An Enthralling and Understated Narrative
Much like a gripping mystery or crime film, “The Dog Who Could Fly” masterfully builds suspense. Even though the reader is aware of the eventual outcome, the journey of how that outcome is reached is what makes the book so compelling. Damien Lewis employs an understated writing style, characterized by concise sentences and accessible vocabulary. While there are occasional instances of British phrasing that might cause a slight pause, the overall readability is excellent. This is not a children’s book, though its universal themes of love and bravery could certainly lend themselves to a future adaptation for younger audiences. There are hopes that this incredible story will be revisited on the silver screen, as it was once intended by Twentieth Century Fox, to reach a new generation of readers and viewers.
“The Dog Who” is an easy and engaging read, perfect for a relaxed afternoon or a flight, though its suspenseful plot might just keep you wide awake. The book is brimming with elements of suspense, profound love, unwavering loyalty, and unexpected humor. It weaves together a riveting plot with well-developed characters, showcasing the camaraderie of wartime buddies and even introducing a few romantic subplots, with the central romance being the deep connection between dog and man. The war and aviation accounts are presented in a way that doesn’t overwhelm readers, ensuring that even those not well-versed in military history can appreciate the narrative. Veterans may find themselves reminiscing about their own wartime experiences and the special bonds formed with their “battle buddies.”
Antis: The Dog with Nine Lives
The story introduces Antis, a German Shepherd Dog found at just four weeks old in an abandoned house in No Man’s Land by two European airmen shot down by the Nazis. Antis forms an immediate and profound connection with the gunner, Robert Bozdech, a Czech airman fighting for Free France and later for the Royal Air Force. Initially fed chocolates – a practice not recommended for dogs – Antis soon develops into an “early warning system,” sensing danger from both ground and air threats.
Antis repeatedly saves lives, his extraordinary hearing proving invaluable, though humans often struggle to comprehend the canine’s heightened senses. His adventures are nothing short of remarkable: he stows away on a fighter plane, is wounded by flak, is fitted with his own oxygen mask, survives gunshot injuries from an irate sheep farmer, endures a crash landing, and embarks on numerous other breathtaking, and at times humorous, escapades. Alongside these thrilling events, the narrative also includes poignant moments of sadness and foreshadowing that add depth to the story. Even when grounded due to injuries, Antis patiently waits on the runway for his airman’s return, demonstrating an unwavering devotion that continues even when missions lead to unexpected landings at different airports due to weather, injuries, or fuel shortages.
The Heart of the Story: A Love Story Like No Other
Antis is the epitome of the “heart dog” – the canine companion that captures the deepest affections of its owner. Originally published in Britain as “War Dog,” the book’s core narrative is the profound love story between a man and his dog. The preface reveals that the Czech airman never owned another dog after Antis and did not allow his children to have dogs, a detail that might seem extreme until one reads the full account of Antis’s unwavering loyalty and profound love for the man who rescued him as a pup.
The bond between Antis and his human is tested time and again, yet it endures, much like the RAF mascot dog and his person survive the war. The story powerfully illustrates the Czech airman’s realization that in the chaos of war, prioritizing the well-being of his dog is paramount.
The author, Damien Lewis, has a compelling body of work, and “Sergeant Rex” is highly recommended as the next read. Adding “The Dog Who Could Fly” to your reading list is a must.
While the author generally avoids rating books, “The Dog Who Could Fly” is awarded an A minus, with the slight deduction attributed to the preference for the British title “War Dog” over the term “master,” a minor point in an otherwise outstanding narrative.
