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BOOK REVIEWS
Marley and Me
by John Grogan
Harper Collins (2005)
-- reviewed by Courtney Bowerman
Fall in Love with Marley
Not every dog is Lassie. John Grogan proves this point in his semi-autobiographical novel, Marley and Me. Grogan, a columnist for the Philadelphia Inquirer, originally started this work two years ago as a farewell column for his departed dog, but the tribute was so well-received that his short piece became a 291-page book.
As Marley and Me begins, Grogan and his wife decide to adopt a puppy, seeing it as an opportunity to practice responsibility for a child. They brought home an adorable, rambunctious Labrador puppy, which they name Marley. No, he wasn’t named after the Dickens’ character in A Christmas Carol, but rather the singer Bob Marley. The Grogans were amused to see that Marley’s wiggly movements seemed to live up to his namesake’s reggae style.
However, Marley proved to be more than a handful as he grew into a huge, hyperactive dog. Think your pet is misbehaved? Marley was known for stealing food off plates, crashing through walls, getting expelled from obedience school and destroying furniture. He also ate everything within his reach: combs, stereo covers, used Kleenexes, expensive jewelry, dirty diapers (don’t ask), plastic army men…Marley’s wiggles were soon recognized as a tell-tale clue that he had something in his mouth (i.e. the “Marley Mambo”).
I couldn’t stop laughing as I read each hilarious incident. And like other readers, I couldn’t help falling in love with Marley. He was a sweet dog with many redeeming qualities. He provided comfort to his owners after a tragic miscarriage. He was the playmate and protector to their children. He wasn’t well-behaved, but he was as loyal and friendly as any other dog in the world.
You don’t have to be a dog lover to enjoy this novel. In fact, it’s impossible not to be moved by the book. It manages to be comic and poignant at the same time. Sadly, like almost every other story involving a dog, it ends with Marley’s inevitable passing. Still, Grogan’s loving memoirs of his furry friend ensure that Marley’s memory will be as cherished and celebrated for years to come.
For more about Marley, visit Grogan’s website: www.marleyandme.com
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