Marley and Me by John Grogan

While reading this book, I wanted to run out and get a dog. I have wanted a dog for some time, but my schedule is too crazy to impose on an attention-needing creature. My hubby and I keep saying, one day, we'll get a cute little pug or an adorable little Westie, but the reality of the amount of work puppies require keeps the plans at bay. Marley and Me reinforces the importance of dog-owner commitment. Marley was terrible and wonderful all at once. Who could love a big lab who launches himself at everyone, sloshes saliva on every surface, and tries to eat everything in sight? Then again, who can't love a big dog who just wants to love you - unconditionally! Grogan takes us on an adventure from selecting months old Marley from a breeder's farm through raising three kids and a feisty, strong dog (the only dog to be expelled from obedience school - no less) to the heartbreaking reality of doggie old age. A great book, for me, triggers a reaction. Whether the reaction is that I love the book or I hate the book, I am impressed with how the author made me care enough to react to it. With Marley, I laughed out loud and I held back tears. Everyone should read Marley and Me.