Customer Reviews:
Showing reviews 56-60 of 74
 One of the worst books I have ever read about animals. October 15, 1998
3 out of 9 found this review helpful
This book was not about dogs and their owners, but about this one poor woman and the daily anxieties she is having after giving up the drink. I would not recommend it for anyone.
A psycological portrait of a person who also has a dog October 8, 1998
3 out of 7 found this review helpful
This is one of the dullest books ever. Ms Knapp must be in therapy daily. She forever tells of her phobias,problems and concers. Somewhere there is a dog. So little is said about the dog. Its all about her and this weird relationship with a dog. The book is a true waste.Why did she write this book except to talk about her anxieties>Probably worst book of the year.who would care....
 I couldn't put this down September 29, 1998
caroberts@nelsonlib.org.nz (Nelson, New Zealand)
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
I work in a library and suggested this book for purchase. Wow am I glad I did! What a relief to read of not just one other person who feels the way I do about my dogs but lots of other people. I sat nodding my head in agreement and saying "Yes" out loud on numerous occasions. It has clarified and validated my thoughts on my doggy family. I agree with other comments that non-doggy people would not appreciate the book. That's their loss!
Displacing Freud through canine bliss. September 29, 1998
sue@sonnet-financial.com (Boston, MA)
Caroline Knapp has, again, demonstrated her unique ability to merge emotions with practicality, the end result of which is a poignant, fun and honest narrative of her life with her dog, Lucille. Knapp captures and presents the essence of "falling in love" with her dog, from the initial questions about commitment, to giving in, to her happiness being with Lucille, to falling "madly" and forever in love with her. Knapp cleverly reveals the psychotherapeutic fabric of the dog/human bond. I would add, however, that her observations apply not just to the canine breed. Having become a recent cat owner, I share Caroline's experiences of comfort, company (without intrusion), changing and broadening of social circles, and the sheer joy from just looking at these beautiful, pure creatures. Moreover, from my perspective, projection doesn't adequately describe the psychotherapeutic feature of the dog/human relationship. Rather, these companion animals enable us to go one step further. We can project our emotions on to the animal AND we can then comfort the animal in ways that satisfy our own inner longings for comfort. Exit Freud. Knapp provides a great read and lots of genuine laughter!
 A must for dog lovers September 18, 1998
This is a great book for anyone who has dogs or who is thinking about having dogs. When Ms. Knapp talks about dog toys strewn about the living room floor, and dog beds where coffee tables typically are, you can feel relief that you're not the only one who obsesses. More importantly, she helps you understand why your relationship with your dog can seem so strong - and why that's okay. Her obsession can help you understand how your own obsessions develop and why they need to be understood.
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