Books & Movies

Here are some nice dog books that are popular with our readers. A Dog Named Slugger The true life story of a dog who changed everything for one woman. For the first time in my life, I didn't need to pretend, I didn't need to be tough: I only needed to be honest. "I have cerebral palsy. I walk funny and my balance is bad. I fall a lot. My hands shake, too. That means I'm not so good at carrying things. And if I drop stuff, sometimes it's hard to just bend down and get it." I waited anxiously for the interviewer's response. She smiled. "It sounds like a service dog could be great for you." So began Leigh Brill's journey toward independence and confidence, all thanks to a trained companion dog named Slugger. The struggling college student and the Labrador with "a coat like sunshine" and a tail that never stopped wagging became an instant team. Together, they transformed a challenge into a triumph. Together, they inspired and educated everyone they met. Now, Leigh honors her friend with the story of their life, together. Brill’s memoir concerns her life near the end of her college years, a time when her cerebral palsy worsened and she began to struggle with everyday tasks. Learning about helper dogs trained to aid people with CP, Leigh applies and is matched with a big, lovable yellow Lab named Slugger. For nearly 10 years, he accompanies Leigh everywhere, helping her walk, picking up dropped pens, even turning on lights and opening heavy doors. With Slugger’s aid, Leigh gradually comes to accept and be able to talk about her disease and eventually finds love and a career. This touching memoir will warm the hearts of dog lovers everywhere; Slugger is the heart and soul of the book, and his dedication, devotion, and love make him an unforgettable character. While the writing is sometimes clunky and Leigh’s family is inexplicably absent, what remains is still irresistible: a sweet story about a woman and her dog. This canine version of Homer’s Odyssey (2009) will appeal equally to readers interested in coping or helping others cope with disabilities. --Jessica Moyer You can get A Dog Named Slugger from Amazon (#ad). The Art of Racing in the Rain Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul (and an obsession with opposable thumbs), he has educated himself by watching television extensively, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver. Through Denny, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition, and he sees that life, like racing, isn't simply about going fast. Using the techniques needed on the race track, one can successfully navigate all of life's ordeals. On the eve of his death, Enzo takes stock of his life, recalling all that he and his family have been through: the sacrifices Denny has made to succeed professionally; the unexpected loss of Eve, Denny's wife; the three-year battle over their daughter, Zoл, whose maternal grandparents pulled every string to gain custody. In the end, despite what he sees as his own limitations, Enzo comes through heroically to preserve the Swift family, holding in his heart the dream that Denny will become a racing champion with Zoл at his side. Having learned what it takes to be a compassionate and successful person, the wise canine can barely wait until his next lifetime, when he is sure he will return as a man. A heart-wrenching but deeply funny and ultimately uplifting story of family, love, loyalty, and hope, The Art of Racing in the Rain is a beautifully crafted and captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life . . . as only a dog could tell it. Get The Art of Racing in the Rain from Amazon (#ad). Be the Pack Leader The New York Times bestseller! Be the Pack Leader is Cesar Millan’s guide for taking your relationship with your dog to a higher level. By developing the skills necessary to become the calm-assertive owner your dog needs in order for him to live a balanced, fulfilled life, you’ll improve your dog’s behavior and your own life as well. Be the Pack Leader is filled with practical tips and techniques, including: • How to use calm-assertive energy in relating to your dog—and to others around you • The truth about behavioral tools, from leashes and harnesses to clickers and e-collars • How to satisfy the needs of your dog’s breed • Success stories from Cesar’s clients, viewers, and fans—including the Grogan family of Marley & Me fame • A quick reference guide of specific, step-by-step procedures to tackling some of the most common dog behavior problems Get Be the Pack Leader from Amazon (#ad). Beth Ostrosky Stern: Oh My Dog Beth Ostrosky Stern, former model, and wife of radio talk show host Howard Stern makeы headlines with her debut book Oh My Dog: How to Choose, Train, Groom, Nurture, Feed, and Care for Your New Best Friend. The Sterns, married for just over a year and a half, are also known for their utmost love to their bulldog girl, Bianka. In Oh My Dog book, Beth Ostrosky Stern has compiled tips and invaluable advice from experts—and from her own experience as dog owner—to soothe concerns, answer questions big and small, and help you and your dog get the most out of your relationship. From the moment you even consider getting a dog, to caring for your old friend when his puppy years are far behind him, Oh My Dog covers every angle of dog ownership, including: - Which breeds would be good match for me? - What do I look for in a vet? - How do I make sure our first night together is as stress-free as possible? - What activities will help me bond with my dog? - Is my dog showing sign of illness? - What should I know before I head to a doggie day care or park? - How do I read pet food labels? - What should I do in an emergency? Beth Ostrosky's book is full of informative sidebars, questionnaires, and to-do lists, useful for anybody who owns a dog or is considering getting one. You can get Oh My Dog now from AMAZON

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