I read this title a few months ago for the Readers' Advisory Nonfiction workshop and found it to be an absolutely splendid gem of a book.
A stirring blend of philosophy and reminiscence, Dog Years presents a poetic narrative of the author's relationship with his beloved retrievers, Arden and Beau. This slender volume gifts the reader with meditations on life and loss, acceptance and gratitude.
In the concluding chapter, as the aging Beau approaches the end of his life, Doty reflects that "Animal presences remain for me, as they have always been, a door toward feeling and understanding." In Dog Years, Doty opens that door to those who turn the pages of his generous memoir.
I would recommend this title to animal lovers, nature lovers and readers of meditative literary nonfiction. In many ways, Dog Years is a study in grief and could therefore be recommended to those seeking a reflective narrative on this topic. Dog Years also deals with the loss of a loved one from HIV/AIDS, as the author relates the death of his partner, Wally, from this disease.
Author Mark Doty is a noted poet, memoirist and college writing professor.
