The book I should have written

Shortly after we had returned to Singapore after Shasta had passed on, I received a package in the mail. I opened it up to find the book "Marley and Me" by John Grogan. I had seen the book many times previously, at Costco, at Target, but honestly, the interest in reading about someone else's dog never caught fancy with me... we had our own dog... why read about someone else's dogs pranks? The package also came with a card wishing us condolences about Shasta and saying that from reading what was written on our blog about Shasta, we would enjoy and relate to this book. 

I was still too upset to read the book and so I set it aside. Jessica started reading the book first and from her overall reaction, I knew I would have to read it sooner or later. 

About a week ago, I started reading the book. And last night, I put it down... completely read. I cannot honestly say that it is even close to the best book I have read. However, it terms of reality, there is nothing that comes close. Although Shasta was not even half as naughty as the author's dog Marley, everything else the author talked about with regard to unwavering loyalty, selflessness, friendship and most importantly, the fact that no matter what you did to him, he would never stay angry with you for more than all of 5 secs hit home so much. For those of you with interest in reading the book, I will not spoil it for you. My favorite part of the book was the last section. It touched me so much I was drawn to tears for the first time in about 6 weeks when thinking about Shasta. I recommend it as a "must read" to all pet owners, especially dogs, 'cos fish and hamsters just don't bring about the same emotions. Whether your "man's best friend" has passed on or not...

Another prop to the author, many stories that he told in the book, we have experienced. However, it takes a special person to be an author and reading this book convinced me that that little thought at the back of my mind about one day writing a book... he put it to rest. I don't know how he could put into words those actions that seemed so simple yet were too difficult to describe and draw your audiences' attention. I don't know... maybe that thought will one day come back and I might give it a try. But for now, I will stick with blogs.

Once again, the book's name is Marley and Me by John Grogan and the website is:

www.marleyandme.com

Happy Reading... if the book, then, our blog...