Description: "What happens when the Zusak family opens their home to three big, wild, street-hardened dogs--Reuben, more wolf than hound; Archer, blond, beautiful, destructive; and the rancorously smiling Frosty, who walks like a rolling thunderstorm? The answer can only be chaos: there are street fights, park fights, public shamings, property damages, injuries, hospital visits, wellness checks, pure comedy, shocking tragedy, and carnage that must be read to be believed. ... [This is a] memoir about the human need for both connection and disorder, a love letter to the animals who bring hilarity and beauty--but also the visceral truth of the natural world--straight to our doors and into our lives and change us forever"--
Brief description:
Markus Zusak is the author of six novels, including Bridge of Clay, I Am the Messenger, and The Book Thief--one of the most loved books of the twenty-first century and a New York Times bestseller for more than a decade. His work has been translated into more than fifty languages and been awarded numerous honors around the world, ranging from literary prizes to bookseller and readers' choice awards. His books have also been adapted for film, television, and theater. He was born in Sydney and still lives there with his wife, two children, and the last dog standing in a once thriving household of animals. Three Wild Dogs (and the Truth) is his first book of nonfiction.
Review Quotes:
"A self-deprecating tale of dog-ownership mayhem that is sure to win over many a reader." - Kirkus
"Heartrending...With a soft heart and a fluid pen, Zusak delivers an elegy for three misfit creatures that will resonate even with those who've never picked up a leash." - Publishers Weekly
"Zusak's garrulous style gives appropriate spotlight to his furry subjects (a few cats are involved too), celebrating their indomitable spirits in a convivial, all-but-exasperated tone. [His] innate humor jostles readers throughout, creating a wholly different page-turning experience from the epic nature of his fiction. Dog lovers will surely find a lot to chew on here as Zusak mines for the truth the title intimates that those touched by a dog will all agree: we are changed for having known them." - Booklist (starred review)
"Three Wild Dogs (and the Truth) will be enjoyed by readers of the best dog tales, such as The Art of Racing in the Rain, for its ability to evoke both the aggravation and deep love that dogs foster in those who build their lives around these creatures." - BookPage
"Humorous and sage. Zusak is offering his many readers--and pet lovers perhaps new to his work--a view of what goes on behind the scenes in the household of a dedicated writer. This is punctuated by a lively look at how pets can and do affect the dynamics of family, neighborhood and the human heart." - BookReporter
"Three Wild Dogs (and the truth) joins that long tradition of dog-books and glows with painful, joyful realities that every dog-person will feel in their bones. None of those dog-people should miss this book." - Open Letters Review
"Three Wild Dogs (and the Truth) is like adopting a rescue dog--it's messy, it's unpredictable, but ultimately, it's incredibly rewarding. Zusak's raw honesty and self-deprecating humor make for a read that's both entertaining and emotionally resonant." - BookClub