I recently received a review copy of the book “Loyal: 38 Inspiring Tales of Bravery, Heroism, and the Devotion of Dogs” by Rebecca Ascher-Walsh. The views and opinions in this post are solely my own.

“Loyal:38 Inspiring Tales of Bravery, Heroism, and the Devotion of Dogs,” is 160 pages of good vibrations. If you love dogs, you’ll be glued to this book from start to finish.

The book includes short stories (1-3 pages each) about dogs who have gone the distance, whether it be as a service dog to a disabled veteran, support system for child victims of sexual abuse or protectors of a species of endangered penguin. One of my favorite stories was about Drago, a Spinone Italiano who worked to comfort children in the wake of 2012’s Sandy Hook school shooting.

The book is an easy read – I finished in three short sessions of 30-40 minutes. But pack the tissue. You’ll likely find yourself a bit misty eyed from time to time. The author does a good job of conveying the strong bond between human and canine in each short story, and in doing so, creating a quick emotional connection for the reader.

The book also has fun facts about dogs sprinkled throughout as well as breed information for some of the featured dogs.

Bottom line: this book is an easy read, you can read it in segments (great for the coffee table), and it has touching stories and great photography.

About Loyal

• Hardcover: 160 pages
• Publisher: National Geographic (March 7, 2017)

This special collection of dog stories and photographs features four-legged heroes who have worked side by side with soldiers, searched the wreckage of natural and man-made disasters, changed families’ lives through emotional support, and administered aid around the world and at home in the United States. Heartwarming photographs and touching anecdotes bring to life thirty-eight caring canines who have served the people who mean the most to them, from a German Shepherd who leads a blind man on his marathon training mission to a belly rub-loving Sheltie who supports at-risk youth in the classroom. For anyone who has experienced the extraordinary affection of a dog, Loyal is a lasting celebration of the joys of canine companionship.

 

Purchase Links

National Geographic | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

About Rebecca Ascher-Walsh

Rebecca Ascher-Walsh is a writer who specializes in celebrity and lifestyle coverage, but who also loves dogs and telling stories about amazing animals. She contributes to many newspapers and national magazines including Entertainment Weekly, Adweek, and the Los Angeles Times. She is a volunteer at a high-kill shelter in Manhattan and a founding director of the Deja Foundation, devoted to funding the medical care and training costs of dogs rescued from high-kill shelters.

Tour Stops

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