Marley & Me: Life and Love with the World's Worst Dog [Large Print]

I stumbled upon this book in the bookstore and was hesitant in buying it. Afterall, what kind of book is this for a mid 40's sports junkie? I've got to tell you, Marley & Me is exactly what I needed. It's about an adventure with mans best friend -- his dog and the development of life itself. From getting married, to choosing a puppy, to having kids, to career changes to watching your "best friend" get old. Marley & Me touches on all of this with the dog being the subject. Marley & Me is a fun and fast reading novel. It is easy to read and expertly captures the emotions of the dog owners. If you looking for some light reading reading this holiday season and a book guaranteed to put a smile on your face and possibly a tear in your eye -- then read Marley & Me. It surely makes me appreciate my two cocker spaniels that much more.

Don't ever confuse Lassie with Marley. Minding was something Marley couldn't quite manage - this is despite obedience school and concerted efforts by his adoptive parents, John and Jenny. Marley was a Lab with few of a Labrador Retriever with few of a Lab's characteristics. He was 97 pounds of almost non-stop accidents waiting to happen. Actually, John and Jenny wouldn't have had him any other way nor would we. His heart was huge and his love boundless despite his lack of social graces (sniffing crotches is definitely unacceptable as is swallowing costly uneatable items).

In retrospect, John can remember Jenny's reasoning - they were newly married and she thought having a puppy would be good training to caring for children when they came along. He writes, "If Jenny really only wanted a dog to hone her parenting skills, I would have tried to talk her off the ledge and maybe placate her with a goldfish."

They both had full-time jobs and knew that a dog was a large responsibility. But, they both also had happy memories of having a dog when they were children. So, their decision was made and Marley was their pick of the wriggling, furry litter. Little did they know. (Even though upon first meeting Marley all but chewed his way through John's watchband.)

"Marley & Me" is so much more than the story of a lovable canine, it's the story of a family - how they grew together, their celebrations and their griefs. It's also a tale sure to provoke both laughter and tears.

Don't miss it, especially as read by the author.

- Gail Cooke

I just finished Marley and Me last night. I picked it up last weekend at Barnes & Noble as I was walking near the magazines. The adorable photo on the cover caught my eye....they had a display of the book out in the open. Being an avid animal and dog lover, I couldn't pass it up.

Needless to say, I devoured the book in two days. I loved it. To me it was so refreshing to see such commitment in another dog owner. I have always believed that when you adopt a pet it should be part of the family, and it is a lifelong commitment. You don't give up and get rid of them, just because of hard times or problems.

I applaud Mr. Grogan, and his family, for being the kind of people who love and care for their dog friends and for writing such a heartfelt tribute to his pal, Marley. Pets ask for so little and return so much.

I have had many dogs and I always get a kick out of the commercial on TV for a new ziplock dogfood bag for a certain chow...they use the expression "Dogs Rule". How perfect. There is nothing quite like having a dog, whether they have impeccable manners or not.

I laughed and I cried and I understood everything that Mr. Grogan had to say. I also live in Florida so I felt a special connection to the Grogans when they were speaking of the culture here and the thunderstorms--and how dogs hate them.

All in all, Mr. Grogan's writing is clear and interesting and down to earth. I couldn't put the book down. It is a joy.

I even went so far and to visit the website he has listed in the book. There was an email address to write to him, which I did, and I was absolutely amazed when Mr. Grogan wrote back to me three hours later to thank me for my nice comments.

Do yourself a favor and read the book.....you'll close it in the end and your heart will feel like it is too large to fit inside your chest.

I bought this book really not knowing anything about it, but loved the title. I can honestly say this is one of the best books I have ever read, anyone who is a dog lover I am confident will agree. I laughed, I was touched, and I cried, oh boy did I cry!! I just related to this true story in a way I have never related to a book before, and I felt as though I had become part of the Grogan family in some small way. It is an easy read, but very entertaining, and most enjoyable.

"Marley & Me" brings home the reality of expanding your human family with a canine. The same as bringing home a newborn, it's more work than you may think. John Grogan gives the reader an intimate look at his beloved dog's dark side and at his family's unlimited love for this destructive pooch. Dog lovers will understand the dedication and patience it takes and this story will have you laughing out loud. It's also an excellent start for anyone thinking of getting their first pup. You should see all the bad before falling in love with that sleepy little fur ball. They grow fast and furious and getting a glimpse of the end result might save those with less stamina than John Grogan, a trip to the pound.