A Dog's Purpose by Bruce W. Cameron

Summary (from goodreads): This is the remarkable story of one endearing dog's search for his purpose over the course of several lives. More than just another charming dog story, this touches on the universal quest for an answer to life's most basic question: Why are we here?

Surprised to find himself reborn as a rambunctious golden haired puppy after a tragically short life as a stray mutt, Bailey's search for his new life's meaning leads him into the loving arms of 8 year old Ethan. During their countless adventures Bailey joyously discovers how to be a good dog. But this life as a beloved family pet is not the end of Bailey's journey. Reborn as a puppy yet again, Bailey wonders, will he ever find his purpose?

Heartwarming, insightful, and often laugh out loud funny, this book is not only the emotional and hilarious story of a dog's many lives, but also a dog's eye commentary on human relationships and the unbreakable bonds between man and man's best friend. This story teaches us that love never dies, that our true friends are always with us, and that every creature on earth is born with a purpose.

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Edition Read: Overdrive from local library
Where to buy: kobo, google play, amazon, nook

Bit o Background: I made a literary faux pas* and saw the movie first.
*Or should I say faux paw. You knew it was coming, I had to go there.

Thoughts:

Cry-fest: party of me... and this book.

Okay, okay, it's not all crying. (but it is a lot.)

This is very much a book of feels. I knew it going in and it still hit me harder than I thought. It's sweet, funny, charming, sad, and even upsetting at times. Which is pretty damned impressive for a (not even)300 page book.

It made me miss every pet I've ever loved and I just wanted to run to the nearest shelter to adopt a new furry creature.
(Rest assured, vigilante animal lovers, I did not. I will one day, but I'm not in a position to do so right now.)

Verdict: 

Highly recommended, especially if you love animals. *^-^*

Movie Quibble: I have no idea why the movie chose to handle the police dog story line the way it did. It should have been wrapped up or excluded altogether. (They did invent an adorable extra life for the movie, so I don't understand what they were thinking with Ellie.)

Credits:
Gif from giphy.com
Tobias crying in the shower ©the people who own Arrested Development.
Book cover taken from goodreads and resized by me to 200px width