Title: Four Dogs and Their Tales
Author: Marcella Bursey Brooks
Publisher: The Ewings Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-949735-11-6
Pages: 256
Genre: Animal Fiction
Reviewed by: Aaron Washington
Hollywood Book Reviews
Michael Archangelo, Kawdje, Kissy and Topaz enter the World Dog Agility Games in Arizona. With the help of Evan and their other human friends, they demonstrate tremendous resilience and determination even in the face of unexpected occurrences like weddings and puppies. Their journey toward the momentous day is nothing short of inspirational. In the end, in a true demonstration of their bond, they all celebrate the winner with genuine pride.
To tell a story from different perspectives is a feat worthy of commendation. Marcella Bursey Brooks narrates from the dog’s perspective but often changes tact to give the reader a peek through the human characters’ eyes. For example, when Evan and his wife went to get Kissy. The author switched between the two voices ever so effortlessly giving the reader a multidimensional view of the scene. With Kissy strutting her best to be chosen and Essie exclaiming that she had been chosen.
An especially noteworthy element is the character development in this book. Brooks presents traits from all over the board. Despite the distinct differences between the dogs, she provides a detailed and vivid description. She lets the reader understand not just their temperament, but also their heart and how each differs from the other. For example, Kissy is confident and affectionate while Kawdje is reserved and cautious. This is one of the many ways the author personifies the dogs, by drawing parallels between them and human beings.
Through Michael’s story, the author demonstrates the power of love and how trust is built. From vowing never to trust anyone, to allowing Sarah to stand nearby while he ate, to finally fully accepting her love for him.
Brooks’ ability to inject depth into the story and evoke anticipation is a testament to her talent. She creates these deeply moving storylines for each of the dogs and makes the reader conflicted about which one to root for; as when, she reveals that Kissy only entered the competition to keep Kawdje company. The author balances the deeply moving scenes with light-hearted moments, making it the perfect roller coaster. Like going from laughing hysterically to the humans emotionally attributing their friendship to the dogs.
Four Dogs and Their Tales exemplifies the value of family, and the author demonstrates the concept of family in various ways. They all agreed that being part of a family was a blessing more delectable than dessert. A sentiment that was shared even by Michael who had only previously experienced being a part of a family for the first time. Proving, for the umpteenth time, that belonging makes one feel ‘safe and secure’.
If ever there was a warm and fuzzy book, this is it. The book demonstrates great writing, and is written with an obvious passion not just for dogs but for storytelling as an art. Four Dogs and Their Tales will have the reader feeling the energy and intensity of love between the dogs, humans and between the dogs and their humans. Marcella Bursey Brooks will have the reader clutching the book a little tighter every time the dogs express appreciation for each other or each time they cozy up to their humans. It will fill the reader’s heart with love and light. One can enjoy Four Dogs and Their Tales whether they are a dog enthusiast, or simply enjoy well-told stories with rich emotional landscapes.