I love this book for two reasons. Well more than two reasons but I'm just listing two. First it is a wonderful collection of dog stories, those kind that fill you with love, make you smile, and some will break your heart. We've all been there. Rescue dogs are the best. Who saved who? I currently have five Chihuahuas all from my local shelters, older dogs that needed a home as much as I needed them. Over the course of fifteen years since I became a widow, rescue dogs have mended my heart and brought me joy beyond words. First they were bigger dogs, but as I aged I needed smaller dogs I could pick up. I will admit Chihuahuas while small are a mafia when in numbers and there is never a dull moment in my house. The second reason I love this book is that I have a story in it, too! Miss April in Paris, a hunting dog that joined my pack in 2010 and sadly left me a few years ago. Carmen was so gracious to include April's story. I can't recommend this book enough for dog lovers and actually for just the great writing in it. Happy stories and sad stories but owning a dog is full of joy and pain as they never live long enough.
“I Chose You” is organized into sections titled “We Are Family,” “Rescue Me,” “Smile,” "You Are So Beautiful,” “Somebody to Love,” "What I Did for Love,” “Something Good,” "Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive,” “Tears in Heaven,” “Where You Lead," and “Top Six Reasons to Adopt a Rescue Dog.”
If you missed Carmen's initial interview on The Muffin that kicked off her blog tour link here and read all the wonderful things she has to say plus links to future stops. An amazing women with a huge heart.
About the author Carmen Leal
Carmen Leal is a storyteller and the author of multiple books, articles, devotionals, and human-interest stories. Carmen relocated from Hawaii to Oshkosh, yes, there is a story behind the move, and has become an awesome dog mom. Carmen and her husband have become reluctant gardeners and know a crazy amount about Wisconsin weeds. She is the mother of two sons, two incredible grandsons, and Coconut, the best imperfectly perfect rescue dog in the world.
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