The literary landscape is often as intriguing as the stories it contains, and sometimes, the author’s personal habits become as much a subject of discussion as their work. This review delves into “A Dog’s Promise,” the latest installment in a beloved series, while also offering a candid perspective on the author’s public persona and writing evolution.
Authorial Habits and Perceived Quirks
The author, Bruce, has been observed engaging in behaviors that have become a talking point among dedicated readers. There are anecdotal observations suggesting a preoccupation with his own appearance, specifically attempts to conceal thinning hair. Furthermore, a noticeable shift in his eating habits, involving frequent late-night consumption of cheese and crackers, has been noted. This habit, often involving his dog, Tucker, has led to a playful accusation of “cheese embezzlement” within the household, adding a touch of lighthearted domestic drama to the narrative surrounding the books.
“A Dog’s Promise”: A Deeper Dive
“A Dog’s Promise” presents a narrative of intense emotional depth, centering on Bailey, a dog now serving as an “angel dog” on a farm, tasked with assisting a boy with special needs. The novel adopts a thriller-like pacing, with plot twists that keep readers engaged. A significant evolution in the canine’s point of view is evident; Bailey possesses a mature, old soul, a characteristic attributed to his numerous reincarnations throughout the series. This installment is set in the near future, a logical progression given that the previous book, “A Dog’s Journey,” already advanced the timeline considerably. Within this near-future setting, we see the interconnected lives of Hannah’s daughter, Rachel, now a grandmother, and her son, Chase, who now owns Ethan’s farm.
Bailey’s purpose in this novel is central, a mission even he doesn’t fully comprehend. This mirrors the reader’s own potential uncertainty about the author’s broader intentions beyond his culinary indulgences. Yet, Bailey’s purpose is deemed extraordinarily important, necessitating his return “over the rainbow bridge” by Ethan to fulfill it.
A recurring theme within the series is the author’s tendency to deviate from a fixed formula. “A Dog’s Journey” exhibited a distinct structural departure from “A Dog’s Purpose,” and “A Dog’s Promise” continues this tradition by altering narrative conventions once again. This unpredictability, while potentially disorienting for some, keeps the series fresh and engaging. For those seeking similar heartwarming animal stories, exploring the a dog’s purpose novel series is highly recommended.
A Message from the Author
Bruce himself has addressed some of these reader perceptions directly. He clarifies that he does not consume cheese nightly, nor is he experiencing significant hair loss, and playfully dismisses the notion that the pie was particularly exceptional. He then pivots to a crucial request: pre-ordering “A Dog’s Promise.” He emphasizes the critical role of pre-orders in the current publishing climate, comparing their significance to an opening weekend for a film.
Readers are encouraged to pre-order from any online vendor or their local bookstore. Bruce also announces a series of bookstore visits throughout October, offering opportunities for personalized signings. With the holiday season approaching, he highlights the book as an ideal gift, suggesting personalized editions as a thoughtful option.
Furthermore, Bruce announces a philanthropic initiative: for every pre-order placed at one of the listed stores, he will personally donate 20% of the cover price to Best Friends Animal Society. He expresses gratitude for reader support, underscoring the importance of keeping books alive in the contemporary market.
The author lists several of his upcoming book tour stops, including:
- October 12: Second Star to the Right, Denver, CO
- October 14: Rainy Day Books, Fairway, KS
- October 15: Stevenson Hall, North Central College (hosted by Anderson’s Bookshop), Naperville, IL
- October 16: Elm Street Theater (hosted by Foxtale Book Shoppe), Woodstock, GA
- October 17: Eldersburg Elementary (hosted by A Likely Story), Sykesville, MD
- October 21: Towne Book Center & Café, Collegeville, PA
- October 23: BookPeople, Austin, TX
- October 24: Tattered Cover, Denver, CO
- October 28: Rakestraw Books, Danville, CA
- October 29: Vroman’s Bookstore, Pasadena, CA
This direct engagement from the author, combining personal anecdotes with a call to action and a charitable component, reflects a modern approach to connecting with readers and promoting his work. For those who enjoyed this narrative, exploring other related works like a dog’s way home novel might also be of interest. Additionally, for a unique gifting experience, consider looking into personalised dog story book options. The blend of heartfelt storytelling and authorial transparency makes “A Dog’s Promise” a noteworthy addition to the canine literature genre. Fans of engaging narratives might also find the dog man book story collection captivating.
