Book Title: Marley, A Dog Like No Other
Author Name: John Grogan
Reviewed by TFK Kid Reporter: Alicia Barry
Genre: Non-fiction
What's the basic storyline?
Quite simply, this book is about the joys and challenges of pet ownership. Author John Grogan tells the story of his dog Marley, a golden Labrador retriever, from the time of Marley's adoption as an eight-week-old puppy until his death when he is thirteen years old. Throughout his life Marley brings love, devotion and happiness to his human family. He also keeps them on their toes by devouring everything in sight. Add to that the damage that Marley does during thunderstorms and his perpetual drooling, and there's an interesting story to read. So, whether the reader is enjoying its humor or tenderness, Marley, A Dog Like No Other will provide him/her with plenty of pleasure.
Were the characters believable? What made them believable or unbelievable?
Even though he has poor doggie manners and often behaves badly, Marley is loved by his family. It's the same with us. We may be mischievous or cranky, but our families still love us, too.
Would you recommend this book to kids? Why or why not?
Definitely! Until the final chapters, the story was amusing and kept me wondering what other trouble Marley could possibly get into. His adventures begin as soon as he arrives in his new home as a young puppy: Right away, he makes a mess by trailing toilet paper everywhere. As a result, "the place looked like it had been decorated for Halloween."
Even when he is grown, Marley continues to be a handful. His second try at obedience training (he is dismissed from his first) finally ends successfully. The narrator is proud but admits that it was close: "Marley had passed basic obedience training, ranking seventh in the class. So what if it was a class of eight and the eighth dog was a crazy pit bull?"
Even though the descriptions of Marley's behaviors are entertaining, the best part of the book is the genuine feeling of affection for Marley that comes through the author's writing. On every page, the reader could tell how much the owner cared for Marley and treasured having him as part of his family.
What's not-so-great about the book?
The final chapters that describe Marley's last illness, the decision to put him down, and his burial by his family are filled with sadness.
On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being best), how would you rate this book? Explain.
Marley, A Dog Like No Other gets a 10. You don't have to be a pet owner to enjoy reading about Marley's antics and the caring relationship that his owner had with him.
