Title: The Way of the Dog: The Memoirs of Eros, the Metaphysical Dog
Author: Eva A. MacDonnell
Publisher: iUniverse
ISBN: 978-1532059124
Pages: 212
Genre: Philosophy, Humor, Animals
Reviewed by: Jessica Schmidt
Hollywood Book Review
The Way of the Dog: The Memoirs of Eros, the Metaphysical Dog is a whimsical and creative story about the vast Universe told through the perspective of a very inquisitive and smart puppy. Author Eva A. MacDonnell is very imaginative in her approach to this book about the meaning of life. MacDonnell artfully combines dialog and descriptive scenes to make the story come alive and entertains the reader while sharing important life lessons along the way.
MacDonnell writes very well, and the book is a pleasure to read. The characters all have well developed personalities and unique, yet relatable voices. Eros benefits from many different perspectives and teachers readers by example as he explores his ever-expanding world. MacDonnell skillfully simulates a puppy’s first experiences just after birth and creates an interesting tale from the newborn’s perspective, complete with internal dialog of the many questions about what they are experiencing.
As a lifelong animal lover I always have an insatiable curiosity as to how dogs, in particular, think and see the world. This opens me up to enjoy other creative interpretation of a dog’s thought pattern whether told in a scientific fashion or used as an allegory. These techniques made this book so enjoyable to read. I really like the Dog’s Mantra. Using the subject of a golden poodle puppy being born to this world as a character element to exemplify the philosophical and historical aspects of metaphysics is a unique way to bring the complexity of such theories into perspective for an ordinary reading audience. As personification of animal thoughts are needed in most animal-related stories, dogs often do not need to be brought to a human level of logical deductions, as they can be judged by their actions rather than their motivation. Eros’ mother is very wise and attentive to each of her puppys’ gifts and biggest struggles.
It would be interesting to read more books in The Way of the Dog to experience more of Eros’ adventures, and to gain more of the author’s wisdom and reflections about life in the universe. This is a great book for animal lovers of all ages, and of course students of philosophy and metaphysics. It would be a good graduation gift for young adults embarking on their own voyage of discovery, or as a birthday gift. There are also many messages to be assimilated by caretakers of humans, and all living creatures, as we all are our own part of the Universe.