Brillâ€[emoji]8482[/emoji]s memoir concerns her life near the end of her college years, a time when her cerebral palsy worsened and she began to struggle with everyday tasks. Learning about helper dogs trained to aid people with CP, Leigh applies and is matched with a big, lovable yellow Lab named Slugger. For nearly 10 years, he accompanies Leigh everywhere, helping her walk, picking up dropped pens, even turning on lights and opening heavy doors. With Sluggerâ€[emoji]8482[/emoji]s aid, Leigh gradually comes to accept and be able to talk about her disease and eventually finds love and a career. This touching memoir will warm the hearts of dog lovers everywhere; Slugger is the heart and soul of the book, and his dedication, devotion, and love make him an unforgettable character. While the writing is sometimes clunky and Leighâ€[emoji]8482[/emoji]s family is inexplicably absent, what remains is still irresistible: a sweet story about a woman and her dog. This canine version of Homerâ€[emoji]8482[/emoji]s Odyssey (2009) will appeal equally to readers interested in coping or helping others cope with disabilities. --Jessica Moyer
I'm looking forward to seeing what everyone thought of the book at the end of the month!