A Dog and His Boy

A gripping wilderness adventure tale, a tragic sins of the father story, and a tender ode to friendship. T.F. Pruden's debut novel 'A Dog and His Boy' is these and more. The richly layered account transports the reader to a world too real to be imagined where life alternates between ironic humor and compelling tragedy. A poignant coming of age narrative, it confronts the gritty reality of a broken home and alcohol abuse with lyrical precision.To grow up in the back country of the Canadian northwest during the nineteen seventies is a trip only the hardy survive. With his father away on another binge Tommy Parker struggles to care for his younger brother and a sprawling ranch. His canine best friend Puppits is both hunting partner and confidant. With childhood lost he lives in fear of ever growing responsibility. The return of his father sets events in motion sure to change everything. Tommy will need something to hold onto if he's going to make it.Along the way he'll learn that some lessons are impossible to forget.****************************************This is a literary novel, meant for adults...Characters are multifaceted, insightful, and flawed, and the climax is devastating...For literary fiction light in tone, tactful, and balanced...The ending is tragic...A uniquely modern, pioneer-flavored tale of growing up in a harsh, wild environment under a father who cares, but doesn't know how to show it. - 4/5 Stars, Into The Writerlea****************************************The author is a master at detailed description...An excellent and very sad story on many levels...Should appeal to readers interested in stories about animals, particularly dogs; and those with an interest in human psychology. - 3.5/5 Stars, Julie's Book Reviews