Assessment:
Idea: Frey's River Love is a story of rescue - the woman rescuing the dog, and the dog rescuing the woman, both forever having a positive impact on each other’s lives. This is a lovely, gentle, uplifting book that is written with humor, intelligence and a lot of heart
Prose/Style: Frey writes simply, but with an eloquence born of a deep love of her subject - Sheldon, the wandering, terrified Sheltie who strays into her arms and heart. Her spare, yet lyrical prose effectively celebrates her profound bond with her beloved pet, and with nature itself.
Originality: If you're a dog lover who has been hankering for something in the spirit of James Herriot's books - combining great tenderness, an awe of the wondrous beauty of the natural world, and a fierce determination to advocate for any animal that needs a champion and a nurturer - this book will suit you well. While there are a lot of dog books out there, this is one of the best.
Character Development/Execution: Frey shows us her own heart as she describes the endless patience it took to allow this tiny, terrified canine to reach the stage of trust he needed to surrender himself into her home and her keeping. Told with grace and candor, the journey she and Sheldon take is one well worth accompanying them on.
Blurb: A lovely, gentle, uplifting book written with humor, intelligence and a lot of heart. If you're looking for an author who can translate what dogs do for our souls onto the printed page, this book is for you.
Date Submitted: January 15, 2021
