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vibingjaren's review
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I have read this book, a Dog's Journey by W. Bruce Cameron two times, and it always makes me teary-eyed. The book's setting takes place sometime after 2014 in the United States. The protagonist is Buddy, who also goes by Molly, Max, and Toby at different points in the book. Buddy is a dog whose sole purpose is to protect and love his human, Ethan. Buddy thinks he has fulfilled his purpose as Ethan has passed on. However, when Buddy is reborn as Molly, he figures out he has a new purpose, to protect Ethan's granddaughter, CJ.
This contemporary novel faces the challenges of growing up. It is also a story of loss, love, and acceptance. I would recommend reading this book with caution as it describes tough topics such as eating disorders, cancer, depression, and other triggering topics. W. Bruce Cameron handles these topics well, even from Molly's point of view. This book, I feel, accurately depicts what it's like to be struggling. While these topics may be hard to read, It's so important to learn about them. It shows the healing process, as well as the fact that you aren't alone. CJ feels like at moments she only has Molly. However, she grows to realize her childhood best friend, Trent, has always been there for her. Trent, who has been madly in love with CJ since they were kids, just wants what's best for her.
This book truly feels like it was written in the eyes of a dog. However, while it's a great book, it isn't without flaws. I felt like the end of the book was rushed. From the end of Max's life to Toby's, I noticed this. I feel like the ending came too fast. It honestly felt like I had started to read a different book. Regardless of its flaws, it's still a great book that I'd rate 5/5 stars. I'm not afraid to admit that as an animal lover, it made me cry.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Cancer, Death, Chronic illness, and Animal death
Moderate: Chronic illness, Grief, Body shaming, Death of parent, Emotional abuse, Suicide attempt, Terminal illness, Gaslighting, Infertility, Medical content, Mental illness, and Toxic relationship
Minor: Fatphobia, Dementia, Car accident, Drug use, Injury/Injury detail, and Pedophilia
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