A Dog's Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron (Book Review 2010-115) SLIGHT SPOILERS

Product Description

This is the remarkable story of one endearing dog’s search for his purpose over the course of several lives. More than just another charming dog story, A Dog’s Purpose touches on the universal quest for an answer to life's most basic question: Why are we here?
Surprised to find himself reborn as a rambunctious golden-haired puppy after a tragically short life as a stray mutt, Bailey’s search for his new life’s meaning leads him into the loving arms of 8-year-old Ethan. During their countless adventures Bailey joyously discovers how to be a good dog.
But this life as a beloved family pet is not the end of Bailey’s journey. Reborn as a puppy yet again, Bailey wonders—will he ever find his purpose?
Heartwarming, insightful, and often laugh-out-loud funny, A Dog's Purpose is not only the emotional and hilarious story of a dog's many lives, but also a dog's-eye commentary on human relationships and the unbreakable bonds between man and man's best friend. This moving and beautifully crafted story teaches us that love never dies, that our true friends are always with us, and that every creature on earth is born with a purpose.   

About the Author

W. Bruce Cameron is the New York Times bestselling author of 8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter which was turned into the hit ABC series. He has twice received the National Society of Newspaper Columinst's award for Best Humor Columnist and his nationally syndicated column is read by over three million readers every week. He lives in California.  

Product Details

• Hardcover: 320 pages
• Publisher: Forge Books (July 6, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0765326264
• ISBN-13: 978-0765326263

SOURCE:  AUTHOR

ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT  -- SLIGHT SPOILERS

This book is one of the best dog books I have ever read and I read almost everything that has a dog on the cover, in the title or description.  A Dog's Purpose is almost a religious experience where the dog in question goes through reincarnation and grows through each lifetime.  I just adored it and found myself near tears as well as feeling so hopeful that this dog did indeed make a difference in the lives of many.  Cameron nailed Toby/Bailey/Ellie/Buddy's voice and developed that voice as the dog "matured" through each life.

The book starts off with the undeveloped voice of Toby and while Toby's life isn't that long, it really sets up the whole point of the book.  I think that some people will have trouble with Toby since this section of the book is really sad and short.  Stick with it because once you start reading about how Toby morphs into Bailey, the action really starts and only gets better.  The next lives will have you turning the pages to see what happens next.  I really hope that the author will write more books like this.  I think you will enjoy this if you like Merrill Markoe and  Garth Stein.