Dogs Who Grew Me: A Tribute to the Six Dogs Who Taught Me What Really Matters in Life »

Ann Pregosin is a frequent contributor to animal and general interest magazines including Dogs, Ladies Circle, Ladies Home Journal, and Working Woman. For Fox News Channel's "Pet News," she was the expert on medical, training, and breed specific issues. She is the author of How Not to Kill Your Houseplants. Ms. Pregosin lives with her family and two dogs in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

A loving tribute to six dogs who taught a woman what is most important in life - a must-have for all dog and animal lovers.

Katherine Gillen - KLIATT

This is a memoir of a life spent with six dogs, spanning from childhood through middle age, but it is also an extended essay on the uniqueness of each animal. There is Moppet, the cocker spaniel who comforted an awkward little girl; Della the bighearted Great Dane, who both doted on and defended her youthful mistress; Timber, the quarter-wolf hybrid who amazed everyone who saw her; Boo the Rottweiler, who unfortunately lived up to his breed's dangerous potential; the self-absorbed Miss Daisy, a cocker spaniel bought for the author's daughter; and lastly Tyler, the all-loving, highly intelligent Bernese Mountain Dog who continues to share life with Pregosin and her family. Pregosin writes with experience, expressing her patience and love for all her animal companions (including a couple of cats). Her anecdotes will ring true for anyone who has ever owned a dog or cat. Both the humorous and exasperating situations contribute to the life lessons that Pregosin learns over the years. Each dog's traits (including those not "typical" for the breed) are detailed in a manner that will appeal to all animal lovers; each dog's passing will likely bring tears of empathy. A nice addition to the animal section of any library. KLIATT Codes: SA—Recommended for senior high school students, advanced students, and adults. 2002, Capital Books (22841 Quicksilver Drive, Sterling, VA 20166), 205p., Ages 15 to adult.