There are few books, particularly nonfiction works, that have made me cry. This is one of those few, and the reason I had to give it five stars.
In this memoir, CBS Sunday Morning News correspondent Martha Teichner recalls the bittersweet moments with her new-found friend, Carol Fertig, and her lovable bull terrier, Harry. A mutual friend introduces them to each other, and a strong friendship develops between the two women. Carol has been diagnosed with cancer, however, and it will only be a matter of time before she becomes terminally ill. Desperate to find Harry a loving home, she asks if Martha would be willing to adopt him after she passes away. Martha has her own bull terrier, Minnie, who is initially wary of this new dog in her home. They quickly become friends, however, and inseparable for life.
This is not an easy read. The author recalls the deaths of her family members and other bull terriers, in addition to Carol's decline and eventual death. Terminal illness is a heavy topic, but the author succeeds in discussing it in a beautiful light. She also makes sure to sprinkle moments of humor throughout so that the reader can laugh through the tears.
Heart wrenching and bittersweet, I could recommend this book to any dog lover.
A huge thank you to Celadon Books and Martha Teichner for providing me an advanced copy for review.
In this memoir, CBS Sunday Morning News correspondent Martha Teichner recalls the bittersweet moments with her new-found friend, Carol Fertig, and her lovable bull terrier, Harry. A mutual friend introduces them to each other, and a strong friendship develops between the two women. Carol has been diagnosed with cancer, however, and it will only be a matter of time before she becomes terminally ill. Desperate to find Harry a loving home, she asks if Martha would be willing to adopt him after she passes away. Martha has her own bull terrier, Minnie, who is initially wary of this new dog in her home. They quickly become friends, however, and inseparable for life.
This is not an easy read. The author recalls the deaths of her family members and other bull terriers, in addition to Carol's decline and eventual death. Terminal illness is a heavy topic, but the author succeeds in discussing it in a beautiful light. She also makes sure to sprinkle moments of humor throughout so that the reader can laugh through the tears.
Heart wrenching and bittersweet, I could recommend this book to any dog lover.
A huge thank you to Celadon Books and Martha Teichner for providing me an advanced copy for review.