Official Review: The Nine Faces of Boo by Robert W. Harris

[Katherine E Wall]

[Following is the official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Nine Faces of Boo" by Robert W. Harris.]

The Nine Faces of Boo by Robert W. Harris is both touching and heartwarming. At first, I did not expect much from the book, assuming, since the author wrote it during the early stages of the grieving process, it would be at best self-indulgent, and at worst melodramatic. It was neither. Mr. Harris’ voice and sense of humor kept me enthralled throughout. While it did not hit the heights nor depths of a book like Marley and Me, it was engaging.

Mr. Harris’ unique perspective made this story particularly compelling. For most animal lovers, we have grown up with pets, and we often don’t go long without having one in our lives, but for this author, Boo was the first pet he ever had. We celebrate milestones with him, we have long forgotten. These milestones are as profound as falling in love with a puppy for the first time through giving a present to a dog for the first time and finally to grieving for a lost companion. It is this freshness, this awe and wonderment, which permeates the anecdotes, and allows us to experience these not only with Boo, Liz and the author, but also with our own pets both remembered and currently with us.

There is no story arc, no conflict, and resolution to this book. Instead, I felt like the author was sitting across from me, telling me stories of his life and journey with Boo. Occasionally, he would pass the baton on to Liz, and she would give her own perspective. Often, I wanted to share my own stories of my dog companions, or tell the author the behavior was perfectly natural. His unique writing voice invited me to participate in the dialogue, but, of course, that is impossible in this format. I can’t imagine any pet owner, but in particular a dog owner, who could read this, and not nod their head at one of the stories, and think, yes, that is just like when [insert own anecdote here].

During the reveal of the nine faces of Boo, one of which, I wish, along with the author, the dog never had to wear, we learn so much. We learn about the fun, playful and cute personality of the dog and the relationship the author shared with him. However, we learn much more. We learn about the author and Boo’s ‘mommy’, Liz. We begin to feel we know them all. We admire their relationships, their lifestyles, and their hearts. Most importantly, we learn about ourselves, and our own perceptions about the animals we share our lives with, and I doubt I will ever look at my own dog the same way again.

Finally, the author gives us an example of how to deal with the precious things we share our lives with, not only when they are with us, but also when we have to say good-bye. The process of creating something special to commemorate that life can be cathartic. It is a valuable concept, and something we should consider practicing regardless of the type of loss we may someday experience.

Granted, this book might not be for everyone, but I think those who read it with an open mind and more importantly, an open heart will benefit from its simple message of love, trust, and commitment. After all, these devoted friends are part of our lives, but for them, we are their whole world. Who can beat that kind of unconditional love? Thank you, Mr. Harris, Liz and Boo for reminding us of that.

I rate this book 3 out of 4 stars.

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Buy "The Nine Faces of Boo" on Amazon

[JenniferBoyce]

What a fantastic review!

This sounds like an interesting read and I might just check it out.

[Katherine E Wall]

Thanks, Jennifer.

I hope you enjoy it.

[Reading lady]

I have had this on my favourites list at the library for awhile now. I think it is time I sat down and read it.

An exceptional story told from a dog's point of view is "the Art of Racing in the Rain" I highly recommend you read it!

[Katherine E Wall]

I have had this on my favourites list at the library for awhile now. I think it is time I sat down and read it.

An exceptional story told from a dog's point of view is "the Art of Racing in the Rain" I highly recommend you read it!

Thank you for sharing this with me.

I will add it to my reading list.