Starting with Max

February 15, 2015

In the author's first book in English, she brings a new perspective to the dog memoir. Growing up in Hong Kong, Ying was not overly fond of dogs as they weren't normally kept as pets there. As the narrative begins, the author and her family move to Australia from Hong Kong. With the move, Ying promises her daughter and German husband a pet for their new home. Expecting a few months to settle in before adopting a shelter animal, she is surprised when after only three weeks the family brings home a dog. Although hesitant to welcome Max into their lives, Ying comes to love the dog and even become his day-to-day companion. Along with the narrative of Max's adoption and integration into the family, the author discusses canine behavior and human-animal relationships. Color photos of Max bring the endearing story to life. VERDICT This book is a must-read for pet lovers, especially dog lovers and fans of John Grogan's Marley and Me.--Lacy S. Wolfe, Ouachita Baptist Univ. Lib., Arkadelphia, AR

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