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Good Dogs Don't Make It to the South Pole
Told through the eyes of a very grumpy yet lovable mutt, a funny and touching tale of aging, death, friendship, and life that proves sometimes a dog's story is the most human of all.
Tassen has always been a one-man dog. When his human companion, Major Thorkildsen, dies, Tassen and Mrs. Thorkildsen are left alone. Tassen mourns Major by eating too many treats, and Mrs. T by drinking too much. But the two unexpectedly find common ground in researching Roald Amundsen’s expedition to the South Pole led by a pack of intrepid dogs.
But the quiet days Tassen and Mrs. T spend together at the library researching the explorer’s arctic adventure are disrupted by the arrival of her son and daughter in-law. Eager to move in to the Major’s spacious house, they plan to send Mrs. T to a nursing home. As he contemplates his own fate, Tassen shudders to think what might happen to him! Yet Tassen and Mrs. T aren’t about to give up. Inspired by Roald Amundsen and his dogs, this unlikely pair are ready to take on anything life throws at them.
Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole is a darkly comedic and whimsical portrayal of aging and death told through a dog’s friendship with an elderly woman.
Tassen has always been a one-man dog. When his human companion, Major Thorkildsen, dies, Tassen and Mrs. Thorkildsen are left alone. Tassen mourns Major by eating too many treats, and Mrs. T by drinking too much. But the two unexpectedly find common ground in researching Roald Amundsen’s expedition to the South Pole led by a pack of intrepid dogs.
But the quiet days Tassen and Mrs. T spend together at the library researching the explorer’s arctic adventure are disrupted by the arrival of her son and daughter in-law. Eager to move in to the Major’s spacious house, they plan to send Mrs. T to a nursing home. As he contemplates his own fate, Tassen shudders to think what might happen to him! Yet Tassen and Mrs. T aren’t about to give up. Inspired by Roald Amundsen and his dogs, this unlikely pair are ready to take on anything life throws at them.
Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole is a darkly comedic and whimsical portrayal of aging and death told through a dog’s friendship with an elderly woman.
307 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2017
76 people are currently reading
1650 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
June 15, 2020
Tassen was "...the one left over when the rest of the litter is sold. An outcast...the wrong color...sold at half-price to the Major...I'm a one-man dog...I am and will always be the Major's dog...". Major Thorkildsen, a World War II veteran, his wife, and Tassen often hunted together in the Norwegian woods. The cellar was fully supplied with food. Tassen became an overgrown lap dog raised with tenderness, love and plenty of dog treats. Now that the Major has died, "What happens to Mrs. Thorkildsen and me?...I'm a widower dog...". Tassen, as narrator, tells his story.
"The big change comes in small steps". Mrs. Thorkildsen starts watching Dr. Phil on TV. "Neither Dr. Phil nor his patients speak a language known to me... I only speak Norwegian...Mrs. Thorkildsen is kind enough to always translate what the program is about that day". "The Puppy", Mrs. Thorkildsen's son visits. He attempts to do the bidding of "The Bitch", his wife. No way will Mrs. Thorkildsen move out of her digs so "The Puppy","The Bitch" and "Young Puppy" can move in!
Mrs. Thorkildsen is lonely. She drinks. No longer driving a car, she uses a wheelie bag, pulling it behind her, filled with alcoholic beverages purchased at the market. This is not the kind of walk Tassen had in mind. One special day, they go to the Fram Museum. Tassen climbs into the polar ship that sailed from Norway to Antarctica as Norwegian Explorer Roald Amundsen raced to reach the South Pole before Britian's Captain Robert Scott. Tassen sees two Greenland dogs displayed. "It wasn't until the sight of the taxidermied dogs that the gravity of the situation clearly appeared to me...What could [they] have done wrong? Chewed up one slipper too many?"
Mrs. Thorkildsen was a retired librarian. As a child, "with a book under one arm and a short stool under the other...she asked every single person she met on the street: Will you read to me?" Although technically speaking, Tassen did not read or count (other than Me, Me & You, Pack), she was determined to discuss and bring to life Amundsen's journey to the South Pole, highlighting his strength and determination, as well as explaining the plight and ordeal of the Greenland dogs. Mrs. Thorkildsen and Tassen, constant companions, thoroughly engaged in discussions about the polar expedition. Oh, what fascinating dialogue!
"Good Dogs Don't Make It to the South Pole:A Novel" by Hans-Olav Thyvold is the story of a special canine-human friendship that addresses aging. Tassen's philosophical and humorous touch makes for a delightful read as he tries to understand the behavior of us humans!
Thank you HarperCollins Publishers/HarperVia and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
"The big change comes in small steps". Mrs. Thorkildsen starts watching Dr. Phil on TV. "Neither Dr. Phil nor his patients speak a language known to me... I only speak Norwegian...Mrs. Thorkildsen is kind enough to always translate what the program is about that day". "The Puppy", Mrs. Thorkildsen's son visits. He attempts to do the bidding of "The Bitch", his wife. No way will Mrs. Thorkildsen move out of her digs so "The Puppy","The Bitch" and "Young Puppy" can move in!
Mrs. Thorkildsen is lonely. She drinks. No longer driving a car, she uses a wheelie bag, pulling it behind her, filled with alcoholic beverages purchased at the market. This is not the kind of walk Tassen had in mind. One special day, they go to the Fram Museum. Tassen climbs into the polar ship that sailed from Norway to Antarctica as Norwegian Explorer Roald Amundsen raced to reach the South Pole before Britian's Captain Robert Scott. Tassen sees two Greenland dogs displayed. "It wasn't until the sight of the taxidermied dogs that the gravity of the situation clearly appeared to me...What could [they] have done wrong? Chewed up one slipper too many?"
Mrs. Thorkildsen was a retired librarian. As a child, "with a book under one arm and a short stool under the other...she asked every single person she met on the street: Will you read to me?" Although technically speaking, Tassen did not read or count (other than Me, Me & You, Pack), she was determined to discuss and bring to life Amundsen's journey to the South Pole, highlighting his strength and determination, as well as explaining the plight and ordeal of the Greenland dogs. Mrs. Thorkildsen and Tassen, constant companions, thoroughly engaged in discussions about the polar expedition. Oh, what fascinating dialogue!
"Good Dogs Don't Make It to the South Pole:A Novel" by Hans-Olav Thyvold is the story of a special canine-human friendship that addresses aging. Tassen's philosophical and humorous touch makes for a delightful read as he tries to understand the behavior of us humans!
Thank you HarperCollins Publishers/HarperVia and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2020
This lovely book is original in its concept, thought-provoking, and poignant. It is narrated by a unique talking dog named Tassen. Some insights and philosophies were funny and provides one with a new perception of what their pet may be thinking about besides food and walks. You may never view your dog in the same way again. Tassen brings humour to the story as he worries that he may be racist because he dislikes some breeds of dogs and detests a few other animal species. He is especially prejudiced against penguins as he has learned they practice depraved sexual behaviour. Besides Tassen’s hilarious thoughts, there are deep themes of life, old age, diminishing abilities, companionship, rejection, loneliness and death.
Tassen was bought for half price by Major Thorkildsen, judged by his kennel to be unsuitable as a show dog and for breeding. He was considered a good dog and companion by the Major. Tassen takes great pride in being a good dog. After her husband’s death, the elderly Mrs. Thorkildsen is drinking to excess but always regards Tassen with kindness. There is an abundant supply of treats and short walks, mainly to buy liquor which Tassen calls Devil Water.
A highlight of their days together is when she begins to bring Tassen to the public library where she reads to him about the 1911 race to the South Pole which was won by the Norwegian hero, Amundsen. The Englishman Scott was second to reach the destination, and his team perished. Amundsen succeeded because he brought along over 100 northern working dogs. What happened to these valiant dogs was horrifying.
After these visits to the library, Mrs. Thorkildsen always left Tassen outside while she visited the bar next door, and one day an accident occurred.
For some time, Mrs. Thorkildsen’s son (whom Tassen refers to as her Puppy) and his wife(Bitch) have been urging her to move into a Senior’s Residence or a Nursing Home. This is mainly on the insistence of Bitch who wants the house sooner rather than later. With Mrs. Thorkildsen’s declining health, they prevailed. Bitch will not permit her husband, Puppy, to allow Tassen entry to his former home.
The story is open-ended. It could be sad or pleasant and left to the readers’ imagination. In my mind, the conclusion will be a happy one for Tassen, a good dog.
Tassen was bought for half price by Major Thorkildsen, judged by his kennel to be unsuitable as a show dog and for breeding. He was considered a good dog and companion by the Major. Tassen takes great pride in being a good dog. After her husband’s death, the elderly Mrs. Thorkildsen is drinking to excess but always regards Tassen with kindness. There is an abundant supply of treats and short walks, mainly to buy liquor which Tassen calls Devil Water.
A highlight of their days together is when she begins to bring Tassen to the public library where she reads to him about the 1911 race to the South Pole which was won by the Norwegian hero, Amundsen. The Englishman Scott was second to reach the destination, and his team perished. Amundsen succeeded because he brought along over 100 northern working dogs. What happened to these valiant dogs was horrifying.
After these visits to the library, Mrs. Thorkildsen always left Tassen outside while she visited the bar next door, and one day an accident occurred.
For some time, Mrs. Thorkildsen’s son (whom Tassen refers to as her Puppy) and his wife(Bitch) have been urging her to move into a Senior’s Residence or a Nursing Home. This is mainly on the insistence of Bitch who wants the house sooner rather than later. With Mrs. Thorkildsen’s declining health, they prevailed. Bitch will not permit her husband, Puppy, to allow Tassen entry to his former home.
The story is open-ended. It could be sad or pleasant and left to the readers’ imagination. In my mind, the conclusion will be a happy one for Tassen, a good dog.
January 7, 2020
GOOD DOGS DON’T MAKE IT TO THE SOUTH POLE by HANS-OLAV THYVOLD
I ordered this book because it purports to be about Roald Amundsen and Captain Robert F. Scott’s efforts to reach the South Pole and, yes, that does come into it but, the book is all about Tassen, a dog no less. If fact, it’s written by the dog which opens up all sorts of possibilities. I found it very insightful into all aspects of animal behaviour.
The dog is owned by an elderly couple named Thorkildsen (and I wish it was about Smith or such, having to pronounce that name constantly was a distraction) and starts where the husband leaves off. The opening tale woven around the deathbed of Major Thorkildsen was a wonderful lead-in to the rest of the story.
It’s around page 70 plus that it moves onto Roald and you have to get used to the fact that you’re learning from the dog’s point of view. You’ll constantly be sympathetic to the animal who thinks it is always trying to please. Well, until food comes into the scene and then you can forget everything else.
As for the great expeditions well, there are many things I was totally unaware of, just a few of which I’ll bring to light here. Amundsen lied about his expedition – said he was going to the North Pole! Penguins aren’t the lovely loveable creatures you think they are; necrophilia is one notable trait I’m sure you’re unaware of for instance. Amundsen’s expedition went like clockwork because they ate the dogs that pulled their sleds during the journey, a perfectly normal and calculated thing to do apparently. Which brings you to the title of the book.
Mrs. Thorkildsen’s slow decline is something older folk like myself can totally relate to. Her use of liquor (aka Dragon Water) to ease the pain is well documented. However, seen from the dog’s point of view, there’s a constant thread of wry humour that runs through the text. You’ll never look at your pet again without reflecting on this novel I can promise you. They have imagined conversations which constantly reflect the dog’s emotions.
There are also profound pieces of political insight. “Precisely by mucking up and obscuring the whole relationship. The master designates a slave to lord it over his fellow slaves ever so slightly and that’s how the dirty work is done. It’s the oldest trick in the book.” Bring to mind anyone?
Personally, I found it totally entertaining and one of the best reads I’ve had for ages. Informative on so many levels it also has the one ingredient I consider essential – readability.
I ordered this book because it purports to be about Roald Amundsen and Captain Robert F. Scott’s efforts to reach the South Pole and, yes, that does come into it but, the book is all about Tassen, a dog no less. If fact, it’s written by the dog which opens up all sorts of possibilities. I found it very insightful into all aspects of animal behaviour.
The dog is owned by an elderly couple named Thorkildsen (and I wish it was about Smith or such, having to pronounce that name constantly was a distraction) and starts where the husband leaves off. The opening tale woven around the deathbed of Major Thorkildsen was a wonderful lead-in to the rest of the story.
It’s around page 70 plus that it moves onto Roald and you have to get used to the fact that you’re learning from the dog’s point of view. You’ll constantly be sympathetic to the animal who thinks it is always trying to please. Well, until food comes into the scene and then you can forget everything else.
As for the great expeditions well, there are many things I was totally unaware of, just a few of which I’ll bring to light here. Amundsen lied about his expedition – said he was going to the North Pole! Penguins aren’t the lovely loveable creatures you think they are; necrophilia is one notable trait I’m sure you’re unaware of for instance. Amundsen’s expedition went like clockwork because they ate the dogs that pulled their sleds during the journey, a perfectly normal and calculated thing to do apparently. Which brings you to the title of the book.
Mrs. Thorkildsen’s slow decline is something older folk like myself can totally relate to. Her use of liquor (aka Dragon Water) to ease the pain is well documented. However, seen from the dog’s point of view, there’s a constant thread of wry humour that runs through the text. You’ll never look at your pet again without reflecting on this novel I can promise you. They have imagined conversations which constantly reflect the dog’s emotions.
There are also profound pieces of political insight. “Precisely by mucking up and obscuring the whole relationship. The master designates a slave to lord it over his fellow slaves ever so slightly and that’s how the dirty work is done. It’s the oldest trick in the book.” Bring to mind anyone?
Personally, I found it totally entertaining and one of the best reads I’ve had for ages. Informative on so many levels it also has the one ingredient I consider essential – readability.
July 17, 2020
4.5 Stars
This story begins as the end of Major Thorkildsen’s life is becoming more apparent, as though death is hovering above them, awaiting the moment. Tassen, the Major’s faithful companion notes the scent in the air as Mrs. Thorkildsen lifts Tassen onto the Major’s bed, where he notes the smell of the pain that has been inside the Major for a while now. As Tassen lays beside him, he finds himself reminiscing on a rhyme the Major taught him when he was still a young pup, eventually realizing after several tests that it was, in fact, true.
The reminiscing goes back to the day when the Major first met Tassen, and brings him home to live with him, Tassen’s days of puppyhood, but doesn’t dwell in those days. It gives us a small idea of how close he was with the Major until the end. The Major’s end, that is. And after that, for a while, it is just Tassen and Mrs. T., with periodic, rather unwelcome visits by the Thorkildsen offspring, whom Tassen refers to as “Puppy” and “Bitch,” somewhat appropriately, since they seem to be of the belief that they should now be in charge of Mrs. T’s life.
There is humour in this to add some balance, although it is often a dark humour. I would not consider it a light, happy story – especially as Mrs. T., a retired librarian, shares the story of the book she is reading with Tassen, about Roald Amundsen’s 1911 journey to the South Pole, the dogs that we involved in that exploration, and their story. For each of the dogs accounted for on that exploration, she makes a folded paper dog, and then another and more…until all of the dogs are accounted for – just to show Tassen how many dogs there were on this expedition, since his math skills are somewhat limited.
As time passes, their relationship grows, her fondness for him as a companion, someone she can talk to, share things with, grows. His trust in her grows, as well as his love of her stories and her cinnamon rolls. What he is less fond of is her keenness for dragon water, but he is still protective of her, and doesn’t appreciate it when others take advantage or are less than kind to her. He becomes her closest friend, protector and partner, and in exchange she confides and shares more of herself in the process. As time passes, they spend their days watching Dr. Pill on the TV, which she loves to comment on, which works – but, not always – to keep her from overindulging in her dragon water.
This story is shared from Tassen’s perspective, which adds to the sense of watching, waiting, wondering how this story will eventually end, but in the meantime, enjoying being slowly immersed in their quietly wonderful world and the love and trust that develop. To be alone is one thing, to be alone with a dog, or more, is to not really be alone, at all. To love, to share love is really all that matters, it is what gives meaning to our lives.
Pub Date: 18 Aug 2020
Many thanks for the ARC provided by HarperCollins Publishers / HarperVia via NetGalley
#GoodDogsDontMakeIttotheSouthPole #NetGalley
January 1, 2020
Two and a half stars
I started this expecting it to be a light and amusing read. After all it is told from the point of view of a dog, Tassen. After the Major dies it is up to Tassen and the Major’s wife to carry on. They settle into a life together surrounded by books and stories of the 1911 race to reach the South Pole first, between Norway’s explorer Roald Admunsen and Britain’s’ Captain Robert Scott. What started as an entertaining and amusing read though turned into something else. It became bogged down at times in the details of the South Pole excursions and the behaviour of those involved in the quest. By the time it had gone on a while I found my attention beginning to waver and I was more inclined to skim read. Maybe this is because I had the wrong expectations going into this book but in the end I found it just an okay read.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my uncorrected proof copy to read and review. Sorry I didn’t like it more. This is only my opinion. Others may thoroughly enjoy this book about aging and companionship. Maybe it also depends on how much you really want to know about what went on, on those South Pole excursions. Loved the cover on this one.
I started this expecting it to be a light and amusing read. After all it is told from the point of view of a dog, Tassen. After the Major dies it is up to Tassen and the Major’s wife to carry on. They settle into a life together surrounded by books and stories of the 1911 race to reach the South Pole first, between Norway’s explorer Roald Admunsen and Britain’s’ Captain Robert Scott. What started as an entertaining and amusing read though turned into something else. It became bogged down at times in the details of the South Pole excursions and the behaviour of those involved in the quest. By the time it had gone on a while I found my attention beginning to waver and I was more inclined to skim read. Maybe this is because I had the wrong expectations going into this book but in the end I found it just an okay read.
My thanks to Allen & Unwin for my uncorrected proof copy to read and review. Sorry I didn’t like it more. This is only my opinion. Others may thoroughly enjoy this book about aging and companionship. Maybe it also depends on how much you really want to know about what went on, on those South Pole excursions. Loved the cover on this one.
November 17, 2021
(Edit (25/01/20): I think this book had a much darker ending that I realised at the time of finishing it. It's only been two days of course but my mind keeps returning to this story, going over the things that happened in it. This is not a light story - it's kept buoyant by the humour, but actually it deals with some rather confronting and depressing things.)
What an odd book this was and before you think I have complaints, I mean it in the nicest way. This was five stars for me so you know I like it. It’s my second five star novel for 2020 yet, unlike My Sister, the Serial Killer (which is fab and I recommend it) this one will remain on my shelf of favourite books. They’re the ones I like to get out now and then and reads snippets of, or just scan, or that I think I’ll re-read at some stage and Good Dogs don't make it to the South Pole I will most likely read again once I get to feeling elderly (if not before).
Besides that, I have a feeling that there are deeper things to be gained from this novel that I’ve missed. That happens to me sometime, particularly if the ‘deeper things’ are those with which I’m not familiar or haven’t experienced. Then I can miss them more easily. So I feel like there is more for me in this book and I’ll be keeping an eye on other peoples reviews to see if this is true. Of course, I could be mistaken. Maybe Thyvold’s story simply is what it is. In that case, no problem - because I loved it!
The story is written by a dog called Tassen. He’s a clever dog, though he doesn’t always understand the world of humans (hey, that could be said for many of us), and this leads to many funny moments. Tassen is a sweet soul and his view of the world was fascinating. We share similar views on poetry, I found…not so keen on it. The novel finds him giving opinions on various animals species—and dog breeds, pondering whether this makes him a racist, and watching the “Dr Pill” show with his owner Mrs Thorkildsen.
Tassen branches out socially but much of the book is based around his relationship with Mrs Thorkildsen, their outings together, their talks, and their readings together. Yes, I said talks and readings. I can’t really explain it to you but it’s not creepy or weird - it works beautifully. Now, the reading is important because another focus of the book is their exploration of Roald Amundsen’s trip to the South Pole (beating Scott’s one, which ended in his death). If you don’t think you could get interested in a South Pole trip, then this may not be the book for you. Also, it was harsh. Few participants got a good deal and especially not the dogs.
However, there’s more. Mrs Thorkildsen is an elderly woman who is now on her own (her husband passes at the beginning). I feel like Thyvold deals deftly with her concerns about ageing and what the future holds. I will not say too much about this because I think it’s best you learn from reading the book.
This was an Advance Reader Copy so I can’t quote it at this stage, but if I could, I would add at least a dozen quotes to Goodreads today. I made many pencil marks while reading and I think when my library gets a published copy I’ll give you the quotes then. I feel like I need to with this novel.
Good Dogs don't make it to the South Pole was a joy to read despite the difficult, sad and sometimes downright nasty realities it dealt with.
Thank you to the publisher, Allen and Unwin, and the author, Hans-Olav Thyvold, for this copy given in return for my honest review.
What an odd book this was and before you think I have complaints, I mean it in the nicest way. This was five stars for me so you know I like it. It’s my second five star novel for 2020 yet, unlike My Sister, the Serial Killer (which is fab and I recommend it) this one will remain on my shelf of favourite books. They’re the ones I like to get out now and then and reads snippets of, or just scan, or that I think I’ll re-read at some stage and Good Dogs don't make it to the South Pole I will most likely read again once I get to feeling elderly (if not before).
Besides that, I have a feeling that there are deeper things to be gained from this novel that I’ve missed. That happens to me sometime, particularly if the ‘deeper things’ are those with which I’m not familiar or haven’t experienced. Then I can miss them more easily. So I feel like there is more for me in this book and I’ll be keeping an eye on other peoples reviews to see if this is true. Of course, I could be mistaken. Maybe Thyvold’s story simply is what it is. In that case, no problem - because I loved it!
The story is written by a dog called Tassen. He’s a clever dog, though he doesn’t always understand the world of humans (hey, that could be said for many of us), and this leads to many funny moments. Tassen is a sweet soul and his view of the world was fascinating. We share similar views on poetry, I found…not so keen on it. The novel finds him giving opinions on various animals species—and dog breeds, pondering whether this makes him a racist, and watching the “Dr Pill” show with his owner Mrs Thorkildsen.
Tassen branches out socially but much of the book is based around his relationship with Mrs Thorkildsen, their outings together, their talks, and their readings together. Yes, I said talks and readings. I can’t really explain it to you but it’s not creepy or weird - it works beautifully. Now, the reading is important because another focus of the book is their exploration of Roald Amundsen’s trip to the South Pole (beating Scott’s one, which ended in his death). If you don’t think you could get interested in a South Pole trip, then this may not be the book for you. Also, it was harsh. Few participants got a good deal and especially not the dogs.
However, there’s more. Mrs Thorkildsen is an elderly woman who is now on her own (her husband passes at the beginning). I feel like Thyvold deals deftly with her concerns about ageing and what the future holds. I will not say too much about this because I think it’s best you learn from reading the book.
This was an Advance Reader Copy so I can’t quote it at this stage, but if I could, I would add at least a dozen quotes to Goodreads today. I made many pencil marks while reading and I think when my library gets a published copy I’ll give you the quotes then. I feel like I need to with this novel.
Good Dogs don't make it to the South Pole was a joy to read despite the difficult, sad and sometimes downright nasty realities it dealt with.
Thank you to the publisher, Allen and Unwin, and the author, Hans-Olav Thyvold, for this copy given in return for my honest review.
March 29, 2020
With my dog, a glass of dragon water and nowhere to go (thanks to Stage 2 Lockdown) this novel gave me something to laugh about in the current miserable situation.
“A perfect example of one of the dangers of reading books. It may change you. Forever”.
“The Librarian takes a fresh swig. I may have overestimated Mrs. Thorkildsen’s special talent for drinking; new evidence would suggest that this is a more widespread skill. It would seem that librarians, in the course of their everyday work, are exposed to environmental hazards that predispose them to liberal engagement with intoxicating beverages. Once a librarian, always a drunkard. It’s just a theory.”
“A perfect example of one of the dangers of reading books. It may change you. Forever”.
“The Librarian takes a fresh swig. I may have overestimated Mrs. Thorkildsen’s special talent for drinking; new evidence would suggest that this is a more widespread skill. It would seem that librarians, in the course of their everyday work, are exposed to environmental hazards that predispose them to liberal engagement with intoxicating beverages. Once a librarian, always a drunkard. It’s just a theory.”
October 30, 2020
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
‘Mrs Thorkildsen thinks for a while before responding: ‘Well, who knows? It’s not at the South Pole. But if it was a good dog, and I have every reason to think it was, I’m sure it went to a good place.’ ‘Good dogs don’t make it to the South Pole?’ ‘Unlikely.’
Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole by Norwegian born author Hans Olav-Thyvold was first published in 2017 as Snille hunder kommer ikke til Sydpolen. Translated into English and released in February 2020 by Allen and Unwin, Hans Olav-Thyvold’s novel offers an offbeat account of the life and times of Tassen, a dog recently left in the care of the widow of his much loved owner. Moving, revealing, surprising and life affirming, Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole is an entertaining piece of debut fiction from Hans Olav-Thyfold.
A story that looks at life, love, death, ownership, friendship, loyalty and trust, Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole follows a dog named Tassen who is left rather bereft following the loss of his owner named The Major. A survivor of the Second World War, the Major rescued Tassen and gave him a loving and respectful home. But now following the death of the Major, Tassen faces a future under the care of the Major’s wife. Both are grieving the loss of the Major, but they manage to cultivate a new friendship based on respect, care, compassion, understanding and unconditional support. Mrs Thorkildesen begins to take Tassen with her to the library, where she tells Tassen stories of a great dog journey involving a race between renowned explorers Roald Amundsen and Captain Robert F. Scott to get to the South Pole. This is a strange time for Tassen, learning to negotiate a new friendship and reconcile his thoughts on this keynote expedition. But just as the Major succumbed to illness and old age, so too does Mrs Thorkildsen. In this ode to a dog’s life, Hans Olav-Thyfold considers the light and dark moments in this canine’s existence.
I have a weakness for dog stories and I was really intrigued by the slightly offbeat title of Hans Olav-Thyfold’s fictional debut, Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole. A very appealing cover featuring a gorgeous dog also caught my attention and I knew that I had to read this international bestseller. I’m glad I made some room in my rather tight reading schedule for this non review book, it was a heart-warming piece.
I loved how Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole was solely narrated from the viewpoint of an endearing and a captive narrator, Tassen the Dog. We are privy to Tassen’s innermost thoughts, feelings and opinions. Some of these will have you laughing, crying and they may even leave you baffled! I liked how this book worked to illustrate the confusion that exists between how we relate to dogs and how our canine friends misunderstand us. But what shines is the loyalty, respect, trust and implicit love between a human and a canine. There are moments of pure love and devastating lows. The sad times did get to me, but I was able to take the moments of hope that are sprinkled through this novel as a guiding light to get me through the sorrow.
Relationships are a focal point in Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole. We witness the respectful reciprocal relationship between Tassen and the Major. We glean a little of Tassen’s history, as well as the Major’s life story. We meet the Major at the end of his life and his departure leaves a big dent in the life of his dog and his wife’s heart. The author did a good job of capturing the grief and loss felt by a canine left behind once his owner passes on. I liked the gentle development of the relationship between Tassen and the Major’s wife. This was a genuine connection that progressed out of grief, need, support and duty. Within the context of the relationship side of things, we receive a different kind of insight into ageing and ill health, from a dog’s point of view. This was unusual, but also enlightening.
There is an extra focus for this narrative that forms a relatively significant component of the novel. We are guided through a story involving the race to the South Pole, involving two prominent explorers. There is a rather sad history to the dogs involved in this pioneering expedition. I’m not sure that it had as much impact for me as the author may have intended. I think the focus on the relationship between the dog, the Major and his widow was more than enough for this novel.
Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole offers a unique look into grief, loss, friendship and ageing from the viewpoint of a very perceptive canine. I’m sure Hans Olav-Thyvold’s book will resonate with many readers, including dog lovers.
*Book #10 of the 2020 International Male Author Challenge.
‘Mrs Thorkildsen thinks for a while before responding: ‘Well, who knows? It’s not at the South Pole. But if it was a good dog, and I have every reason to think it was, I’m sure it went to a good place.’ ‘Good dogs don’t make it to the South Pole?’ ‘Unlikely.’
Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole by Norwegian born author Hans Olav-Thyvold was first published in 2017 as Snille hunder kommer ikke til Sydpolen. Translated into English and released in February 2020 by Allen and Unwin, Hans Olav-Thyvold’s novel offers an offbeat account of the life and times of Tassen, a dog recently left in the care of the widow of his much loved owner. Moving, revealing, surprising and life affirming, Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole is an entertaining piece of debut fiction from Hans Olav-Thyfold.
A story that looks at life, love, death, ownership, friendship, loyalty and trust, Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole follows a dog named Tassen who is left rather bereft following the loss of his owner named The Major. A survivor of the Second World War, the Major rescued Tassen and gave him a loving and respectful home. But now following the death of the Major, Tassen faces a future under the care of the Major’s wife. Both are grieving the loss of the Major, but they manage to cultivate a new friendship based on respect, care, compassion, understanding and unconditional support. Mrs Thorkildesen begins to take Tassen with her to the library, where she tells Tassen stories of a great dog journey involving a race between renowned explorers Roald Amundsen and Captain Robert F. Scott to get to the South Pole. This is a strange time for Tassen, learning to negotiate a new friendship and reconcile his thoughts on this keynote expedition. But just as the Major succumbed to illness and old age, so too does Mrs Thorkildsen. In this ode to a dog’s life, Hans Olav-Thyfold considers the light and dark moments in this canine’s existence.
I have a weakness for dog stories and I was really intrigued by the slightly offbeat title of Hans Olav-Thyfold’s fictional debut, Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole. A very appealing cover featuring a gorgeous dog also caught my attention and I knew that I had to read this international bestseller. I’m glad I made some room in my rather tight reading schedule for this non review book, it was a heart-warming piece.
I loved how Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole was solely narrated from the viewpoint of an endearing and a captive narrator, Tassen the Dog. We are privy to Tassen’s innermost thoughts, feelings and opinions. Some of these will have you laughing, crying and they may even leave you baffled! I liked how this book worked to illustrate the confusion that exists between how we relate to dogs and how our canine friends misunderstand us. But what shines is the loyalty, respect, trust and implicit love between a human and a canine. There are moments of pure love and devastating lows. The sad times did get to me, but I was able to take the moments of hope that are sprinkled through this novel as a guiding light to get me through the sorrow.
Relationships are a focal point in Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole. We witness the respectful reciprocal relationship between Tassen and the Major. We glean a little of Tassen’s history, as well as the Major’s life story. We meet the Major at the end of his life and his departure leaves a big dent in the life of his dog and his wife’s heart. The author did a good job of capturing the grief and loss felt by a canine left behind once his owner passes on. I liked the gentle development of the relationship between Tassen and the Major’s wife. This was a genuine connection that progressed out of grief, need, support and duty. Within the context of the relationship side of things, we receive a different kind of insight into ageing and ill health, from a dog’s point of view. This was unusual, but also enlightening.
There is an extra focus for this narrative that forms a relatively significant component of the novel. We are guided through a story involving the race to the South Pole, involving two prominent explorers. There is a rather sad history to the dogs involved in this pioneering expedition. I’m not sure that it had as much impact for me as the author may have intended. I think the focus on the relationship between the dog, the Major and his widow was more than enough for this novel.
Good Dogs Don’t Make It to the South Pole offers a unique look into grief, loss, friendship and ageing from the viewpoint of a very perceptive canine. I’m sure Hans Olav-Thyvold’s book will resonate with many readers, including dog lovers.
*Book #10 of the 2020 International Male Author Challenge.
January 12, 2021
The voice of Tassen, our dog narrator, is by turns alternately hilarious and bemused on the journey he takes with his elderly owner, Mrs. Thorkildsen, after his steady partner and her husband dies. His world has changed dramatically and we are given a remarkable dog’s view of the aged “Mrs. T.” as she tries to adjust to widowhood, sipping on “dragon juice” and taking to watching “Dr. Pill” on midday television. A former librarian, Mrs. Thorkildsen becomes engrossed in the history of explorer Roald Amundsen and the pack of Greenland dogs who reached the South Pole before the British, over a century ago. As she struggles to reach her local market, to do her chores, to manage on her deteriorating life journey, she rallies gamely as she researches and reports the nature of how these dogs were useful on this earlier trip.
This is a philosophical novel and can be absorbed on with many layers. How humanity has incorporated dogs into its own survival is pertinent, juxtaposed against Mrs. Thorkildsen and her husband’s lives, is addressed - and leaves one thinking deeply about the relationships we have with living things, the responsibilities- and the dignity of both our animals and elders as time and usefulness wanes.
I kept envisioning Tassen as a Schipperke dog, who had an unfortunate white spot on his otherwise black coat - a merry, protective and strong Belgian breed of dog which seemed to fit with this tale - and who as a result became a pet, rather than a show dog.
This is not a Lassie Come Home warm and fuzzy book- it is a commentary on aging, usefulness, how we construct and find meaning in life as we age and the inevitable. It is truly special, written by author Thyvold, as narrated in the loving voice of the dog Tassen.
Truly worth reading. Five stars.
This is a philosophical novel and can be absorbed on with many layers. How humanity has incorporated dogs into its own survival is pertinent, juxtaposed against Mrs. Thorkildsen and her husband’s lives, is addressed - and leaves one thinking deeply about the relationships we have with living things, the responsibilities- and the dignity of both our animals and elders as time and usefulness wanes.
I kept envisioning Tassen as a Schipperke dog, who had an unfortunate white spot on his otherwise black coat - a merry, protective and strong Belgian breed of dog which seemed to fit with this tale - and who as a result became a pet, rather than a show dog.
This is not a Lassie Come Home warm and fuzzy book- it is a commentary on aging, usefulness, how we construct and find meaning in life as we age and the inevitable. It is truly special, written by author Thyvold, as narrated in the loving voice of the dog Tassen.
Truly worth reading. Five stars.
September 9, 2020
This was an absolutely wonderful reading experience! You might think that a book about a talking dog would be a "lightweight" read, but you'd be wrong. And don't let the cartoon-ish cover fool you, either. This is no lightweight and certainly no cartoon! In fact, it's incredibly poignant, and doesn't seem odd in the least that Tassen should speak and be understood by Mrs. Thorkildsen. It feels as natural as can be, and they have the most stimulating conversations!
I laughed A LOT - almost constantly - during the first part of the book. Who knew a dog could have such an engaging personality and such a shrewd sense of humour?! Much of the conversation revolved around Roald Amundsen’s expedition to the South Pole. While reading a book about the journey, Mrs. Thorkildsen shared the story with Tassen, and very cleverly crafted hundreds of paper dog cut-outs to help him understand how many dogs were involved in their agonizing trek. So ingeniously done! The story they discussed was very heady and often quite nauseating stuff.
But there were tears, too. Tears for the demise of so many courageous, devoted dogs. And tears for one extraordinary dog who gave so much more than he could ever lose.
And finally, hats off to the translator for doing a really remarkable job.
I laughed A LOT - almost constantly - during the first part of the book. Who knew a dog could have such an engaging personality and such a shrewd sense of humour?! Much of the conversation revolved around Roald Amundsen’s expedition to the South Pole. While reading a book about the journey, Mrs. Thorkildsen shared the story with Tassen, and very cleverly crafted hundreds of paper dog cut-outs to help him understand how many dogs were involved in their agonizing trek. So ingeniously done! The story they discussed was very heady and often quite nauseating stuff.
But there were tears, too. Tears for the demise of so many courageous, devoted dogs. And tears for one extraordinary dog who gave so much more than he could ever lose.
And finally, hats off to the translator for doing a really remarkable job.
March 22, 2020
Hans-Olav Thyvold has taken our favorite mutt and made him into a lovable dog named Tassen. Tassen talks to Mrs. Thorkildsen after her husband Major Thorkildsen died. What they talked about the most was about dogs and the first person to reach the South Pole, Roald Amundsen. A Norwegian before the British reached it. What was interesting was that Amundsen was in Greenland for two years before he left for the South Pole working with the Greenland dogs to master working with them. During the tales that Mrs. Thorkildsen told Tassen, she would go shipping, go to the library, then stop in at the local pub. She knew that Tassen couldn't count so she cut out dogs in paper and would talk about what they would do to the dogs aboard ship or out on the ice. Mrs. Thorkildsen had a son Tassen called puppy and he had a wife which Tassen called the bitch. The bitch ruled and the puppy did her bidding, which was to get Mrs. Thorkildsen to move into a old persons home, so they could have her home for themselves. It happens at the pub, Mrs. Thorkildsen falls and the end is near. Puppy finds Tassen in a dog pound and takes the mantle over as the boss of Tassen. There is plenty of illustrations of what happens during the time Tassen makes his moves. Read it for yourself to see how it proceeds in telling Hans-Olav's story.
July 20, 2020
A wonderfully told book of a life lived through the eyes of a faithful dog. We've all wondered what our dogs were thinking at one point or another. Hans-Olav Thyvold gives a voice to Tassen, a dog chosen as the last friend to the Major and then his wife. The story is an original. A life lived in the comfort of a family that transitions after the Major dies. The tale of the journey of a famous dog sled team to the south pole runs through the main tale. Both stories are sure to please dog lovers of all kinds. This book gives you a warm, emotional feeling as you read it and again every time you think of it. It really deserves much more than 5 stars.
October 28, 2020
I was really looking forward to reading this book. The premise sounded very appealing but it just seemed to go off the rails and get bogged down in the story of the South Pole expedition and all the horrors inflicted on the dogs that helped Amundsen win the race. Sorry. Not the story I wanted to read. This novel needed some serious editing. Way too long. I almost gave up on this book a couple of times but I stuck with it hoping for some great end. It didn’t happen. I liked the dog Tassan. None of the other characters were endearing. Sad to say but I would not recommend reading this.
March 26, 2020
What a treat! Tassen is right up there with S.T. from Hollow Kingdom as a narrator with a sympathetic but ultimately nonhuman voice. Tassen is cultured compared to S.T., but both take action to mitigate their humans'unwise choices with mixed results. Please give yourself a shot of cheer with these fully developed characters. And while we're talking about it, don't miss Three Bales Full - sheep detectives.
July 3, 2017
Lo høyt flere ganger. Lettlest og underholdende, anbefales!
December 1, 2020
This is an interesting book about dogs, aging, families, and the race to the South Pole, as narrated by a dog!
January 25, 2020
After much agonising, I'm calling this a DNF at page 166 (55% read). I absolutely hate giving up on books, but I also feel life is too short to spend reading books you're not enjoying. And unfortunately, this book has me feeling this way. It's having me put off reading when I used to love it, reading it for me is a chore instead of a pleasure, and so I'm having to conclude it's not the book for me.
Good Dogs Don't Make it to the South Pole is the story of a dog called Tassen. After his master, Major Thorkildsen dies, he and widow Mrs Thorkildsen attempt to navigate their new life. Part of their grieving and moving forwards includes them discovering Roald Admunsen's journey to reach the South Pole first.
Look, I've read books from a dog's perspective before and loved it. Dogs (obviously) see the world in a different way to us, and someone putting that into words? It's magical to read. Tassen, for me, didn't quite work. Occasionally he would see the world through a dog's eyes and a dog's imagination, but too many other occasions he seemed to see the world as a human - and even have conversations with Mrs Thorkildsen as if he was human. Actual in depth conversations and analysis. Now, I talk to my pets as much as the next person, but if I read them aloud a piece of whatever I'm reading they don't offer their thoughts and opinions back. It just didn't work for me how sometimes he seemed a dog, and other times human.
Mrs Thorkildsen. I think she could have been an interesting character and would have loved to have seen her moving through the grieving process and her new life. Her husband gone, left with just his dog, a son that rarely visits, a daughter-in-law who just wants the house....she's lonely and trying to find where she fits into this new world. Unfortunately, I come back to my earlier point about Tassen just not being the right narrator to tell me this story.
This book is also quite heavy on the history of the Antarctic expedition, and offers opinions and insights into those involved with the journey. That was probably the most interesting aspect of the book for me. Mrs Thorkildsen threw herself into her research, learning about who they were as people, what they contributed to the group. The book doesn't hold back on the nasty details either. There were parts that were uncomfortable to read because they go against my beliefs - but I guess it's easy to have such beliefs when you haven't had that life experience that the polar explorers did.
I kept trying to force myself to try this book, but ultimately couldn't do it. I hate giving up on books. Sometimes you just have to concede that a book isn't right for you though.
**I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Good Dogs Don't Make it to the South Pole is the story of a dog called Tassen. After his master, Major Thorkildsen dies, he and widow Mrs Thorkildsen attempt to navigate their new life. Part of their grieving and moving forwards includes them discovering Roald Admunsen's journey to reach the South Pole first.
Look, I've read books from a dog's perspective before and loved it. Dogs (obviously) see the world in a different way to us, and someone putting that into words? It's magical to read. Tassen, for me, didn't quite work. Occasionally he would see the world through a dog's eyes and a dog's imagination, but too many other occasions he seemed to see the world as a human - and even have conversations with Mrs Thorkildsen as if he was human. Actual in depth conversations and analysis. Now, I talk to my pets as much as the next person, but if I read them aloud a piece of whatever I'm reading they don't offer their thoughts and opinions back. It just didn't work for me how sometimes he seemed a dog, and other times human.
Mrs Thorkildsen. I think she could have been an interesting character and would have loved to have seen her moving through the grieving process and her new life. Her husband gone, left with just his dog, a son that rarely visits, a daughter-in-law who just wants the house....she's lonely and trying to find where she fits into this new world. Unfortunately, I come back to my earlier point about Tassen just not being the right narrator to tell me this story.
This book is also quite heavy on the history of the Antarctic expedition, and offers opinions and insights into those involved with the journey. That was probably the most interesting aspect of the book for me. Mrs Thorkildsen threw herself into her research, learning about who they were as people, what they contributed to the group. The book doesn't hold back on the nasty details either. There were parts that were uncomfortable to read because they go against my beliefs - but I guess it's easy to have such beliefs when you haven't had that life experience that the polar explorers did.
I kept trying to force myself to try this book, but ultimately couldn't do it. I hate giving up on books. Sometimes you just have to concede that a book isn't right for you though.
**I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
August 28, 2020
What a wonderful experience this was! I knew after reading just three pages that this might be a five star book. And indeed it is: a delightfully gay, poignant, joyful, sometimes snarky, always enthralling adventure into the human condition. It's told from the unique perspective of a very believable, charming dog named Tassen; an outcast, the runt of the litter and lover of all things human... especially treats and companionship. If you've ever suspected that dogs may have a more informed and enlightened understanding of life, death, nature and the the cosmos than we do, you'll find this one of the most absorbing stories ever. And even if you've never shared those suspicions but have just once marveled at how a dog seems to take such great joy from the simplest of things, you'll love this book enormously.
Author Hans-Olav Thyvold has done a magnificent job making Tassen - an absurdly gifted talking dog - come alive in such a playful, wondrous, joyfully believable and (eventually) serious manner. But I think much of the credit should be shared with Marie Ostby, the translator who rendered the original Norwegian text into English. I've read many books translated from their original languages into English. Yet never have I felt those other book translations were as natural, evocative and effortless as this one.
So my final verdict on Tassen's adventure is: 10 stars; five for the author's wonderful story, and five for Marie Ostby's amazing and moving translation. This is a must read for any dog lover!
Author Hans-Olav Thyvold has done a magnificent job making Tassen - an absurdly gifted talking dog - come alive in such a playful, wondrous, joyfully believable and (eventually) serious manner. But I think much of the credit should be shared with Marie Ostby, the translator who rendered the original Norwegian text into English. I've read many books translated from their original languages into English. Yet never have I felt those other book translations were as natural, evocative and effortless as this one.
So my final verdict on Tassen's adventure is: 10 stars; five for the author's wonderful story, and five for Marie Ostby's amazing and moving translation. This is a must read for any dog lover!
October 18, 2020
Wonderful Norwegian tale narrated by the dog. It follows the relationship of a widow after her husband passes and the dog, Tassen, develops a new relationship with her. The widow was a former librarian and takes to reading books to Tassen, specifically books on the exploration of the South Pole (thus the title). Compassionate, reflective but witty throughout.
February 2, 2020
Soweit meine Erfahrungen langt, riecht jedes Buch auf dieser Welt anders. Vielleicht ist es keine große Überraschung, dass eine alte, in Leder gebundene Ausgabe anders riecht als ein billiges Taschenbuch, aber da gibt es noch mehr. Ein Buch nimmt natürlich den Geruch desjeniegen an, der es liest, sowie den Geruch des Ortes, an dem es gelesen wird. Und darüber hinaus nimmt es den Geruch der vergehenden Zeit in sich auf. Das war der Geruch, den ich in der Bibliothek wiedererkannte, als wir beim ersten Mal dort waren.
Die ersten Seiten des Buches sind mit die stärksten, das hat dafür gesorgt, dass ich lange darauf gewartet habe mehr davon zu bekommen. Dadurch konnte ich die Geschichte nicht so ganz genießen und war zwischendrin ein wenig verloren. Gegen Ende habe ich mich sehr wohl gefühlt. Es war so erfrischend das menschlichen Leben aus Tassens Sicht zu betrachten. Die Eroberung des Südpols noch einmal zu lesen (passend dazu habe ich vor ein paar Monaten Duell im ewigen Eis. Scott und Amundsen oder die Eroberung des Südpols. gelesen). Die Fragen über die Hunde hätten auch von mir sein können 😅
Es passiert nicht viel, denn so ist das Leben manchmal. Man lebt vor sich hin und erlebt seine eigenen Abenteuer, die andere gar nicht sehen. Objektiv gesehen bietet das Buch alles, was ich liebe: ein Hund spielt die Hauptrolle, es spielt in Norwegen und stammt auch von einem norwegische Autor und die (Er-)Forschung, speziell die der (Ant-)Arktis spielt eine wichtige Rolle.
Trotzdem habe ich während des Lesens die vier Sterne nicht gefühlt, aber es ist definitiv besser als drei Sterne. Ein kleines Highlight war für mich auch, als der Titel in einem der vielen Gespräche zwischen Tassen und Frau Thorkildsen fiel.
Hätte das Zitat nicht von einer Bibliothekarin, sondern von einem Hund gestammt, würde es nicht Sein oder Nichtsein, sondern allein oder nicht allein lauten. Es geht um jemanden oder niemanden. Es geht darum, nicht allein zu sein, wenn du stirbst, genauso, wie es darum geht, nicht allein zu sein während du lebst. Ein todesmutiges Rudel auf dem Schlachtfeld oder eine knochige kleine Renterinnenhand, die dich krault, während die Kanüle des Tierarztes langsam eindringt, das ist nicht so wichtig. Hauptsache, nicht allein.
Die ersten Seiten des Buches sind mit die stärksten, das hat dafür gesorgt, dass ich lange darauf gewartet habe mehr davon zu bekommen. Dadurch konnte ich die Geschichte nicht so ganz genießen und war zwischendrin ein wenig verloren. Gegen Ende habe ich mich sehr wohl gefühlt. Es war so erfrischend das menschlichen Leben aus Tassens Sicht zu betrachten. Die Eroberung des Südpols noch einmal zu lesen (passend dazu habe ich vor ein paar Monaten Duell im ewigen Eis. Scott und Amundsen oder die Eroberung des Südpols. gelesen). Die Fragen über die Hunde hätten auch von mir sein können 😅
Es passiert nicht viel, denn so ist das Leben manchmal. Man lebt vor sich hin und erlebt seine eigenen Abenteuer, die andere gar nicht sehen. Objektiv gesehen bietet das Buch alles, was ich liebe: ein Hund spielt die Hauptrolle, es spielt in Norwegen und stammt auch von einem norwegische Autor und die (Er-)Forschung, speziell die der (Ant-)Arktis spielt eine wichtige Rolle.
Trotzdem habe ich während des Lesens die vier Sterne nicht gefühlt, aber es ist definitiv besser als drei Sterne. Ein kleines Highlight war für mich auch, als der Titel in einem der vielen Gespräche zwischen Tassen und Frau Thorkildsen fiel.
Hätte das Zitat nicht von einer Bibliothekarin, sondern von einem Hund gestammt, würde es nicht Sein oder Nichtsein, sondern allein oder nicht allein lauten. Es geht um jemanden oder niemanden. Es geht darum, nicht allein zu sein, wenn du stirbst, genauso, wie es darum geht, nicht allein zu sein während du lebst. Ein todesmutiges Rudel auf dem Schlachtfeld oder eine knochige kleine Renterinnenhand, die dich krault, während die Kanüle des Tierarztes langsam eindringt, das ist nicht so wichtig. Hauptsache, nicht allein.
July 26, 2021
I like this book, but so much of it is dominated by a clever retelling of Roald Amundsen's early 20th-century slog to the South Pole that Mrs. Thorkilden and her dog Lassen sometimes take a back seat to the story within their story.
Hans-Olav Thyvold understands dogs, but unlike Peter Abrahams (author of the Chet and Bernie series of dog detective novels), Thyvold hasn't yet figured out how to make the interaction between dog and dog owner consistent with common experience. In one chapter, Thyvold gives up that effort, and amusingly decides that Lassen is a talking dog.
The widow Thorkilden's antipathy to Jesus is never satisfactorily explained, either, even when I thought she'd confide in the pretty young Vietnamese friend whom she invites to dinner late in the book. Both the retired old woman and the still-working young one are librarians. While they're comfortable philosophizing with each other (and Lassen appears to report much of their conversation to us faithfully), they end up talking about Amundsen's trek to the South Pole.
I like the book for its meditations on canine thinking, on aging, and on death. What keeps me from rating it higher are its loose ends.
Hans-Olav Thyvold understands dogs, but unlike Peter Abrahams (author of the Chet and Bernie series of dog detective novels), Thyvold hasn't yet figured out how to make the interaction between dog and dog owner consistent with common experience. In one chapter, Thyvold gives up that effort, and amusingly decides that Lassen is a talking dog.
The widow Thorkilden's antipathy to Jesus is never satisfactorily explained, either, even when I thought she'd confide in the pretty young Vietnamese friend whom she invites to dinner late in the book. Both the retired old woman and the still-working young one are librarians. While they're comfortable philosophizing with each other (and Lassen appears to report much of their conversation to us faithfully), they end up talking about Amundsen's trek to the South Pole.
I like the book for its meditations on canine thinking, on aging, and on death. What keeps me from rating it higher are its loose ends.
March 22, 2022
Tassen de hond weet het verhaal leuk vanuit zijn perspectief te brengen, ook tof om iets meer te weten over het verhaal van Roald Amundsen (Als bewoner van de Amundsenstraat) . Verder had het soms wel iets meer vaart mogen hebben, maar met plezier gelezen
Read
November 25, 2021Started off well but I became a little bored. DNF
November 3, 2020
This book just wasn’t for me, a life told through the eyes of a dog.
January 18, 2021
I forced myself to finish this book. In fact, I forced myself to continue reading this book after a 100 pages or so because I wanted so much for it to be a good read. It was totally NOT what I was expecting, which was a bit of humor derived from the protagonist dog telling the story of his life with his aging Master. Blurbs about this book referred to it as " A Man Called Ove meets The Art of Racing in the Rain".
What I did get... Tassen (the dog), takes us from his humble beginnings of his human, Mr. Thorkildsen, bringing him home from the breeder, to Mr. Thorkildsen's death, to his bonding with Mrs. Thorkildsen, who is an ex-librarian, who misses her husband so much that she frequently drowns her sorrow in what Tassen, the dog, calls Dragon water. Part of the bonding between Tassen and Mrs. Thorkildsen revolves around her telling Tassen the story of Roald Amundsen's expedition to the South Pole because the story really is about the dogs that made the trip with him (but didn't make it back) and she feels this is a story they both can enjoy together. Tassen because he's a dog, and Mrs. Thorkildsen because for some unknown reason she has a crush on one of the explorers that made the trip with Amundsen.
I have to say I did learn alot about that trip to the South Pole. I'm not sure I really needed to read about ALL the various ways Amundsen and his crew killed the dogs along the way... repeatedly. The Amundsen story was written inbetween the story of Mrs. Thorkildsen's life spiraling down after the death of her husband, and how her son and his wife try to help Mom in her "old age".
And if all that wasn't enough, if you are a dog lover... You will not be happy with the ending.
There were bits of humor. Tassen does have some funny observations about humans, but for me the mistreatment of the dogs over shadowed those good bits.
The book had everything going for it before I read it... Norwegian writer ( I was thinking the writing would be similar to Swedish writer Fredrik Backman), Dog as protagonist (Think "The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein") and a award winning inside flap description (and they say don't judge a book by its' cover). But I am sad to say that it disappointed me on all counts. And having to read about the mistreatment of the animals made it worse... Sorry, this just wasn't my cup of tea. Maybe the mistreatment of the animals just tainted it all for me.
What I did get... Tassen (the dog), takes us from his humble beginnings of his human, Mr. Thorkildsen, bringing him home from the breeder, to Mr. Thorkildsen's death, to his bonding with Mrs. Thorkildsen, who is an ex-librarian, who misses her husband so much that she frequently drowns her sorrow in what Tassen, the dog, calls Dragon water. Part of the bonding between Tassen and Mrs. Thorkildsen revolves around her telling Tassen the story of Roald Amundsen's expedition to the South Pole because the story really is about the dogs that made the trip with him (but didn't make it back) and she feels this is a story they both can enjoy together. Tassen because he's a dog, and Mrs. Thorkildsen because for some unknown reason she has a crush on one of the explorers that made the trip with Amundsen.
I have to say I did learn alot about that trip to the South Pole. I'm not sure I really needed to read about ALL the various ways Amundsen and his crew killed the dogs along the way... repeatedly. The Amundsen story was written inbetween the story of Mrs. Thorkildsen's life spiraling down after the death of her husband, and how her son and his wife try to help Mom in her "old age".
And if all that wasn't enough, if you are a dog lover... You will not be happy with the ending.
There were bits of humor. Tassen does have some funny observations about humans, but for me the mistreatment of the dogs over shadowed those good bits.
The book had everything going for it before I read it... Norwegian writer ( I was thinking the writing would be similar to Swedish writer Fredrik Backman), Dog as protagonist (Think "The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein") and a award winning inside flap description (and they say don't judge a book by its' cover). But I am sad to say that it disappointed me on all counts. And having to read about the mistreatment of the animals made it worse... Sorry, this just wasn't my cup of tea. Maybe the mistreatment of the animals just tainted it all for me.
August 20, 2020
I just loved this book. I laughed, I cried, and I chortled at the adventures of Tassen and Mrs. Thorkildsen as they venture out to get "Dragon Water," pick up books and Roald Amundsen at the library, meals (and more) at the nearby tavern, and even their journey to a museum.
Oh what adventures they have!
One of my favorite lines is “Your bum is behind you whichever way you aim.” A pithy and all too true sentiment that you’ll nod at each time you read the phrase.
As you read this adventure story full of wry humor mixed in with the reality of growing old, you’ll forget that Tassen is a dog, or maybe you won’t. Tassen is awfully interested in telling readers about everything he smells.
I was reminded of
"The Art of Racing in the Rain" by Garth Stein as I read Thyvold's book.
Thanks to the BookLoft of German Village (Columbus, OH) http://www.bookloft.com for an ARC to read, laugh over, and review.
Oh what adventures they have!
One of my favorite lines is “Your bum is behind you whichever way you aim.” A pithy and all too true sentiment that you’ll nod at each time you read the phrase.
As you read this adventure story full of wry humor mixed in with the reality of growing old, you’ll forget that Tassen is a dog, or maybe you won’t. Tassen is awfully interested in telling readers about everything he smells.
I was reminded of
"The Art of Racing in the Rain" by Garth Stein as I read Thyvold's book. Thanks to the BookLoft of German Village (Columbus, OH) http://www.bookloft.com for an ARC to read, laugh over, and review.
March 28, 2020
Who’s a GOOD boy? Tassen is! Delightful story told from a dog’s POV. Mrs. Thorkildsen has long conversations with Tassen after the death of her husband. She explains the story of Roald Amundsen, the first person to reach the South Pole. She cuts out many, many paper dogs and props them up around the fireplace to help Tassen understand how many dogs were on that run, and what happened to them while on the ice. The two of them have many long and varied conversations with each other, at home or while out doing errands. After a near deathly tumble, Mrs. Thorkildsen is placed in a home and Tassen goes to the pound. Her son rescues him, and so the story continues. This book, the imagery, especially the paper dogs, will stick with me for a long time. One of the most charming books I’ve read in a long while. Highly recommend!
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 1, 2020
Thank you Hans-Olav Thyvold and Allen & Unwin for the ARC of Good Dogs Don't Make it to the South Pole.
I enjoyed this immensely, the character development is superb. I felt strong connections to Tassen and Mrs Thorkildsen and truly disliked Bitch. Tassen is quick witted, his sensitive sense of smell and his observations of people are hilarious. There are many laugh out loud moments. The accounts of the Antarctic expeditions are fascinating; informative and confronting. There are poignant comments on the treatment of animals and older people.
Highly recommend.
I enjoyed this immensely, the character development is superb. I felt strong connections to Tassen and Mrs Thorkildsen and truly disliked Bitch. Tassen is quick witted, his sensitive sense of smell and his observations of people are hilarious. There are many laugh out loud moments. The accounts of the Antarctic expeditions are fascinating; informative and confronting. There are poignant comments on the treatment of animals and older people.
Highly recommend.
February 19, 2022
I really wanted to like this book. Maybe I did at first, because I love all things dog. But this one left me feeling disturbed. I finished it, even though I was tempted to say I had when I hadn't. The subject matter is bleak. Death, ageing, family who are greedy and selfish and horrible. I am generous giving this three stars. I really didn't enjoy this book. But maybe that was the point. Don't let the title fool you like it did me. This was not a whimsical book. That's why it took me so long to read it, and I'm glad it's over.
August 9, 2020
2.5
I really enjoyed that it was from the perspective of a dog, there were some funny moments and the dog/owner relationship was portrayed well.
The writing was nice and it wasn't a bad book. It just wasn't a story for me. There was too much focus on the 1911 Race and I feel it overtook the parts of the plot I was actually enjoying.
I really enjoyed that it was from the perspective of a dog, there were some funny moments and the dog/owner relationship was portrayed well.
The writing was nice and it wasn't a bad book. It just wasn't a story for me. There was too much focus on the 1911 Race and I feel it overtook the parts of the plot I was actually enjoying.
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