves. What I will tell you is that about a year ago, Murray’s experiences with his dogs led him and his wife to sell off the bulk of their worldly possessions to establish the non-profit Lexi’s Legacy Foundation. To date, this foundation has raised over $100,000 and your purchase of his book will help the Murrays continue their work. Along with photos, at the end of the book are links to various other non-profit foundations. I have checked out all of these, along with visiting the author’s website. I hope you will do the same, and if you are a dog lover, please buy this book.

Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

DAWGS: A True Story of Lost Animals and the Kids who Rescued Them by Diane Trull with Meredith Wargo is uplifting, inspiring, and emotional. Diane Trull was an elementary school teacher whose students led her to a profound moment when a picture of dogs in the paper sparked them to ask questions about what will happen to the homeless dogs. The students worried about the fate of the poor animals. This was a concern that led to the turning point in Diane's life and was the first step toward the creation of DAWGS (Dalhart Animal Wellness Group and Sanctuary). The journey taken by Diane and her class as they embarked on creating a shelter is one that inspires hope and compassion. The dedication and determination of Diane and her students created a movement that helped the dogs and cats found abandoned and abused find a forever home. Real stories of the animals they helped along with photographs are included.

This is a book that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired. Their mission statement is to encourage children (not just those participating in the program) to learn about responsibility, commitment, and caring for animals while also establishing inspiration for children (and adults) to take part in their community. The cornerstone of the program is about education, a prevalent theme highlighted throughout to show the various principles and ideas they developed through caring for the animals – such as spaying and neutering. The real stories are at the start of each chapter and provide a personal connection to the animals. Not only is this a real story but it's one that connects to all ages and shows that anyone can become involved in helping animals and their community.

Diane Trull explores the problems they faced such as fighting the council, fundraisers, and people that complained about the smell and noise, and dealing with arguments to find something more meaningful. The honesty in sharing the real struggles they faced helps form a connection. The book also highlights the benefits of having kids help at the shelter and the importance of spaying and neutering a pet. The uplifting story completely encompasses the mission principles of DAWGS which are perseverance, determination, a sense of responsibility, and compassion for all. Animal lovers won't leave the book dry-eyed as DAWGS is an uplifting and honest example of hope and compassion.

Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite

Sue Tidwell and her husband's first memorable experience in Africa involved a species that not many would look forward to seeing in their motherland continent: tsetse flies. Getting attacked by possibly infected tsetse flies was one of the many surprises that lay in store for the two Western travelers in the perilous wilds of Africa. Cries of the Savanna depicts Tidwell's unforgettable, surprise-packed trip to Africa's wilderness and the harsh truths she discovered about nature. Her story includes various challenging and memorable experiences, such as hours of being jostled about in a Land Cruiser, trekking miles through the bushes, dodging elephants and potholes, and more. Coming from an American culture that glamorized nature, as she familiarized herself with Africa's wilderness, laws, and dangers, Tidwell discovered that reality is much less attractive than the way it is portrayed on the internet.

Even as an African, I learned a great deal about Africa from Cries of the Savanna - like the role tourism plays in Africa's economy and why some animal populations must be controlled to maintain balance in nature. Apart from being quite informative, this is an incredibly fun, addictive read. The choice of words and sense of humor brought a smile to my face as I read the book, which also contains stories about the author's upbringing in the US and her growing up with hunters, which makes it easy to connect with her. The book provides a fascinating insight into the reality of living in the wilderness of Africa. It's as entertaining as a thrilling adventure movie, yet brimming with enough information to match a documentary film. If Sue Tidwell takes another trip and writes about them, I'm reading that book as well.

Reviewed by Astrid Iustulin for Readers' Favorite

Life on a farm is something many of us cannot even imagine. There is something special about being in contact with nature and animals, and The Parables of Sunlight by Margaret Dulaney explains it very well. In her splendid book, Dulaney tells how she bought a farm, why at the beginning she did not want to be involved in it, and her relationship with Allie, a wounded horse. Most importantly, she writes her reflections on animals and the afterlife. The Parables of Sunlight is an amazing book, and it is up to nature and animal-loving readers to discover all the depth that it contains.

When I started reading The Parables of Sunlight, I never imagined I would find a book so full of ideas and considerations. Initially, I thought its story focused only on life in the countryside, and I was happy to find out that much more is going on here. I loved to read about Allie, the wounded horse, and I hoped her story would end well. Above all, however, what struck me were Dulaney's reflections on souls and the afterlife. This is something I did not expect to find in a book about life on a farm. I have to say that many of the things Dulaney writes are a great starting point for meditating. Also, they can bring some solace to those who have lost a loved one or animal. The Parables of Sunlight is an inspiration, and I recommend it to thoughtful readers who love animals.

Reviewed by Lesley Jones for Readers' Favorite

As Lorilyn sat at traffic lights in a small town in Florida, she experienced the strangest feeling that made her deeply question her life. This began a journey of self-reflection and a desire to turn away from chasing materialistic objects and instead to follow God's guidance. Follow Lorilyn's journey from childhood to adulthood and the many pivotal events and beloved furry friends that impacted her life in Tails and Purrs for the Heart and Soul. As Lorilyn suffered the trauma of divorce, grief, serious illness, and many of life's challenges, she has been blessed with the companionship and love of her furry helpers. Throughout her life, the joy and blessing of animals have taught her that God is always good and virtuous even if there are times when we doubt his existence or question his motives. Lorilyn's memoir is filled with stories of amazing kindness, bravery, joy, and extraordinary, unexplained incidents. Throughout the Bible, there are stories that reveal how animals have been sent to protect and help us. Tails and Purrs is a perfect example of this.

Tails and Purrs for the Heart and Soul, Lorilyn's memoir, is absolutely captivating, very honest, and comforting. Her accounts of the many animals that have touched her life and brought her so much love and happiness will resound with any animal lover. Gypsy's story sent goosebumps down my spine; her time spent with this wonderful dog and their shared appreciation of nature will bring tears of joy. The concept that animals come into your life when you need them most is so very true. I found Lorilyn and her family a great inspiration as they selflessly rescued, fostered, and adopted so many animals. I loved her daughter's abundant kindness and generosity towards those in need; she had a truly beautiful soul. The vision Lorilyn experienced on the beach was very powerful as she questioned if we can influence our destiny. You will experience a wide range of emotions while reading this memoir, from complete joy and warmth as animals were rescued and nursed back to health to heartbreak as they faced the end of their lives or illness. Peasy's story reminds us to be patient with animals who have experienced trauma or abuse. The two stories that touched me the most profoundly were Faye the Momma cat and Molly the Jack Russell terrier; be prepared to reach for a handkerchief before reading these. Superb read and highly recommended.

Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite

Your Pet, Your Pill: 101 Inspirational Stories About How Pets Lead You to a Happy, Healthy and Successful Life, by Dr. Margit Gabriele Muller, is a lovely, poignant collection of stories showing how pets can change and save lives. Written by a renowned veterinarian, speaker, and animal rights advocate, this book is full of uplifting stories that may help you succeed in life, overcome obstacles, and even lead you to happier times. These stories aren't just related to dogs and cats--which would be fine because like most people, I love them--but the stories contained here range from horses to birds, giving you a more well-rounded picture of the world of pets and their human companions. The author presents the concept of HSH, which stands for Happiness, Success, and Health, and this book illustrates how our pets can play a part in our well-being. The author uses her own anecdotes to illustrate points, from a personal and professional viewpoint. We all know the therapeutic value of pets, but the stories Muller provides are actual examples. Whether the problem is emotional or physical, pets can rescue people. If you know of an emotional support animal or have had a pet nurse you through an emotional time, then you can relate to these stories.

There are 101 stories here, and they are amazing. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry, and some will do both at the same time. Pets are more intuitive than we know, and this book serves to show the healing powers they have. They love unconditionally, and this can inspire us to strive to love others the same way. Besides stories, you'll find research and intriguing information grounded in science. The respect and care that the author shows to animals in this book are palpable, so you know the stories are coming from a genuine place, and many readers feel the same way about pets. Pets can be our teachers, confidants, and so much more. They can be the cure for what ails our bodies and psyches, though, as the author points out, not a substitute for official medical attention. I especially like the chapters on the horse/human connection, and how you can't really change a horse; you just have to let a horse have its own nature. Several images included in the text amplify the stories. If you love animal stories and want to know how they can enrich and impact our lives, Your Pet, Your Pill: 101 Inspirational Stories About How Pets Lead You to a Happy, Healthy and Successful Life, by Dr. Margit Gabriele Muller, is a must-read.

Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

“There is no greater reward than saving a life or making someone else’s life better.” So very true. It’s sad when you read about old dogs being abandoned by their so-called forever families. ‘Put out to pasture’ to die a slow, sometimes painful, and definitely lonely death. No one deserves to die alone, to be dumped with disrespect. Dogs have feelings, and they deserve to live out their last days with dignity and with as much comfort life can offer them. Michele and Jeff Allen started Monkey’s House, a dog hospice and sanctuary, to give a home to those precious fur-babies who have lost theirs due to age and illness (no fault of the dogs). With warm, loving hearts, this couple has adopted over a hundred dogs, sometimes just days, even hours, from euthanasia, as their age and illnesses made them un-adoptable. Caring for so many dogs with so many different health issues is both time-consuming and costly, but for this loving couple, it’s a token of their love for all living creatures (they foster and care for more than just dogs). Every living creature has a right to a warm, safe place and all the love they can absorb.

Jeff Allen’s Where Dogs Go To Live! Inspiring Stories of Hospice Dogs Living in the Moment is the story of Monkey’s House, so named after one special rescue named Monkey. Told with the love and compassion he and his wife share with their adopted four-legged, furry family, these stories are heartwarming and heart-wrenching at the same time. Readers will be wiping tears from their eyes as they read the stories of the dogs who outlived their prognoses, in some cases living years after the few weeks of life promised by a shelter’s resident veterinarian. Love can heal, even if only temporarily; love can also ease the pain of moving toward and across the Rainbow Bridge. This is a moving memoir, a story of love, courage, compassion, and a compelling dedication to care for those that society chose to discard. Powerful and beautiful. Loved the photos!

Reviewed by Cheryl E. Rodriguez for Readers' Favorite

Manny Kagan continues his “42 Encounters” photo journal book series in 42 Encounters with Dog Lovers. Edging close to retirement, Manny Kagan and his wife, Elfa, decide to get a puppy. After researching the pros and cons of different breeds, they decide to purchase a labradoodle. They name the newest member of their family Max. Manny’s goal is to learn how to become Max’s best friend. In this book, Manny shares the trials and the joys of the first forty-two days with Max. Even though Max is the center of attention, Kagan includes forty-two candid street photos of dog owners. Manny’s daily experiences and these photos reveal the special bond between humans and their dogs.

Photographers see the world differently than most; they capture moments in time, rare and unusual sights, making it possible to relive and remember them over and over again. Manny Kagan shares his unique gift in 42 Encounters with Dog Lovers. Dog ownership is the central theme of the book. As he shares his encounters with Max, Kagan repeatedly asks – “why own a dog?” To help solve this mystery, Kagan did his research; he includes many helpful hints from dog experts on training methods and dog behavior. “It seems that puppies don’t need to read books to know what to do. But we humans do.” However, the true answer to the question doesn’t come from mere information, it comes from the heart. Dogs bring joy and laughter, they are loyal and loving; every day with a dog is an adventure.

Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite

Whiskers, Feathers & Fur: Veterinary Tales by Austin Donnelly is a memoir of heartfelt and informative anecdotes about the author's experiences as a veterinarian. Based on his true-life travels, Donnelly recalls an eclectic mix of encounters, from calves to piglets; each story pulsating with his obvious love of the animal kingdom and dedication to the health and well-being of its inhabitants.

Fans of All Creatures Great and Small, or even Dr. Dolittle, will appreciate this book. Donnelly writes from passion, experience, and wisdom, not to mention humor. Whether along a roadside or inside a barn, the author takes you there and makes you feel like you're experiencing it right along with him--an observer of sorts. From the first pages you're hooked by a heartbreaking event, but then Donnelly changes the mood by writing about something lighter and more carefree. Anyone in love with animals knows the cycle of birth, life, and death and he doesn't shy away from the honesty of that cycle. My favorite part was Donnelly's backstory and motivations--the events and emotions that shaped his love for and a career involving animals. It seems that not only does he care about the animals he serves, but he also wants others to care, too.

Anyone who has ever been raised around or lived with animals knows that furry/feathered/whiskered lives can be just as full, fun, sad, and grievous as their human counterparts. The author does a good job of conveying this, and a good job of describing the people in his recollections. Overall, Whiskers, Feathers & Fur: Veterinary Tales by Austin Donnelly is an enjoyable, entertaining book, thanks to the author's accessible, personable style and would make a great movie.