South of Reality by A.I. Alexen

I must admit I had no idea what to expect when I accepted South of Reality for review. Was this a children’s book, some strange science fiction or a modern take on Animal Farm?

The truth is that is none of these. It is a charming and delightful read for all ages with some subtle messages to learn along the way like not pre-judging others.

I thoroughly enjoyed escaping into the world of the two dogs, Arky and Peyson, and the annoyingly typical cat, Tuxedo, as they attempt to make right a sad human situation.

Being a dog person I sided with Arky and Peyson and their frustrations with Tuxedo with his cat’s characteristic nonchalance and superciliousness. Along with Arky and Peyson I was equally surprised at the mission Tuxedo was on and how he draws them into it.

I smiled at the mental image of a cat using the computer keyboard and other human actions; worried when the rats were getting the upper hand and even wanted to wring the roosters neck at times (well, not literally)

When I look at my dog now I wonder – does she know and understand more than she is letting on? Is she using my computer at night?

I received this book in return for an honest review.

Living with Dingoes by Gill Ryhorchuk

In Living with Dingoes Ryhorchuk tells of the steep learning curve she and her family experienced not just in relation to dingoes but as city dwellers moving to the country.

She and her family accrue years of experience with dingoes and she tells of the funny, sad, frustrating and worrying times of owning a dingo.

It is written in an easy to read style where the narratives of dingoes and her other animals are beautifully descriptive and easily imagined.

Living with Dingoes gives greater insight and understanding of this beautiful Australian native animal. It clearly describes dingo behaviour and mannerisms and I enjoyed reading about the varying personalities of Gillian’s dingoes

This is a must reading for anyone considering owning a dingo. In fact it should be compulsory reading for anyone considering a dingo as a pet as they are definitely not suited to many people.

I feel the most important message in the book is: “There is nothing wrong with the temperaments of nine out of ten dingoes. It is the people who need to be educated.”

If you are dog, horse, donkey, mule or hinny lover there is also plenty in the book for you too.

This review is also available through my website www.pam.id.au

My rating 4*