Pawprints On Our Hearts

As a biography, it gets 3 stars; as a book about dogs only 2 stars. I actually enjoyed the memoir, seeing many parallels with my own life (TW: bullying, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and attempt, abortion, death of pets). In many ways, reading about the author's struggles and redemption helped me see my past, so far behind now, from a new perspective. I am at a much better place in my life now, and I'm glad the author is as well. (Also, omg Halo 2 was so good!!)

Now, as a book about dogs, I can't give it more than 2 stars. The author grew up with dogs brought by her mom, either rescue or given by a friend. These moments were pure love and devotion to the dogs, and showed how life changing they have been on the author's life, confidence, and self-respect.

The issue about this book is when the author grows old and decides to get dogs on his own. I'm not going to go into details, but if you want to see the struggles that come from getting unhealthy, unsocialized, and underage dogs from puppy mills, read this book. Or about finding an injured puppy in the streets and giving it up for free to a stranger from Facebook without urgently bringing the pup to the vet. (TW: the story doesn't end well for this pup).

Additional TW: photo of the family dog after being humanely euthanized, and photo of a rescued dog with hundreds of cigarette burns.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

When I first received Pawprints on Our Hearts, I was expecting a book about our furry companions and the impact they can have on our hearts and in our lives. This is that, and so much more.

What an emotional journey, one in which I swore I wasn't going to cry, but of course I did. The author doesn't just share his experiences with the animals that helped shape who he is today, he bares his deepest fears and his darkest moments. There is a part in his parents' bedroom...when Lexi burst in and saves him...my heart broke and yet at the same time was full. What an amazing puppy.

I am Korean and Irish and while I didn't experience all this author has, I could relate to so much he went through. Growing up is already hard, but growing up amongst hate and bullying...whew. Everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect, including our furry friends.

There is so much hope, courage and love poured into these pages and I am so thankful this found its way to me. It's one of my 2022 favorites and one I highly recommend.

I sincerely appreciate the author for the review copy. All opinions expressed herein are my own.