Dad of Divas' Reviews: Book Review

Monday, April 25, 2011

Book Review - A Dog Named Slugger

About the Book

The book, A Dog Named Slugger by Leigh Brill, is a true story about a woman who, at the height of her Cerebral Palsy symptoms, turned to a service dog organization where she was matched with Slugger, a highly intelligent, devoted and loving Yellow Labrador. The story that follows is not just heart-warming and inspiring, it also promotes a very worthy cause--the Service Dog Industry. (All of Leigh’s proceeds from the book will go to the nonprofit St. Francis Service Dogs organization)

Lovable Labrador Gives Palsy Patient New Lease on Life

"I have cerebral palsy. I walk funny and my balance is bad. I fall a lot. My hands shake, too. That means I'm not so good at carrying things. And if I drop stuff, sometimes it's hard to just bend down and get it." I waited anxiously for the interviewer's response. She smiled. "It sounds like a service dog could be great for you."

So began Leigh Brill's journey toward independence and confidence, all thanks to a trained companion dog named Slugger. The struggling college student and the Labrador with "a coat like sunshine" and a tail that never stopped wagging became an instant team. Together, they transformed a challenge into a triumph, eventually inspiring and educating all whom they met.

Leigh Brill tells the heart-warming story of her life and lovable Yellow Lab in her best-selling memoir, A Dog Named Slugger (ISBN: 978-0-98432565-8) The story begins near the end of Brill’s college years, when her Cerebral Palsy symptoms worsened and, in desperation, she turned to service dogs; canines trained to aid people with disabilities. Leigh was instantly matched with big, lovable Slugger, who would not only pick up dropped pens and open heavy doors, but would pick up Brill’s life and open her mind and heart, helping her to find peace, love and even a career.

The book is written in a fun, easy-to-read style, with Slugger himself leaving the most indelible mark as an unforgettable character. More than just a memoir, A Dog Named Slugger shines a light on the growing Service Dog movement, hopefully leading to more trainers, helper dogs and triumphant “Slugger stories” throughout the country and the world.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Leigh Brill is a writer, speaker, and advocate for people with disabilities. She is actively involved in organizations promoting the work of service dogs. (www.LeighBrill.com)

My Take on the BookThis story was heartwarming. I have seen these amazing dogs in action in the past and was happy to have read the story if this amazing dog. If you love animals or wrk with them this book is one that you will want for your collection!

What I loved about this story was the fact that the author does an amazing job to truly show the reader the love between dog and owner. You will be inspired and motivated and you will leave the reading of this story with a better appreciation for the work that these dogs do as well as the importance of continuing the training of dogs like Slugger into the future.

Outside of the story of the dog, it is also the story of its owner also and the amazing journey that she went through to lead her to Slugger.

As mentioned this story will touch your heart and will make you want to do more to know the people around you.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.