Official Review: Pogo's tale by Linda Lutes

Julie Petitbon · Post by **Julie Petitbon** » 03 Jun 2019, 21:20

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Pogo's tale" by Linda Lutes.]

3 out of 4 stars

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“A loyal dog, we conclude, is the universe’s ultimate companion.” This mantra is exemplified in Pogo’s Tale: The Life of a Therapy Dog by Linda Lutes. It is the true story of Pogo, a spirited therapy dog who, with the help of Lutes, brings comfort and happiness to those in need.

When Lutes adopts Pogo at the local shelter, she is very rambunctious and undisciplined. Deemed, “the wild one,” by pound employees, Pogo is just what Lutes and her husband need after two years without a furry friend. After a stint in obedience school, Pogo proves she is an exceptionally astute student. She is also outgoing and eager to interact with new people. Lutes, who has dedicated her life to helping others, sees that Pogo flourishes in this area as well and believes that Pogo might make a good therapy dog. She is right. Pogo, once successfully trained and certified, works at The Pioneer Home, an elderly care nursing home. It is here where Pogo finds her purpose.

I enjoyed reading this heart-warming story. The author’s narrative style is appealing, easy to read, and effortless. From the elderly residents at The Pioneer Home to Ramona, the young girl Lutes meets through the Big Brothers and Sisters program, the people in this book are brought to life through Lutes’ skillful use of dialogue and sensory language. I also like how Lutes integrates poems about the people and animals she encounters. These descriptive and charming poems enhance the tone and develop the personalities of the people in Pogo’s life.

Pogo is easy to fall in love with. She loves television, especially Stephen Colbert’s show, the Olympics, and animal shows. Her human-like reactions to the events on screen are endearing, and I found myself smiling and laughing when I read these sections. However, what makes Pogo really special is her gentle and almost telepathic way with humans. Pogo is the epitome of a therapeutic animal. She, “seemed to be the knowing one never showing rejection or criticism but blanket acceptance.” She charms the residents at The Pioneer Home, and even the people who don’t love animals cannot resist the infectious gregariousness that Pogo exudes. When Pogo meets Mabel, for example, she is rejected. However, Pogo recognizes Mabel’s loneliness and sadness and isn’t deterred. Pogo slowly engages Mabel until Mabel succumbs to her charms. Eventually, Mabel begins to reminisce about her life while petting Pogo, and she becomes happier and more at peace.

I award Pogo’s Tale 3 out of 4 stars. This is a lovely story about a special animal. Pogo’s positivity and selflessness are unwavering, and the way she comforts others is touching. Messages of strength and love make this an uplifting tribute to an exceptional dog. The only thing that I disliked about the piece is that there are some grammatical errors, which is why I deducted a point.

I think this book will appeal to a variety of readers. People who like heartwarming stories about the relationships between humans and canines will particularly enjoy the book. It will also appeal to non-fiction readers. However, people who don’t like dogs might not appreciate the story.

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Pogo's tale
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Ivana Tomaš · Post by **Ivana Tomaš** » 05 Jun 2019, 04:38

Just say the dog is in the story, and I'll read the book. I especially like Pogo's ability to comfort others.
Thank you for an amazing review!

Post by **kandscreeley** » 05 Jun 2019, 09:44

Pogo sounds like a fabulous dog. I love that she likes television. It really is amazing how much dogs can help us. This sounds like one to put on my list, despite the editing errors. Thanks!

Stephanie Elizabeth · Post by **Stephanie Elizabeth** » 05 Jun 2019, 11:13

Dogs are amazing and Pogo sounds like a pet anyone would be lucky to have. It is so cute that Pogo likes to watch TV and has good taste in shows! Thanks for the wonderful review!

Wyland · Post by **Wyland** » 06 Jun 2019, 08:55

I agree that pets have a way of making people realise their potential simply because they give undivided attention and care. Thanks for the review.

kdstrack · Post by **kdstrack** » 09 Jun 2019, 17:25

Many of the elderly rely on their dogs for companionship and safety. It is amazing what they can be trained to do. This sounds like a lovely, heartwarming story. Thanks for recommending this beautiful book!

Clemens Nickleby · Post by **Clemens Nickleby** » 09 Jun 2019, 18:06

My kids and I will probably thoroughly enjoy this book. Our dog and cats too, if we read it aloud together, which I think we should. I enjoyed reading the review for sure!

Scarlet Nicoll · Post by **Scarlet Nicoll** » 10 Jun 2019, 00:18

I did encounter Pogo before and it stayed in my heart. Reading your review still did the same again. Thank you for this heartfelt piece!

Letora · Post by **Letora** » 13 Jun 2019, 15:25

This sounds like such a heartwarming story. Thank you for reviewing!

Nisha Ward · Post by **Nisha Ward** » 13 Jun 2019, 19:34

This is so cute and adorable. I'm not a fan of dogs in real life but I love reading about situations like this. Thank you for highlighting this book!

Kyoks · Post by **Kyoks** » 14 Jun 2019, 03:24

Indeed a dog is the world's greatest human companion you would ever have. The book is really amazing, intriguing and interesting to enjoy reading more than one time. Your review is incredible.

Kyoks · Post by **Kyoks** » 14 Jun 2019, 03:30

It is true that dogs are humans greatest companion. The books is intriguing and interesting for one to read more than one times.l definitely love your review.

Julie Petitbon · Post by **Julie Petitbon** » 14 Jun 2019, 10:43

ivana7 wrote: ↑05 Jun 2019, 04:38 Just say the dog is in the story, and I'll read the book. I especially like Pogo's ability to comfort others.
Thank you for an amazing review!

I'm right there with you! As soon as I saw that sweet face on the cover, I knew I wanted to read the book. Pogo is an amazing animal!

Julie Petitbon · Post by **Julie Petitbon** » 21 Jun 2019, 20:41

kandscreeley wrote: ↑05 Jun 2019, 09:44 Pogo sounds like a fabulous dog. I love that she likes television. It really is amazing how much dogs can help us. This sounds like one to put on my list, despite the editing errors. Thanks!

Pogo is such a dynamic dog with a wonderful personality. I agree with you - the healing power of dogs is amazing. I hope you enjoy Pogo's story as much as I did!

Julie Petitbon · Post by **Julie Petitbon** » 21 Jun 2019, 20:44

Stephanie Elizabeth wrote: ↑05 Jun 2019, 11:13 Dogs are amazing and Pogo sounds like a pet anyone would be lucky to have. It is so cute that Pogo likes to watch TV and has good taste in shows! Thanks for the wonderful review!

The way that the author describes Pogo watching tv is hysterical. I also like his taste in shows. My dogs can't be bothered with Stephen Colbert.