About the Book
Tracy Stopler, author of the award-winning novel, The Ropes That Bind, has written another thought-provoking novel, but this time it's a tale revealed as only two dog siblings could tell it. Javi, an eleven-year-old shih tzu, teaches us about the importance of friendship and the challenges of change. His diary captures the ups and downs of being a dog with a dream. The story, also shared by his baby sister, Binah, draws a relatable picture of special friends living in the suburbs, and the joys, sorrows, and strengths that unite them. Both dogs and humans are seen through a variety of lenses, but only one dog can bring everything into focus.
What Readers are Saying
"So charming. Although this story has an adult theme, I can still imagine someday reading it to my grandchildren." Bret Witter, co-author of the New York Times bestseller, Dewey
"Tracy Stopler brings us the highs, the lows, the smells, the accidents, the love, and the losses, the entire silent opera of a dog's inner life." Ellis Weiner, author of How to Raise a Jewish Dog
"Tracy Stopler has written a compassionate, entertaining, and thought-provoking novel that pulled at my heartstrings. The genre for this novel is animal fiction, with a touch of fantasy, and a dash of philosophy. This is an adult book that kids can borrow, and if your dog wants to listen, that's even better. This reminds me of
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein, where we hear the dog's point of view. I would highly recommend this thought-provoking novel that made me both laugh and cry. I'm hoping for a sequel."
Linda Zagon, Linda's Book Obsessions Review What Characters in the Story are Saying
"While I was discovering my true self, my best self, my dream transformed into reality. We may be different breeds, but through God's eyes we are all equal. I know this because He told me so." Javi, 11-year-old Shih Tzu
"FIVE STARS for my brother Javi's incredible memoir. Javi is a role model for the dog community, reminding us all how we're here to help each other. Javi's not only my brother; he's also my superhero." Binah, 3-year-old Havanese
"My best friend, Binah, discovers her brother Javi's diary. It's filled with educational and inspirational messages. Thank you, Javi." Daisy, 2-year-old Havachon
"Javi's memoir captures both the human's and dog's heart from the day he is born to the day he is reborn. Although I would have liked to read more about me, it leaves me hopeful for a sequel." Chloe, 1-year-old Tibetan Terrier
"Socks off to Javi and Binah for this artful tale that answers so many life questions except who's Tracy Stopler and why is her name on the cover of this book?"Cooper, 2-year-old Cockapoo
"Javi is a special soul. You will laugh and cry as you discover your own strengths to overcome life's most challenging circumstances. This story will inspire you to rescue a dog or two." Dr. Noah, Veterinarian
"Javi weaves a hypnotic, fairy tale that's strong enough to transform darkness into light." Tali
"There are no words in any language to describe the love between a dog and his human. If only humans knew with certainty that their beloved best friends remain with them always in some way, in some form, for their existence here on Earth. I believe that now." Javier
A Message from the Author
This is my love story to Javi and Binah. If you love animals, especially dogs, you'll understand.
"In all great fairy tales there's always a plotline where some dog goes beyond his perceived limitations. You don't have to be a superhero in order for your dreams to come true. You just need the courage to break free from your comfort zone. It's the only road to happily ever after."
