Saving Sadie
| February 7, 2018 | Posted by admin under Animals, Autobiography, Biography, Memoir |
Written by Joal Derse Dauer (with Elizabeth Ridley)
Published by Citadel Press – Kensington Publishing Corp.
Distributed by Penguin Random House Canada
Reviewed by Elspeth Hennigar
Publication date: October 2017
Review posted on: February 7, 2018
“Saving Sadie” chronicles Joal’s journey as she helps heal Sadie, a dog who has been broken in both body and spirit.
Sadie’s start in life was tragic, shown only cruelty and suffering at the hands of those who should have protected her. Despite this, she was able to forgive and in turn give hope to others. She is living proof that the wounds of the body and spirit can heal if given time, understanding, and love.
As an animal lover, and “mom” to three rescue fur-babies, I had high hopes for this book. Although Sadie herself is the embodiment of resilience and patience, I found very little inspiration in this story. It is commendable that Joal was able to help Sadie, a feat that most – no matter how much they wished – would lack the resources to do. However, Joal’s account felt very self-congratulatory and out of touch with the reality of the situation. Even after being told by numerous veterinarians the severity of Sadie’s injuries, she still seems to take it as a personal affront when Sadie doesn’t reach the arbitrary milestones she sets for her. Joal’s shock at having to wash Sadie in her bathtub, as oppose to the kiddie pool outside, was disconcerting coming from someone who professes to be an animal lover. I found it upsetting when she lied to a psychologist in order to make Sadie an emotional support animal, something that takes away the validity of emotional support and therapy animal certification.
There was too much emphasis on the seemingly endless promotional events and media coverage the dog was subjected to, and not enough on Sadie herself. Sadie felt secondary to the story of Joal. Although Sadie can’t walk she is still whole and perfect just as she is; something that takes Joal far too long to see.
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For more information about this book or to learn how to get your very own copy, visit the publisher’s website here.
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