A Dogs Life - 1

Sara Pitts
3rd period
A Dog’s Life – Ann Martin Book Review “I can’t speak for all dogs, not all dogs are alike, and most certainly, not all dogs have the same experiences…” (Martin, Cover). A Dog’s Life, written by Ann Martin is an autobiography about a stray dog named Squirrel. This is a heart wrenching and emotional story that explains the struggles of being a stray dog, alone in the big world. The book also shows the various ways people treat strays. Told from the viewpoint of the dog, could be a new discovery for many pet lovers. Ann Martin is an author of many novels including The Main Street Series, Here Today, A Corner of the Universe, and The Baby-Sitters Club Series. She has also won many book awards for her astonishing books. Squirrel, the stray dog, was born in a barn behind the Merion’s house along with her brother, Bone. Without little human contact they must find ways to survive on their own. They meet many friends throughout their life and must gather food from the garbage to eat. Throughout the story, Squirrel and Bone go on many exciting journeys only to find out they will soon be separated. “…but no Mother, I knew that she was not going to come back at all” (Martin pg. 27). Spoken by Squirrel in a soft voice, knowing her mother wouldn’t return. After being separated from her mom, Squirrel is soon separated by Bone too. She then meets another dog named Moon. During their time together they meet up with different people that teach them brutal lessons along the way. Also, they experience many dangerous events that are in the way of making their lives better. The abuse they take at mercy on a daily basis is shocking and touches the heart of many people. “…and then I watched as George, sweating, yanked Bone by the scruff of his neck and tossed him through the open window of the car” (Martin pg. 52). This shows only the beginning of what strays go through, needing help from humans is what they need but often not what they get. The two of them never give up hope and continue to dream of better lives for both of them. There are many exciting points in this book that makes it interesting to read. The author gives the reader a great idea of what the story will be about by the title of the book. The purpose of this book is to explain the life of a stray and how hard it can be for a dog to survive by itself. The viewpoint from the dog gives a more detailed way of explaining the story. This autobiography is directed towards kids, teens, and young adults. “I knew only that everything was new to me, and that being an independent puppy was difficult.”(Martin pg. 61) is a pleasing quote that touches the heart of any dog owner. Squirrel tries explaining how difficult things can be and how good life is at the same time. The moral of the story is things will be hard in life but never give up. Squirrel learns never to give up hope and that one day things will get better. As an owner of four stray cats, I would recommend this book to anyone. At any age this book could be read and enjoyed tremendously, especially by pet owners. The experience Squirrel and Bone went through should not be happen to any animal. Ann Martin’s novel has touched my heart and many others, hoping that someday all animals will live in peace instead of being unwanted by many stubborn humans. This was a very good book spoken by the dog in first person. “…I have no intention of taking you to a shelter. You’re mine, and I’m yours, and this is our home” (Martin pg. 177). By the end of the story this was the part I was waiting for. Every dog deserves a home and by reading this book I can benefit from it by helping the shelters. I have never read anything like it and I know understand more of what strays go through. You can find this book online at Amazon.com for a reasonable price! Enjoy the book and hope that all animals can soon be cared for.