Review: The Way of the Dog: The Memoirs of Eros, the Metaphysical Dog by Eva A. MacDonnell

The Way of the Dog: The Memoirs of Eros, the Metaphysical Dog by Eva A. MacDonnell is a refreshing story about Eros, a puppy new to this world and his experiences, told from his unique perspective. A surprisingly insightful read, MacDonnell’s book will make the reader think about their relationship with not just dogs, but all animals and humans alike. The innocence, wisdom, love, and instruction that resides within the pages of the book will shift how you look at the world.

MacDonnell paints a picture with the dialogue between the characters; when Eros is speaking to his mother, it is so vivid that you can almost hear him speaking to you. Even with its unique point of view, the narrative flows naturally, as if the reader is having a conversation instead of reading a book, which brings the book’s core message to the fore.

Throughout the book the relationship between Eros’ mother and all her puppies plays a strong role. It’s a relationship that any mother and child will recognize immediately – a mother wanting nothing but the best for her children and protecting them as they grow up and start out on their own, and a child wanting to do it their way and then realizing that all the fuss was coming from a place of love. From explaining what things are when he enters the world, to scolding him when needed, the love and concern for her pups resonates as the love that any parent has for their kids.

Eros passes on eleven lessons that every reader of this book should consider taking away with them into their every day lives, which works surprisingly well coming from a loving mother dog to her pups as they reach adolescence. Each lesson has universal import aimed at improving interaction with other people, and would truly make the world a better place if put into everyday action.

While not as probing and philosophical as the novel Ishmael, about a telepathic — and wise — gorilla, Eros has a lot of wisdom to impart about humanity’s treatment of animals, and each other. The book is more written a middle grade level, ala Animal Farm, though the puppy’s name is a strange choice in this regard, but there is much to be gleaned here for adults as well.

The book could be especially useful in helping readers of all ages to open up emotionally if they are more on the shy and quiet side. The lessons learned and taught by Eros in the pages have a gentle way of allowing for a dialogue with those who may not usually feel comfortable expressing themselves verbally. While some of the messages are more obvious than others, they are all sensible and inspiring. The book will remind readers that we are all in this world together, and when understanding, patience, and love are present, magical things can happen.

An inspiring mix of fiction and self-help, The Way of the Dog is full of humor and heart, with characters that come across as family members rather than just characters on the page, making this original and eye-opening book a must read.