Bailey has a dog’s penchant for the here and now, although he remembers “before” as well, with no clear vision of the future. Author Cameron embraces this narrative device without apology not only to portray our common – perhaps even realistic – perception of a dog’s thought process, but also to deliver elements of surprise in a refreshing way. There is no guessing what might lie around the next bend.

Bailey lives many lives, from the product of a puppy mill, to that of a stray, to the perfect loving companion for a fun-loving, growing boy, to a search and rescue dog saving lives and more. Although you know this now, I have given nothing away.

There are hardships and loving relationships that will pluck symphonies from your heart stings, again and again. All the while, the story illustrates that the lives (and deaths) of dogs are as unique as those of human beings, and that they too must find their purpose.

The lessons learned are anything but childish. In fact, this book is not always an easy read, sometimes treading dark places that must be worked through with each turn of the page. But these page-turning moments are always met with tremendous reward and well worth your time.