Book Review – The Dog Thief: And Other Jill Kearney Stories
It is often difficult to describe the intricate relationships between animals and their humans. In her book, “The Dog Thief: And Other Stories,” Jill Kearney doesn’t have that problem, offering a poignant collection of tales that pull at your heart and leave footprints that aren’t likely to fade when the game is over. reading.
Drawing inspiration from her own experiences working as a dog sitter and rescuer, Kearney weaves the narratives of people forgotten or displaced by society, and the animals who place their trust in them. In his own words, “I am interested in the lives of people who feel that no one else cares.” This statement really echoes throughout the book.
The collection begins with the homonymous novel, The dog thief, in which the residents of an oppressed community come together to rescue a pair of dogs from their neglected owner. Donald, the owner of the dogs, actually inherits the dogs after the death of his mother and later, his sister. Donald is lazy and negligent with dogs, but one gets the impression that he feels obligated to have them. However, your protection of dogs contradicts any consideration you have for their well-being, which calls into question your mental capacity, at least for this reader. The author also weaves fascinating subplots into the story as we follow Donald’s neighbors in their efforts to help. In dealing with injustices and the confines of their environment, Elizabeth, Blacksnake, The One-Eyed Woman, and others provide intriguing insights into the complex issues they encounter as they learn firsthand how seemingly insignificant acts can make a difference in the world.
The tales that follow the novel are equally captivating, each striking an inner chord, prompting the need to pause for contemplation before moving on to the next. Some of the characters appealed to me so much and the ways that I could feel what they were feeling and going through, in fact I read several of the stories twice.
Kearney’s writing is passionate, straightforward, and direct. Forgoing the need to placate the reader with a sweetened narrative, his voice and a certain frankness tell him what they are, with a wit and freshness that is as charming and endearing as it is haunting and uncomfortable. Seriously, there is no way one can help but be moved by these stories. Some of the most insignificant environments, places that I could never have imagined, became clear and distinct in my mind through the vivid and rich descriptions presented by the author.
Heartbreak, helplessness, hope and inspiration: these words only hint at the variety of sensations that readers will feel in these pages. “The Dog Thief: And Other Stories” by Jill Kearney is a book that I highly recommend. Pet and human advocates will have a hard time putting this book down, as Kearney offers deep insight into what really matters.
